Precocial species are animals that are born with a high degree of independence and are able to move around and feed themselves soon after birth. An example of a precocial species is the duck. Ducklings are able to leave the nest within hours or days of hatching and are able to find their own food and avoid predators right away. Background on Precocial Species Precocial species are the opposite of altricial species, which require extensive parental care and are helpless at birth. Precocial species are born in an advanced state of development compared to other species and are mobile and…
Author: Alan Hernbroth
The Ovenbird is a small North American warbler with olive-brown upperparts and a boldly streaked breast. Its common name refers to the domed nest it builds on the forest floor, which resembles an old-fashioned brick oven. But why is this particular bird named after an oven? Let’s take a closer look at the Ovenbird and the origins of its memorable moniker. Identifying the Ovenbird The Ovenbird (Seiurus aurocapilla) is a medium-sized warbler measuring 15–19 cm (6–7.5 in) in length with a wingspan of 8–11 in (20–28 cm). It has olive-brown upperparts, white underparts with bold black streaking on the breast…
The canvasback duck (Aythya valisineria) is a large diving duck species native to North America. Once abundant, canvasback populations declined in the early 20th century due to hunting and habitat loss. Their numbers have rebounded thanks to conservation efforts, but canvasbacks remain much less common than they once were. How many canvasbacks are there? According to surveys by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the total canvasback population in 2015 was estimated at 685,000 birds. This represents an increase from a low of about 250,000 birds in the 1970s, but is still well below the historical highs of over 1…
The bald eagle is the national bird of the United States of America. Known for its distinctive brown body and white head, the bald eagle is a powerful and skilled predator. One of the bald eagle’s most impressive features is its massive wingspan. But just how wide do these iconic birds’ wings stretch when fully extended? Quick Answer An adult bald eagle has a wingspan of between 6 and 7.5 feet on average. The largest wingspans on record are over 8 feet wide. Females tend to be larger than males. Measuring a Bald Eagle’s Wingspan A bald eagle’s wingspan is…
Yes, many species of birds are protected by federal and state laws in the United States. The Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 was one of the first major federal laws passed to protect birds in the US. It made it illegal to hunt, kill, sell, or possess over 1,000 species of migratory birds without a permit. Over time, additional laws like the Endangered Species Act have been passed to further protect threatened and endangered birds. Protection ranges from banning hunting and nest destruction to habitat conservation efforts. However, there are exceptions and not all birds are protected equally across…
The Northern Flicker (Colaptes auratus) is a medium-sized woodpecker found throughout most of North America. Its distinctive plumage, loud calls, and unique feeding habits make the Northern Flicker stand out among other bird species. But just how common or rare is this charismatic bird? In this article, we’ll explore the abundance and distribution of the Northern Flicker to determine if it deserves the label of “rare.” Range and Population Size The Northern Flicker occupies a very large range across North America. Its breeding grounds stretch from Alaska and Canada southward to the southern United States and into parts of Central…
The American bittern is a large, secretive heron that inhabits marshy wetlands across North America. With its streaked brown plumage that blends into reedbeds, the bittern can be very difficult to spot, leading many to wonder – just how rare are these elusive birds? Range and Population The American bittern has a wide range, breeding in wetlands across much of Canada and the United States. Its wintering range stretches along the southern coasts from California to North Carolina. However, despite this extensive range, the bittern has never been an abundant species. According to the North American Breeding Bird Survey, the…
Making a bird nest out of jute rope is a fun craft project that can be enjoyed by crafters of all ages. Jute rope is an ideal material for bird nests because it has a natural, rustic look and texture that resembles real twigs and branches. Jute is also sturdy and weather-resistant, so jute rope nests can withstand outdoor elements. Crafting a jute rope nest is easy, requiring just jute rope, wire or string, and glue. With some basic weaving and knotting techniques, you can create a cozy nest for backyard birds in just an afternoon. Installing the finished nest…
Quick Answer There are a few potential meanings when a flock of birds flies back and forth: They are searching for food. They are migrating. They are establishing territory. They are avoiding predators. Birds fly in flocks for protection and to make finding food easier. Flocks flying back and forth are likely engaged in one of these behaviors. Read on to learn more about flocking behavior and what it signifies when flocks fly repetitively. Searching for Food One of the main reasons birds flock together is to make finding food easier. When a flock is flying back and forth repeatedly…