No, Lake Austin and Lady Bird Lake are not the same thing. They are two distinct bodies of water located in Austin, Texas. While they are both lakes located along the Colorado River and within close proximity to downtown Austin, they have different histories, locations, purposes and features. Key Differences Between Lake Austin and Lady Bird Lake Here are some of the main differences between Lake Austin and Lady Bird Lake: Location Lake Austin is located upriver (west) of downtown Austin along the Colorado River. Lady Bird Lake sits downriver (southeast) of downtown Austin along the Colorado River. Purpose Lake…
Author: Alan Hernbroth
Ravens are remarkable birds that are known for their intelligence, adaptability, and flight capabilities. They belong to the corvid family, which includes crows, jays, and magpies. Of all the corvid species, ravens are among the largest, with some individuals reaching over 2 feet long and weighing up to 4.5 pounds. Their size and wingspan enable them to soar easily through the skies. But what exactly allows ravens to fly so well? Do all ravens fly, or are there exceptions? To understand the flight capabilities of ravens, we must first examine their anatomy and how it facilitates flight. Raven Anatomy and…
The gilded flicker (Colaptes chrysoides) is a large woodpecker found in the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is known for its distinctive vocalizations and striking plumage. In this article, we will explore the different sounds made by the gilded flicker and what they communicate. Gilded Flicker Call The most common vocalization of the gilded flicker is a loud, ringing “klee-yer.” This territorial call is often described as loud, clear, and far-carrying. It is typically given while perched or in flight and serves to proclaim ownership of a nesting territory and attract a mate. The gilded flicker has a very…
Tundra swans are large migratory waterfowl that breed in the Arctic tundra of Alaska, Canada, and Siberia during the summer months. In autumn, they migrate south to overwinter in wetlands further south in North America. Aylmer, Ontario is one location where significant numbers of tundra swans stop to rest and feed during their long migrations. Quick Answer On average, tundra swans stop in the Aylmer area for 2-4 weeks during both their fall and spring migrations. The timing of their stay depends on weather conditions and food availability. They tend to arrive in late October-November and depart in late March-April…
Grebes are a family of water birds that are found in wetlands across North America, Europe, Asia, Africa, South America, and Australia. There are 22 recognized species of grebes worldwide. Some grebe species have stable populations and are not at risk, while other species are declining in number and face threats to their survival. Overview of grebes Grebes belong to the order Podicipediformes and family Podicipedidae. They are diving birds with lobed toes, slender bills, and dense plumage that allows them to float low in the water. Their feet are placed far back on their bodies, which makes grebes awkward…
Grassland birds have been declining at alarming rates across North America over the past 50 years. According to research, grassland bird populations have declined by over 50% since 1970. There are several major factors that have contributed to these declines which this article will explore. Habitat Loss The single biggest threat to grassland birds is habitat loss. Grasslands have been converted at rapid rates to farmland, urban development, and other human uses. It is estimated that tallgrass prairie habitats have declined by over 99% since European settlement. Mixed grass prairies have declined by around 90%. This extensive loss of native…
Wrens are small, active birds that can be found all across North America. These busy birds flit through backyards and gardens, snapping up insects and spiders. Wrens are known for their loud, complex songs, which they sing year-round to establish territories and attract mates. One species in particular, the House Wren, is common in many suburban and urban areas. House Wrens are small, brown birds with barred wings and tails and a conspicuous white eyebrow. They build their nests in all sorts of cavities and containers, from birdhouses to flowerpots to mailboxes. House Wrens may raise more than one brood…
Ringneck ducks (Aythya collaris) are a species of diving duck found primarily in North America. They get their name from the distinctive chestnut-colored ring around their necks. Ringneck ducks inhabit marshy wetlands and breed in ponds and lakes with dense vegetation. They are migratory birds, spending their winters further south in the United States and Mexico. Let’s take a closer look at how rare ringneck ducks are. Ringneck Duck Population According to the North American Breeding Bird Survey, the global ringneck duck population is estimated to be around 640,000 individuals. The majority of these birds breed in Canada and the…
Birds have feathers covering their bodies that serve a variety of important functions. The feathers help birds fly, keep them warm, aid in courting rituals, and provide camouflage. But what exactly are the feathers called? Let’s take a closer look at the names and types of feathers found on birds. Types of Feathers There are several types of feathers that cover a bird’s body: Contour feathers – These are the feathers that form the shape of the bird and cover the entire body. They create a smooth, aerodynamic surface. Down feathers – Down feathers are soft, fluffy, and very close…
White-winged and black terns are two similar species of small migratory birds in the tern family. While they share some characteristics, there are also key differences between these two types of terns in terms of their physical appearance, habitat, nesting behaviors, diet, and conservation status. Quick Facts White-Winged Tern Scientific Name: Chlidonias leucopterus Length: 8-10 inches Wingspan: 20-24 inches Plumage: Gray back and wings, white forehead and underparts, black cap on head Beak: Red with black tip Range: Africa, southern Europe, Asia, Indonesia, New Guinea Habitat: Marshes, lakes, rivers Diet: Small fish, insects, crustaceans Nesting: Colonial nester, floating nests in…