Goshawks and Cooper’s hawks are two species of accipiter hawks found in North America. They are similar in size and shape, which can make differentiating between them challenging for birders. However, with close observation, there are several key differences that can be used to identify them. Size Goshawks are larger than Cooper’s hawks. Adult goshawks have an average length of 17-25 inches and a wingspan of 34-48 inches. Adult Cooper’s hawks are smaller, with an average length of 14-20 inches and a wingspan of 26-32 inches. There is some overlap in their sizes, but if you see a large accipiter…
Author: Alan Hernbroth
The red-winged blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus) is a common and widespread bird species found across much of North and Central America. However, despite their abundance, these birds face a number of threats from human activities and environmental changes. In this article, we will examine the key risks facing red-winged blackbirds and look at why they are considered at risk. Habitat Loss One of the biggest threats to red-winged blackbirds is the loss and degradation of their natural wetland habitats. Red-winged blackbirds rely on wetlands for nesting, shelter, and foraging. However, many wetlands across North America have been drained and converted to…
Horned larks are small songbirds found across North America. They breed in a variety of open habitats, including grasslands, deserts, tundra, agricultural areas, and coastal regions. Their breeding range extends from northern Canada and Alaska south throughout the continental United States and Mexico. Breeding Range Horned larks have an extensive breeding range across North America. Here is an overview of where they nest in different regions: Canada and Alaska In northern Canada and Alaska, horned larks breed in tundra habitats. They nest on the ground in areas with low-growing vegetation and ample bare ground. Their breeding range extends as far…
Blackbirds are a common nuisance bird that can damage crops, make a mess around homes with their droppings, wake you up early with their loud calls, and aggressively chase away other more desirable backyard birds. While measures exist to deter and repel blackbirds, care must be taken to avoid impacting beneficial, protected, or endangered birds that may share the same environment. This article will explore various techniques to specifically target blackbirds while sparing other bird species. Identify the Problematic Blackbird Species The first step is confirming the culprits are indeed blackbirds. In North America, problematic blackbird species include: European starling…
Cardinals are a familiar red bird that can be found across North America. While adult cardinals with their bright red plumage are easy to spot, baby cardinals look quite different than their parents. Baby cardinals go through several stages of development before taking on their recognizable red feathers. In this article, we will explore what cardinal babies look like at each stage of growth and development. We will cover their appearance, sounds, behaviors, and how to identify them. Whether you are a bird watcher eager to spot these charming fledglings or simply curious about the early lives of cardinals, read…
The Flammulated Owl (Psiloscops flammeolus) is a small, secretive owl found in western North America. These owls are highly migratory, breeding in western mountains and foothills and wintering in Mexico and Central America. Flammulated Owls nest in cavities in trees, often old woodpecker holes or natural cavities. Their specific nesting habits and habitat preferences have been the subject of research by ornithologists seeking to learn more about this elusive species. What kind of habitat do Flammulated Owls prefer? Flammulated Owls are strongly associated with ponderosa pine and mixed conifer forests. They prefer open, mature forests with large diameter trees and…
Yes, there are still hyacinth macaws living in the wild, although their populations have declined significantly in recent decades. The hyacinth macaw is the largest species of macaw and also the largest flying parrot in the world. These striking bright blue parrots with yellow rings around their eyes originally lived in inland regions of central and eastern South America. However, habitat loss and trapping for the pet trade have made them endangered with only an estimated 6,500 birds remaining in the wild. Where do hyacinth macaws live in the wild? Hyacinth macaws are found in three main regions of South…
The black headed ibis (Threskiornis melanocephalus) is a wading bird found across parts of Asia and Africa. Known for their distinctive black heads and long, downcurved bills, black headed ibises are a familiar sight in wetlands across their range. Their lifespan and longevity are of interest to ornithologists studying their populations and behavior. In this article, we will explore what is known about the typical lifespan of the black headed ibis. The black headed ibis belongs to the ibis and spoonbill family Threskiornithidae. It is a medium-sized ibis, reaching lengths of 24-26 inches (60-65 cm) and a weight of 1.1-1.9…
Little gulls and Bonaparte’s gulls are two similar-looking species of seagulls found in North America. While they share some similarities and can be confused with one another, there are several key differences between these two types of gulls. Appearance In terms of physical appearance, little gulls and Bonaparte’s gulls look quite alike at first glance. They are both small, slender gulls with long, pointed wings and short, black legs. Adult little gulls measure around 33–38 cm in length with a wingspan of 76–87 cm. Bonaparte’s gulls are very close in size, measuring 34–38 cm in length with a wingspan of…
A whinny call is a high-pitched vocal sound made by horses and other equines to communicate different emotions and meanings. Horses use whinnying to express excitement, stress, fear, recognition of other horses, locating each other, and bonding within the herd. It is one of the most common vocalizations made by domestic horses and their wild counterparts. Understanding the context and tone of a horse’s whinny can provide insight into how they are feeling. What Does a Whinny Sound Like? A whinny is a loud, high-pitched vocalization that almost sounds like a whine or neigh. It is an elongated sound that…