It is a popular claim that some species of birds clean the teeth of crocodiles in the wild. This claim has been circulating for many years, but is it really true? Let’s take a look at the evidence behind this fascinating behavior between two very different types of animals. The Claim The basic claim is that small birds called “crocodile birds” will sit in the open mouths of crocodiles and pick food scraps from their teeth. Some sources specify the Egyptian plover as the bird doing this tooth cleaning. The supposed motivation is that the birds get an easy meal…
Author: Alan Hernbroth
The Black Phoebe (Sayornis nigricans) is a small passerine bird that breeds in western North America. It is a flycatcher that often nests around human habitats. Black Phoebes can be found across much of western North America, ranging from southern British Columbia in Canada to central Mexico. They are most abundant in California and the southwestern United States. Geographic Range The Black Phoebe has a large geographic range spanning much of western North America. Their breeding range extends north to southern British Columbia, east to western Montana, Wyoming and Colorado, and south to central Mexico. The species winters as far…
Magnificent frigatebirds are large, black seabirds known for their huge wingspans and courtship displays. Here are quick answers to some common questions about their mating behaviors: Do magnificent frigatebirds mate for life? No, magnificent frigatebirds do not mate for life. They form seasonal pair bonds that last long enough to mate and raise a single chick, but the bonds break up after that. How do magnificent frigatebirds find mates? Male magnificent frigatebirds perform elaborate courtship displays to attract females. They inflate their striking red throat pouches to enormous sizes, rattle their bills, and spread their wings to show off their…
Birds make a variety of vocalizations for different purposes, including warning calls that may serve to alert other birds to danger. Some research suggests that certain bird species use “mobbing” calls to summon others to harass or drive away predators. However, the extent to which birds intentionally call on others for help or protection remains debated among ornithologists. What are alarm and mobbing calls? Alarm calls are vocalizations given by birds in response to predators or other threats in their environment. They often consist of loud, sudden cries or chips. These alarm calls serve to alert other members of the…
Yes, wood ducks are capable of flight. Wood ducks (Aix sponsa) are a medium-sized perching duck species found throughout North America. As members of the order Anseriformes, family Anatidae, wood ducks possess the anatomical features required for powered flight like all ducks, geese, and swans. Their wings produce enough lift and thrust to get their bodies off the ground and enable them to fly at speeds averaging 30-50 mph. Wood ducks take flight to travel between habitat areas, avoid predators, and migrate seasonally between breeding and wintering grounds. They are agile fliers, known for their ability to maneuver nimbly through…
Pigeon diapers are small diapers that can be attached to a pigeon’s backside to catch their droppings and prevent them from soiling indoor areas. Pigeon diapers provide a hygienic solution for keeping domesticated and trained pigeons indoors as pets or for use in performances, weddings, and other events. What are pigeon diapers made of? Pigeon diapers are typically made from soft, breathable fabrics like cotton so they do not chafe or irritate a bird’s skin. The diaper consists of a small pouch or pocket that fits over the vent or cloaca to catch feces. This pocket is attached to fabric…
The prairie chicken is a medium-sized grouse that inhabits the tallgrass prairies of central North America. There are two subspecies: the greater prairie chicken (Tympanuchus cupido pinnatus) and the lesser prairie chicken (Tympanuchus pallidicinctus). The lesser prairie chicken’s range extends across the shortgrass prairies from southeastern Colorado through western Kansas, eastern New Mexico, western Oklahoma, and into the Texas Panhandle. The greater prairie chicken historically occupied the tallgrass prairies from southern Manitoba through the Dakotas, eastern Montana, Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, northern Texas, Iowa, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, and eastern Kentucky and Tennessee. However, due to habitat loss and overhunting, the greater…
Quick Answers Birds can be either dead or stunned when they collide with windows. Smaller birds are more likely to die instantly from the impact, while larger birds may just be temporarily stunned. It depends on the speed and angle at which the bird hits the window, as well as the size and fragility of the bird. If a bird is only stunned, it can often recover if given some time to rest in a safe place. Birds frequently collide with windows on buildings, vehicles, and homes. In fact, window collisions are one of the leading causes of bird deaths…
When it comes to feeding backyard birds, homemade birdseed mixes allow you to control the ingredients, tailor the mix to local species, and save money versus buying commercial mixes. But with so many potential ingredients to choose from, how do you know what makes the best DIY bird seed mix? The optimal homemade blend will attract a variety of bird species, provide essential nutrition, and suit your budget. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know to create nutritious, cost-effective homemade birdseed to bring feathered friends flocking to your yard. What are the most attractive ingredients to include? Here…
Snow owls are magnificent birds that live in arctic regions. With their pure white plumage and large yellow eyes, they capture the imagination of many people who wonder if these majestic birds can be ridden. While snow owls have an impressive wingspan averaging 4-5 feet, their bodies are relatively small and light, weighing only 4-6 pounds on average. This brings up an interesting question – can you actually ride a snow owl? Let’s take a closer look at the possibilities, requirements, and considerations around riding these arctic birds. Quick Facts About Snow Owls Here are some quick facts about snow…