The short answer is yes, pheasant is considered a type of poultry. Pheasant refers to several species of medium-sized birds in the Phasianidae family, which also includes chickens, turkeys, quail, and other game birds. What defines poultry? Poultry is a broad term that refers to domesticated birds that are raised for their meat and eggs. More specifically, poultry includes chickens, turkeys, ducks, geese, pigeons, pheasants, and other game birds. So by definition, pheasant is considered a type of poultry. Poultry are typically raised on farms and have traits such as: Being domesticated rather than wild birds Having wings and beaks…
Author: Alan Hernbroth
Elf owls, with the scientific name Micrathene whitneyi, are the smallest owl species in North America. Despite their tiny size, averaging only about 5-6 inches in length, elf owls are formidable nighttime predators. Their diet consists mainly of insects, small birds, reptiles, and mammals. This brings up the question – do elf owls eat rats? Let’s take a closer look at the elf owl’s characteristics, habitat, hunting behaviors, and dietary preferences to find out. Quick Facts about Elf Owls – Elf owls are the smallest owl species in North America, averaging only 5-6 inches in length with a wingspan of…
The Northern Flicker is a medium-sized woodpecker found throughout much of North America. With their brownish barred plumage, black bib, and bright yellow underwings, Northern Flickers are a striking and easily identifiable backyard bird. Northern Flickers frequent backyards with large trees, especially older trees that provide suitable nesting cavities. They also visit backyard feeders, preferring to feed on the ground under tube feeders or platform feeders. When choosing a bird feeder to attract Northern Flickers, there are several factors to consider, including the type of food, feeder placement, and feeder design. What Do Northern Flickers Eat? Northern Flickers are omnivores…
Parakeets losing their feathers can be worrying for any pet owner. However, it’s important not to panic as there are usually identifiable reasons for the feather loss. By understanding the common causes and implementing some simple solutions, you can help get your parakeet’s plumage back to normal. Why Is My Parakeet Losing Feathers? There are several potential explanations for parakeet feather loss: Molting Molting is a natural process where parakeets shed old feathers to make way for new ones. This generally occurs 1-2 times per year, often in the spring and fall. During molting, it’s normal to see an increase…
Peacocks are known for their beautiful and vibrant plumage. The male peacock, also known as a peacock, has extravagant tail feathers called trains that they can spread out to attract females during courtship displays. Peacocks come in a variety of different colors, ranging from vibrant blues, greens and purples to more muted browns and tans. But what is the rarest and most elusive peacock color? Keep reading to find out! An Overview of Peacock Colors The most common peacock colors are: Royal Blue – This vibrant blue is the most iconic and recognizable peacock color. The feathers have an iridescent…
The ivory-billed woodpecker is one of the most iconic and sought after birds in North America. With its brilliant red crest, white bill, and huge size, the “Lord God bird,” as it’s been called, has captured the imagination of naturalists and birders for generations. Once common in the virgin forests of the southeastern United States, habitat destruction and overhunting devastated ivory-bill populations in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Most experts declared the species extinct by the middle of the 20th century, though unconfirmed sightings continued to trickle in over the decades. Then, in 2004, came an electrifying announcement:…
Birds migrate in different directions during the fall migration period depending on the species. The main factors that determine the direction of migration include food availability, suitable habitat, and weather conditions. Many birds migrate south to warmer climates, while others may migrate west or east to reach their wintering grounds. Bird migration is the regular seasonal movement of bird populations between their breeding grounds and wintering grounds. It is an amazing phenomenon that allows birds to avoid harsh weather conditions, find abundant food sources, and locate suitable habitat for nesting and raising their young. Migration typically occurs in the spring…
Spruce grouse, also known as Canada grouse, Franklin’s grouse, or fool hens, are a medium-sized grouse species found in the boreal forests of Alaska, Canada, and the northern parts of the contiguous United States. They are closely related to other grouse species like ruffed grouse and ptarmigan. Spruce grouse are popular among hunters for both their meat and sport. However, some people wonder if they really taste good and are worth targeting. In this article, we’ll explore whether spruce grouse are good eating. An Overview of Spruce Grouse Here’s a quick rundown on spruce grouse natural history and characteristics: -…
Birds have the remarkable ability to mimic human speech and other sounds. Some species, like parrots and mynah birds, are exceptionally good at imitating the words and sounds around them. But do these birds actually understand the meaning of the words they copy? Do they use language the same way humans do? These questions have fascinated researchers and bird owners for centuries. Can birds associate words with meanings? Some research suggests that certain bird species can learn to associate words and sounds with meanings. For example, African gray parrots like Alex, who was studied by animal psychologist Irene Pepperberg, could…
There are several species of birds that are able to dive into water and swim. The most common groups of birds known for their diving and swimming abilities are waterfowl, seabirds, and wading birds. Waterfowl Many species of ducks, geese, and swans are excellent divers and swimmers. Their bodies are well adapted for an aquatic lifestyle, with webbed feet for efficient propulsion in water and dense, waterproof plumage that helps provide buoyancy and insulation. Some of the most notable waterfowl that routinely dive and swim include: Mallards Canvasbacks Scaups Goldeneyes Mergansers Long-tailed ducks Eiders Scoters Mallards, canvasbacks, scaups, goldeneyes, and…