The long-tailed duck, also known as oldsquaw, is a medium-sized sea duck that breeds in the Arctic regions and winters along coastal waters further south. With its distinctive long tail feathers, mostly white plumage, and black cap markings, the long-tailed duck is a prized gamebird and readily identifiable. But is it truly a sea duck? To answer this question, we must examine the characteristics and behaviors of the long-tailed duck and how they compare to other sea duck species. Defining Sea Ducks Sea ducks comprise a tribe called Mergini within the waterfowl family Anatidae. There are approximately 20 species of…
Author: Alan Hernbroth
The anhinga, also known as the darter or snakebird, is a fascinating waterbird that inhabits swamps, marshes, and other wetlands throughout the Americas. Anhingas have many unique adaptations that allow them to live an aquatic lifestyle. In this article, we will explore some of the coolest facts about the biology, behavior, and ecology of the amazing anhinga! Anatomy and Appearance Anhingas are medium-sized waterbirds with long, slender necks and pointed bills. Some key facts about their anatomy and appearance include: They have slender, snake-like necks that make up about one-third of their total body length. This allows them to dart…
Cardinals are known for their bright red plumage and melodious songs. One behavior that often catches people’s attention is the cardinal’s habit of flicking or fanning its tail. This quirk leads many observers to wonder: why do cardinals flick their tails? Quick Facts About Cardinal Tail-Flicking Here are some quick facts to answer why cardinals flick their tails: – Tail-flicking is a common behavior in both male and female cardinals. – The behavior is often seen when cardinals are perched or foraging. – Cardinals can flick their tails slowly or rapidly, sometimes up to 3-4 times per second. – Tail-flicking…
Anhingas are a fascinating species of water bird that are known for their habit of spreading their wings open to bask in the sun. This unusual behavior serves several important purposes for the anhinga. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons why anhingas assume this iconic wing-spreading posture. Thermoregulation One of the main reasons anhingas spread their wings is to help regulate their body temperature. Anhingas do not have waterproof feathers like ducks and other waterfowl. This allows them to dive and swim underwater easily when hunting for fish. However, it also means they can get waterlogged and chilled when…
Monk parakeets (Myiopsitta monachus), also known as Quaker parrots, are small, bright green parrots that are native to temperate and subtropical South America. However, monk parakeets have been introduced to many other parts of the world, including North America, Europe, and Asia, where some populations have become invasive and caused ecological and agricultural damage. Monk parakeets are popular as pets because of their intelligence and ability to mimic speech. They typically live in large, noisy colonies built from twigs and branches. This colonial nesting behavior, coupled with their adaptability, has allowed monk parakeets to thrive after accidental and intentional releases…
Quick Answer Yes, the Northern Hawk Owl is considered a carnivore. The Northern Hawk Owl is a medium-sized owl that is found across northern North America and Eurasia. It gets its name from its hawk-like appearance and hunting behavior. The Northern Hawk Owl mainly eats small mammals like voles, lemmings, mice, shrews, and occasionally small birds. This makes it a carnivorous bird of prey. Diet The Northern Hawk Owl is considered a specialist predator, focusing its diet on small mammals like voles, lemmings, mice, shrews, and other rodents. Here is an overview of the Northern Hawk Owl’s diet: Voles -…
Red headed Amazon parrots (Amazona viridigenalis) are medium-sized parrots native to Mexico and northern Central America. They are instantly recognizable by their bright red head and green feathers. Red headed Amazons are popular as pets due to their stunning appearance, ability to talk, and generally friendly personalities. However, red headed Amazons can be demanding pets that require a lot of attention, proper nutrition, and appropriate housing. An important consideration for prospective red headed Amazon owners is understanding their expected lifespan in captivity. Knowing the average red headed Amazon lifespan can help owners make the long-term commitment these parrots require. Average…
A swallow test, also known as a modified barium swallow study, is a test that evaluates your swallowing ability. It is typically performed by a speech-language pathologist and involves drinking barium while being video fluoroscoped. This allows the speech pathologist to view the anatomy and physiology of swallowing in real time and assess any difficulties or abnormalities. Swallow studies may be conducted at hospitals, outpatient clinics, rehab centers, or speech therapy offices equipped with fluoroscopy. What is the purpose of a swallow test? A swallow test serves several important purposes: Identify swallowing difficulties (dysphagia) Determine the cause of dysphagia Assess…
Hearing a hawk scream can be a startling experience. The loud, piercing cries of these predatory birds stand out from other bird calls. But what does it actually mean when you hear a hawk scream? There are a few main reasons why hawks vocalize. Their screams can communicate alarm, advertise territory, attract mates, signal excitement, or threaten competitors. Understanding the context around the hawk’s call can provide clues into what the bird is trying to convey. This article will explore the meanings behind various hawk screams. Alarm Screams One of the most common reasons for hawks to scream is to…
The number of baby barn owls (chicks) in a nest can vary from one nest to another. On average, most barn owl nests contain 4-7 chicks. However, the clutch size (number of eggs laid) and brood size (number of chicks that hatch) depends on several factors. Typical Barn Owl Clutch and Brood Size Barn owls typically lay between 3-11 eggs per clutch, with the average being 4-7 eggs. Not all eggs in a clutch may hatch successfully. On average, a barn owl nest produces 4-6 chicks. Here is a quick overview of typical barn owl clutch and brood sizes: Average…