The hyacinth macaw (Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus) is a parrot native to central and eastern South America. With its stunning cobalt blue plumage, this is the largest macaw and the largest flying parrot species in the world. But beyond its beauty, the hyacinth macaw holds special meaning for the cultures and ecosystems of its native habitat. The hyacinth macaw has a long history intertwined with human societies in South America. Indigenous tribes have traditionally used its feathers for ceremonial purposes. Its existence has also been threatened more recently by habitat loss and poaching. As a result, the hyacinth macaw can represent man’s…
Author: Megan Holzman
The answer to the question “What kind of bird runs from the waves?” depends on the specific context and location being considered. Generally, shorebirds and wading birds that feed along coastlines will run away from incoming waves to avoid being swept out to sea or drowned by rising tides. Some examples of birds that exhibit this behavior include sandpipers, plovers, oystercatchers, avocets, stilts, and certain species of gulls and terns. The urge to flee from oncoming waves is an innate instinct in these birds that helps them survive along dynamic shorelines. Shorebird Species that Flee from Waves Some specific examples…
Thistle is a flowering plant that produces dense clusters of small, prickly flowers. Many species of birds are attracted to the seeds of thistle as a food source. Here are some of the most common birds that enjoy feasting on thistle: Goldfinches Goldfinches are one of the birds most strongly associated with eating thistle seeds. Their sharp, pointed beaks allow them to easily extract the small seeds from the thistle head. Goldfinches flock to fields and areas with thistle growth and will cling to the plants while they eat. The American goldfinch and lesser goldfinch are two species attracted to…
When building a birdhouse for swifts, one of the most important considerations is the size of the entrance hole. This will determine what species can enter and nest in the box. For swifts specifically, the recommended entrance hole diameter is 1-1.5 inches. Why is the hole size important? The size of the entrance hole is crucial because it needs to be large enough for the target species to fit through, but small enough to exclude predators and non-target bird species. If the hole is too large, larger birds may take over the nest box or predators like raccoons may be…
Monogamy, meaning mating for life with a single partner, is rare in the animal kingdom. Only about 3% to 5% of mammal species are known to form lifelong pair bonds. However, monogamous mating systems are more common among birds. Over 90% of bird species are monogamous, at least socially if not sexually. This means they form pair bonds and cooperate in raising young, even if they occasionally seek extra-pair copulations. There are many theories for why monogamy evolved in birds, and the answer may be different for different species. But in general, monogamy is thought to have evolved because of…
Partridges are a type of gamebird that can make a fun and rewarding addition to a backyard flock. While partridges do have some specific care requirements, they are generally quite hardy birds that are well-suited for beginner backyard chicken keepers. Here are some key things to know about raising partridges. Housing Requirements Partridges need an enclosed coop or housing structure to keep them safe from predators at night. A coop should have the following features: Predator-proof construction (1/2 inch hardware cloth) Ventilation (windows, vents, etc.) Roosting bars Nest boxes (one per every 2-3 hens) Easy access for cleaning Provide each…
The saltmarsh sparrow is a small bird that lives in coastal salt marshes along the Atlantic Coast of the United States. This sparrow gets its name from its preferred habitat – salt marshes. Saltmarshes are coastal wetlands that form in shallow, protected areas along coastlines. They are flooded and drained by the tides and consist of salt-tolerant grasses, herbs, and low shrubs. Saltmarsh sparrows rely on these marshes for nesting, feeding, and shelter. But where exactly are saltmarsh sparrows found along the Atlantic Coast? Range and Distribution The breeding range of the saltmarsh sparrow stretches from Maine to Virginia, with…
The Ivory-billed Woodpecker is one of the most elusive and sought-after birds in North America. This large woodpecker was once widespread across the southeastern United States but declined dramatically in the early 20th century due to habitat loss. By the 1940s, the Ivory-billed Woodpecker was believed to be extinct. However, there have been scattered sightings of the bird over the past few decades that have sparked hope that a few individuals may still persist in remote swamp forests. Why is reporting sightings important? Due to its rarity, any potential sighting of an Ivory-billed Woodpecker needs to be thoroughly documented and…
The little blue heron (Egretta caerulea) is a small heron species found in coastal areas of North America, Central America, the Caribbean, and South America. Their scientific name means “little blue egret”. Little blue herons measure 61–76 cm (24–30 in) in length, with a wingspan of 88–106 cm (35–42 in). Adults have entirely blue-gray plumage, a purplish-maroon neck, and greenish-yellow legs. Immature little blue herons are white and can be confused with other white heron species like egrets. Little blue herons nest colonially in trees and mangroves, often with other heron species. Their diet consists mainly of small fish, frogs,…
House finch eye disease, also known as mycoplasmal conjunctivitis, is a common bacterial infection that affects house finches in North America. The disease causes swelling, irritation and crusty discharge around the eyes of infected birds. While house finch eye disease can be devastating, there are ways for birds to recover if treated properly. What causes house finch eye disease? House finch eye disease is caused by the bacterium Mycoplasma gallisepticum. This bacterium spreads easily between house finches when they come into close contact at bird feeders, birdbaths or other congregating areas. The bacteria causes conjunctivitis, an inflammation of the inner…