The yellow-rumped warbler and Cape May warbler are two similar looking warbler species found in North America. They can be difficult to distinguish from one another in the field due to their overlapping ranges and similar plumage. However, there are some key differences between these two warblers in terms of distribution, habitat, diet, appearance, song, and behavior. Understanding the differences between yellow-rumped and Cape May warblers can help birders accurately identify them. Geographic Distribution The yellow-rumped warbler has a much broader distribution across North America compared to the Cape May warbler. Yellow-rumped Warbler Distribution The yellow-rumped warbler breeds across Canada…
Author: Alan Hernbroth
There are a few different black and white birds that resemble nuthatches in appearance. Nuthatches are small songbirds with short tails and long, pointed bills. They have compact bodies and short legs, and they often climb headfirst down tree trunks searching for insects. The key black and white birds that look similar to nuthatches include chickadees, titmice, and black-and-white warblers. In this article, we will explore the distinguishing features of each of these birds and how to identify them. Chickadees Chickadees are small perching birds that are widespread across North America. There are several different species of chickadees, but the…
Swans are large, beautiful waterfowl known for their grace and elegance. One of the most iconic aspects of swans is watching them take flight from water. The way swans take off from a lake or river is distinct and instantly recognizable. In this article, we will explore the mechanics of how swans use their bodies and wings to generate the power needed to lift their heavy bodies off the water’s surface and achieve flight. Swan Anatomy To understand how swans take off from water, it’s helpful to first understand some key aspects of their anatomy: WingspanUp to 10 feet for…
Cardinals are beautiful red birds that can often be seen at backyard bird feeders. They have distinctive red plumage and a crest on their heads. Many bird enthusiasts enjoy having cardinals visit their yards. When it comes to feeding cardinals, there are some key things to know about their feeding preferences and behavior. Cardinals will eat both at feeders and on the ground Cardinals are opportunistic feeders and will eat both at bird feeders placed above ground as well as food items on the ground. Here are some details on cardinal feeding preferences: Feeders: Cardinals will readily come to feeders…
Wild turkeys can be challenging quarry for hunters. There are six subspecies of wild turkey in North America, and some are considered more wary and difficult to hunt than others. In determining the hardest turkeys to hunt, factors like wariness, habitat, hunting pressure, and regulations must be considered. Eastern Wild Turkey The eastern wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo silvestris) is the most widespread and numerous of the wild turkey subspecies. Easterns can be found from New England south to Florida and west to the Mississippi River. This subspecies adapts well to a variety of habitats including forests, agricultural areas, and even…
What Kinds of Birds Can Be Trained? Many species of birds can be trained to do tricks or interact with their owners. Some of the most common pet birds that are good candidates for training include: Parrots Parrots like cockatoos, macaws, Amazons, African greys, conures, parakeets, and budgies are highly intelligent and social birds. Their ability to mimic human speech makes them excellent at learning tricks through repetition and positive reinforcement. Parrots enjoy interacting with their owners and thrive on mental stimulation, so training is a great way to bond with them. Canaries Canaries can be taught simple tricks like…
Purple martins are the largest member of the swallow family in North America. They are glossy blue-black birds that nest in colonies, relying on human-provided nest boxes. Purple martins migrate north from South America each spring to breed in North America before heading south again in the fall. Setting up a purple martin house can help provide these beneficial insect-eating birds with safe nesting sites. Here are some tips on getting started with a purple martin house. Choose the Right Location One of the most important things when setting up a purple martin house is choosing the right location. Purple…
Nighthawk is a supervillain character who appears in DC Comics as an enemy of Batman. He first debuted in Detective Comics #585 in 1988 and was created by writer Joey Cavalieri and artist Joe Staton. Who Created Nighthawk? As mentioned above, Nighthawk was created by writer Joey Cavalieri and artist Joe Staton. He first appeared in the Detective Comics comic book series in issue #585 published in 1988. Nighthawk was conceived as a new villain to antagonize Batman. What are Nighthawk’s Origins? Nighthawk’s real name is Kyle Armstrong. He was originally a decorated police officer with the Gotham City Police…
The red back of the Northern Flicker’s head is a distinguishing feature of this medium-sized North American woodpecker. Flickers are members of the Picidae family of woodpeckers and are found across most of North America. The Northern Flicker has several distinctive physical features including a brown back with black barring, a gray face, and a black breast. However, one of the most noticeable characteristics of the Northern Flicker is the red patch found on the back of the male’s head. This bright red patch stands out against the gray and brown plumage of the rest of the bird. The red…
Birds have an incredible ability to fly through the air with grace and speed. But can they also dive underwater like other animals? The answer is yes – some bird species are excellent divers capable of plunging deep below the surface to catch fish or escape predators. What allows birds to dive? Certain anatomical and physiological adaptations enable some birds to dive efficiently: Streamlined bodies to reduce drag and allow them to slice through the water. Wings designed for propulsion underwater via swimming motions. Feather coats with waterproofing oils that resist water absorption. Powerful leg muscles to propel their swimming…