The Northern Pintail (Anas acuta) is a large duck species that can be found across the Northern Hemisphere. It is known for its slender, elongated neck and pointed tail feathers, which give rise to its common name. Though widespread, Northern Pintail populations have been declining in many parts of its range. However, this beautiful duck still offers some intriguing facts about its life history, behavior, and ecology. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most interesting fun facts about the elegant Northern Pintail. Fun Facts About the Northern Pintail’s Appearance The Northern Pintail duck cuts a slim, elegant figure…
Author: Peter Knight
An aviary is an enclosure used to house birds and can range from small cages to large walk-in structures. Many bird enthusiasts dream of having an aviary in their own backyard to enjoy the sights and sounds of different bird species. But before embarking on building your own aviary, there are some important factors to consider. In the opening paragraphs, we will provide quick answers to key questions about backyard aviaries: – Is it legal to have an aviary? In most areas, it is legal to have a backyard aviary if you follow regulations regarding the number and type of…
The Brewers blackbird (Euphagus cyanocephalus) is a species of bird found throughout much of western North America. It is named for the 19th century American ornithologist Thomas Mayo Brewer. But why is it specifically called a “Brewers” blackbird, and where did this distinctive name come from? In this article, we’ll explore the origins and history behind the naming of this familiar backyard bird. Who Was Thomas Mayo Brewer? Thomas Mayo Brewer (1814-1880) was an American naturalist and ornithologist from Boston, Massachusetts. He had a keen interest in birds from a young age, and went on to become one of the…
There are few birds that can frustrate backyard birders more than the common House Sparrow. While native to Europe and parts of Asia and Africa, House Sparrows were introduced to North America in the mid-1800s and have become one of the most widely distributed and abundant birds on the continent. Unfortunately, their abundance comes at the expense of many native birds that are in competition with House Sparrows for food and nesting sites. House Sparrows are aggressive and will chase away other birds from feeders and take over nest boxes meant for native species like bluebirds. They can also spread…
Quick Answer Yes, black guillemots are able to fly. They are seabirds that belong to the auk family and have short wings and heavy bodies adapted for swimming underwater to catch fish, their main prey. However, black guillemots are also strong fliers and use their flying abilities to migrate long distances and move between nesting and feeding grounds. Their flying style involves rapid wingbeats and direct, low flights over the water. Black Guillemot Biology The black guillemot (Cepphus grylle) is a medium-sized seabird that breeds on rocky coasts and islands in the northern Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Some key facts…
Crows are incredibly intelligent and opportunistic birds that will eat a wide variety of food sources. This includes eggs from other birds’ nests. Crows are known for raiding nests and eating eggs, especially those of smaller songbirds. There are a few key reasons why crows will prey on bird eggs: Crows are omnivores Crows have an omnivorous diet, meaning they eat both plant and animal matter. While a good portion of a crow’s diet consists of seeds, fruits, and grains, they also opportunistically eat insects, small vertebrates, and eggs. Bird eggs are a convenient source of protein and nutrients for…
Cattle egrets (Bubulcus ibis) are small white herons that are often seen accompanying and feeding near cattle and other large grazing herbivores. This close association between cattle egrets and cattle has long fascinated ecologists and raised questions about the nature of the relationship between the birds and bovids. What is the relationship between cattle egrets and cattle? There has been much debate over whether the relationship between cattle egrets and cattle is an example of commensalism or mutualism. Commensalism is an ecological interaction between two living organisms where one organism benefits from the association and the other is generally unaffected.…
A flying geese quilt pattern is a classic patchwork quilt design that consists of triangle shapes resembling flying geese. The pattern has been popular with quilters for over a century due to its versatile design and striking visual effect. In this article, we will explore the history, design, and uses of the flying geese quilt pattern. What is the history of the flying geese quilt pattern? The flying geese quilt pattern has origins dating back to the late 19th century during the Victorian era. However, the pattern did not gain widespread popularity until the 1930s and 1940s. The pattern’s name…
Carolina chickadees are small, energetic songbirds that belong to the tit family Paridae. They are easily identifiable by their black cap and bib, gray back, and white cheeks. Carolina chickadees are found across the southeastern United States and are a very common backyard bird. Do Carolina chickadees use birdhouses? Yes, Carolina chickadees do use birdhouses. While they are cavity nesters that nest in natural cavities like old woodpecker holes or rotted out areas of trees, they have adapted well to using artificial nest boxes and birdhouses provided for them in backyards. Carolina chickadees typically choose a nesting site in a…
House finches and hummingbirds are two common backyard birds that often visit the same feeders and flowers. Some people wonder if aggressive house finches might bully or scare away more delicate hummingbirds. The answer is complicated and depends on several factors. In general, house finches and hummingbirds can and do coexist in backyards and gardens. They have different feeding behaviors and preferences that allow them to share space and food sources. However, in some situations, house finches may dominate feeders and cause hummingbirds to feed elsewhere. Understanding what attracts these birds and their typical interactions can help you manage your…