The painted bunting is a small colorful songbird that migrates between breeding grounds in the southern United States and wintering grounds in Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean islands. Painted buntings undergo two annual migrations, traveling back and forth between their breeding and wintering grounds. The timing of their migrations is primarily influenced by seasonal changes that impact food availability and optimal weather conditions. By understanding the annual migration patterns of painted buntings, we can better appreciate the adaptations and risks these birds undergo in their strenuous journeys. What Are Painted Buntings? Painted buntings (Passerina ciris) are a species of…
Author: Alan Hernbroth
The Symbolism and Meaning of Broad-Winged Hawks The broad-winged hawk is a medium-sized hawk found throughout eastern North America. With its distinctive dark and white barring on the undersides of its broad wings and tail, the broad-winged hawk is a remarkable bird that has captivated people for centuries. Like all hawks and birds of prey, the broad-winged hawk symbolizes vision, power, and guardianship in various cultures and spiritual belief systems. However, this species has some more specific symbolic meanings tied to its appearance, habits, and innate nature. Here’s an overview of the broad-winged hawk’s key symbolic meanings: Vision With large,…
The common redstart (Phoenicurus phoenicurus) is a small passerine bird in the flycatcher family. Redstarts are known for their bright red tails, which the males in particular display prominently during breeding season. But just how small are these birds? In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at the size of the common redstart from head to tail. Average Length and Wingspan The common redstart is a very petite bird, averaging 12-14 cm (4.7-5.5 in) in length from the tip of its beak to the end of its tail. Its wingspan ranges from 20-22 cm (7.9-8.7 in) across. To put…
Golden eagles are one of the most majestic birds of prey found across the Northern Hemisphere. Known for their sharp vision, powerful talons, and massive 7-8 foot wingspans, golden eagles are a sight to behold. But what do young, immature golden eagles look like before they reach full adulthood? Let’s take a closer look at the key identification features of immature golden eagles. Plumage The plumage (feathers) of immature golden eagles can vary considerably depending on the bird’s age. Hatchlings emerge from the egg covered in white down feathers. At around 6 weeks old, the juvenile plumage emerges as darker…
Zebra finches are small, lively songbirds that are native to the grasslands of central Australia. In the wild, they have adapted to survive on a variety of different foods that are available in their harsh, arid habitat. Understanding the natural diet of zebra finches provides useful insight for properly caring for them in captivity. Main Components of the Zebra Finch Diet The core staples in the diet of wild zebra finches consist of: Seeds from native grasses and herbaceous plants Insects and other small invertebrates Occasional fruits, berries, buds, and blossoms Zebra finches are opportunistic, generalist feeders that forage on…
Birds must eat to survive, even in the harsh winter months when food can be scarce. But with insects largely dormant or hidden away during winter, how do birds find the nutrients they need? The short answer is yes, birds do eat insects in winter, but their diet changes compared to the warmer months. Do all birds eat insects? The majority of birds eat insects and other invertebrates like spiders, worms, and snails. In fact, over 95% of terrestrial bird species are primarily insectivores to some degree. Even seed and nut eating birds feed their chicks protein-rich insects for proper…
The tufted duck and the greater scaup are two species of diving ducks that belong to the genus Aythya. Both species are found in North America and Eurasia and can be difficult to distinguish in the field due to their similar size and coloring. However, there are some key differences between these two diving ducks in terms of physical features, habitat, diet, breeding behavior, and conservation status. Physical Features The tufted duck and greater scaup have similar body shapes and sizes. Adult males of both species have black heads, necks, breasts, and tails contrasting with white flanks and bellies. Females…
Wild turkeys are large game birds native to North America. They are known for the males’ colorful feathers and the fleshy growth on their chest called a beard. But can female turkeys also grow beards? Let’s take a closer look at wild turkey anatomy and behavior to find out. Do only male turkeys have beards? The answer is no – female wild turkeys can also grow beards! However, it is much less common for hens to have prominent beards compared to toms (adult male turkeys). Here are some key facts about wild turkey beards: Nearly all adult male wild turkeys…
Bird feed, also known as birdseed or bird food, refers to food specifically formulated for consumption by birds. There are many different types of bird feed available, designed to meet the nutritional needs of different bird species. Common Types of Bird Feed Here are some of the most common types of bird feed: Seed mix – A blend of different seeds, like millet, sunflower seeds, and cracked corn. Suet – Fatty seed cakes made from rendered beef fat, nut butter, or other ingredients. Nectar – Sugar water formulations for hummingbirds and oriole birds. Fruit – Dried fruits like raisins, cranberries,…
Grouse are a genus of plump medium-sized birds in the order Galliformes. There are several species of grouse, including ruffed grouse, spruce grouse, blue grouse, and sharp-tailed grouse. Grouse are ground-nesting birds known for eating buds, leaves, fruits, and insects. Grouse hunting is a popular sport in many parts of North America and Europe. Hunters pursue grouse during hunting seasons that are set by wildlife agencies. There is debate among hunters regarding the best shotgun gauge to use for grouse hunting. The two most popular options are 12 gauge and 20 gauge shotguns. Some hunters swear by the 12 gauge…