The loggerhead shrike (Lanius ludovicianus) is a fascinating bird with an unusual name. This medium-sized songbird has a grey back, white underparts, and a black mask across its face. But why is it called a “loggerhead” and a “shrike”? Let’s take a closer look at the origins of this bird’s common name. What is a Shrike? The “shrike” part of the name refers to the family that this bird belongs to, which is Laniidae. The Laniidae family contains over 30 species of shrikes that are found mainly in Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America. Shrikes are predatory songbirds that have…
Author: Alan Hernbroth
Both beanies and toques are types of winter hats that are worn to keep the head warm. Though they are similar, there are some key differences between the two. What is a Beanie? A beanie is a soft, close-fitting hat that covers the head and ears. Beanies are typically made of soft, stretchy material such as knitted wool, cashmere, or acrylic. The defining feature of a beanie is that it does not have a brim or fold-up edge. Instead, it sits closely on the crown of the head. Beanies are designed to provide warmth while allowing some breathability. The stretchy…
Grebes are unique waterbirds that are found on lakes and rivers across North America. They have specialized feathers that help them float high on the water and give them a lightning fast diving ability. Grebes have fascinating feeding behaviors and diets that allow them to thrive in their aquatic environments. What do grebes eat? Grebes are carnivorous birds that feed on a variety of small aquatic prey. Their diet consists mainly of fish, amphibians, and invertebrates. The specific diet of a grebe depends on the species, habitat, season, and availability of prey. Here are some of the main items in…
The bobolink is a small songbird found in North America. Its scientific name is Dolichonyx oryzivorus. It is notable for its distinctive plumage and complex courtship displays. Bobolinks migrate long distances each year, breeding in the northern United States and Canada before traveling to South America for the winter. Their large flocks in migration and bubbly song have made them a favorite among birdwatchers. In this article, we will take a closer look at the identification, habitat, diet, behavior, reproduction, and conservation status of the bobolink. Identification Bobolinks are sparrow-sized birds, measuring 15-18 cm in length with a wingspan of…
Molting is the process by which birds shed old, worn feathers and grow new ones. It is a normal part of a bird’s life cycle and allows them to maintain their plumage in good condition. Molting duration can vary significantly between bird species, as well as between individual birds based on factors like age, sex, environment, and time of year. Overall, molting lasts anywhere from a few weeks to several months. What is molting? Molting, also called moulting, is the process by which birds replace their feathers. Feathers deteriorate over time due to physical abrasion and damage from the sun,…
Scentbird is a perfume subscription service that allows customers to sample designer fragrances each month. For $15 per month, subscribers receive a 30-day supply of a perfume in a special case. With over 600 scents to choose from, it can be an affordable way to try out high-end fragrances before committing to a full bottle. But some shoppers have questioned whether the perfumes offered by Scentbird are 100% authentic versions of the real thing. Here’s a look at the facts. How Scentbird sources its fragrances According to Scentbird, they purchase their perfume inventory directly from brand manufacturers. The company claims…
Can You Get a Pet Kestrel? Kestrels are small, compact falcons that are known for their ability to hover in place while hunting. Their elegant flight patterns and fierce hunting skills have made them popular among falconers for centuries. So can you actually get a kestrel as a pet? Is it Legal to Own a Kestrel? In most parts of the United States, yes, it is legal to own a kestrel as a pet. Kestrels are classified as raptors, along with other birds of prey like hawks, eagles, and falcons. Raptors are regulated under federal and state laws, but private…
The Least Flycatcher (Empidonax minimus) is a small songbird found throughout much of North America. It is best known for its distinctive call, which sounds like “che-bek” or “che-bunk.” This call is often described as sounding like a squeaky gate or the words “cheap suit.” The Least Flycatcher uses its call to establish breeding territories and attract mates in the spring and summer. Understanding the details of this species’ iconic vocalization can provide clues into its ecology and behavior. Description of the Call The Least Flycatcher’s call is a two-note “che-bek” or “che-bunk” vocalization made by males during the breeding…
Birds have a sense of smell just like humans and other animals do. However, not all bird species rely on their sense of smell to the same degree. Birds use their sense of smell for a variety of purposes including locating food, avoiding predators, navigation, and social communication. The Bird Nose and Olfactory System Birds have nostrils, just like humans do, that allow air and odors to enter the nose and come into contact with receptor cells. Inside a bird’s nasal chamber are folds and scrolls of delicate tissue called turbinates which contain the olfactory receptors. The olfactory receptors detect…
The iconic scream of the bald eagle is one of the most recognizable sounds in the animal kingdom. But what exactly does this national symbol sound like and why? Here we explore the vocalizations of the American bald eagle in depth. Screech or Squawk? The most familiar vocalization of the bald eagle to humans is their loud, piercing scream. This is often described as a “screech” or “squawk”. However, ornithologists typically avoid these terms as they have specific meanings relating to the anatomy of bird vocalizations. “Screech” refers to high-pitched vocalizations like those of owls. Bald eagles do not possess…