Kenya is home to a wide variety of bird species. With its diverse habitats ranging from forests, savannahs, wetlands, deserts and coastlines, Kenya provides environments that allow various types of birds to thrive. But just how many bird species can be found in this East African nation? Quick Answer There are approximately 1,100 bird species found in Kenya, making it one of the most bird-diverse countries in Africa. With its equatorial location, Kenya experiences warm temperatures year-round providing a hospitable climate for many bird species. The country’s diverse topography is another key factor that allows different types of birds to…
Author: Alan Hernbroth
Quick Summary The Eurasian Collared-Dove is an invasive species that has rapidly expanded its range across North America over the past few decades. There is some evidence that they may compete with native Mourning Doves for food and nesting resources. However, more research is needed to fully understand the nature of this competition and its impacts on Mourning Dove populations. Factors like habitat overlap, dietary overlap, aggressiveness, and nest site competition may contribute to competition between the two species. Overall, the jury is still out on whether Eurasian Collared-Doves are negatively impacting Mourning Doves through competition. Careful monitoring of both…
Birds of prey, also known as raptors, include hawks, eagles, owls, vultures, and falcons. They are carnivorous hunters with excellent eyesight and powerful talons that allow them to seize and kill prey. Raptors come in many different sizes, from small kestrels to large eagles and vultures. But which raptor has the largest wingspan? Wingspan Defined A bird’s wingspan is defined as the distance from the tip of one wing to the tip of the other, with the wings spread to their maximum width. This measurement essentially shows how wide a bird’s wings are from end to end when fully extended.…
Quick Answer Hooded orioles are considered rare in many parts of their range, though they can be locally common in some areas. Their limited breeding range and habitat specificity contribute to their rarity. Hooded Oriole Overview The hooded oriole is a striking black and yellow songbird found in the southwestern United States and Mexico. Here are some key facts about hooded orioles: Scientific Name: Icterus cucullatus Range: Breeds in southwest U.S. and northwest Mexico, winters in central Mexico Habitat: Riparian woodlands, palm oases, orchards Size: 7-8 inches long with 9-10 inch wingspan Diet: Nectar, fruit, insects Conservation Status: Least Concern…
Owls are amazing birds of prey that come in many different species. Two similar-looking owl species are the great-horned owl and the long-eared owl. While they share some physical characteristics, there are key differences between them that allow you to tell them apart. Size and Wingspan The great-horned owl is one of the larger owl species in North America. It has a body length of 18-25 inches, a wingspan of 40-60 inches, and weighs 2-4 pounds. The female great-horned owl is typically larger than the male. The long-eared owl is a medium-sized owl. It measures 13-16 inches long, has a…
Guano is the accumulated excrement of seabirds, bats, and seals. It is an effective fertilizer due to its high levels of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Guano has become a valuable commodity in agricultural regions where soil nutrients are scarce. But where is guano actually harvested from? What is Guano? Guano refers to the feces and urine of seabirds, bats, and seals that accumulates in certain areas over time. Here are some key facts about guano: Guano is high in nitrogen, phosphate, and potassium – key nutrients needed for plant growth. Bird and bat guano tends to be higher in nutrients…
The term “eagle eye” refers to having sharp vision or acute observational skills. It is often used to describe someone who notices even the smallest details. But where does this common expression come from and how did it become associated with the regal bird of prey? The Eagle’s Keen Eyesight Eagles are known for their incredible eyesight. Their large, sharp eyes allow them to spot potential prey from very far distances. An eagle’s fovea, the area of their retina where visual acuity is highest, is much larger than a human’s. This gives them higher resolution and enables them to see…
Red-winged blackbirds are a common sight across much of North America. These striking birds are medium-sized songbirds with jet-black bodies and bright red shoulder patches bordered with yellow called epaulets. Their scientific name is Agelaius phoeniceus. With their melodious songs and flashy plumage, redwings add beauty and character to wetlands, fields, and backyards across their range. However, they also have a reputation as agricultural pests, feasting on crops like rice, sunflowers, and corn. This leads many people to wonder – do red-winged blackbirds also eat peanuts in the shell? Let’s take a closer look at the diet, behavior, and preferences…
Quick Answer Yes, parakeets can eat from bird feeders designed for smaller birds. Parakeets have small beaks that allow them to access seeds from tube feeders and hopper feeders made for finches and other small songbirds. However, parakeets may have difficulty accessing larger bird feeders made for bigger birds like cardinals or woodpeckers. Some things to consider when setting up a bird feeder for parakeets include: Use a tube or hopper feeder with small perches and seed ports Fill the feeder with small seeds like nyjer, safflower, or millet Place the feeder at an appropriate height for parakeets to perch…
There are a number of insects and other animals that are capable of flying backwards or reversing direction while in flight. This ability allows them to maneuver quickly and evade predators or threats. Flying backwards requires specialized anatomical features and wing motions to generate backward thrust. The distance an animal can fly backwards depends on the species, but some can manage several body lengths. Insects That Can Fly Backwards Dragonflies Dragonflies are adept fliers that can propel themselves backwards with ease. Their four wings allow for complex changes in wing angle and position to produce reverse thrust. Dragonflies rely on…