The crested flycatcher is a medium-sized songbird that is known for its distinctive call. This bird gets its name from the crest of feathers on its head and its insect-catching behavior. The crested flycatcher has a very recognizable vocalization that helps birdwatchers identify it. Call Description The most well-known vocalization of the crested flycatcher sounds like “wheep” or “weep.” It is a loud, whistled call that starts high and slides down in pitch. This call is often repeated several times in a row, sounding like “wheep, wheep, wheep.” The “wheep” call of the crested flycatcher is very distinctive. It is…
Author: Peter Knight
There are several species of seabirds that are commonly referred to as “boobies”. These birds belong to the genus Sula and are known for their large, round bodies and blunt beaks. So why are they called boobies? There are a few different theories behind the somewhat odd name. Theory 1: Physical Appearance The most obvious theory is that boobies got their name from their distinctive physical appearance. Boobies have large, round bodies that are almost teardrop-shaped. Their necks and heads appear quite small in comparison to their bulky bodies. Additionally, boobies have short, blunt beaks and wide feet that stick…
The English name for a swift bird is simply “swift”. Swifts are medium-sized birds in the Apodidae family that are known for their speedy flight and aerial agility. There are around 100 species of swifts worldwide. Swifts are found on all continents except Antarctica and get their name from their swift, rapid flight. They are sometimes referred to as “devil birds” or “screamers” due to their shrill, loud calls. Swifts spend most of their lives flying and even sleep on the wing. They have long, curved wings for speed and maneuverability in the air. Swifts live on insects they catch…
Birds make a variety of unique and interesting sounds that often reflect their natural environments. While most birdsongs are pleasant to the human ear, some unusual bird vocalizations can sound jarringly unnatural and alarming. One bird in particular is known for its bizarre beeping call that resembles the repetitive noise of an electronic alarm. The alarm-like call belongs to the male brown-headed cowbird, a medium-sized blackbird found across much of North America. The cowbird’s regular sharp, metallic “beep” sounds exactly like the beeping of an alarm clock ortimer. This highly unbirdlike sound is enough to catch any casual listener’s attention.…
Mute swans (Cygnus olor) are one of the most widely recognized waterfowl species in the world. Known for their large size, pure white plumage, and graceful movements, mute swans seem to capture the essence of beauty and elegance. But beyond their striking appearance, mute swans have proven to be tremendously successful birds that thrive across a variety of habitats. So what exactly makes mute swans so successful? There are several key factors that enable mute swans to prosper. Flexible Habitat Use One of the main reasons mute swans are so successful is their ability to live in a wide range…
When it comes to providing nesting boxes for eastern bluebirds, choosing the right size is important for the birds’ comfort and success in raising young. Here are some quick answers on recommended nest box dimensions for this species: What are the standard nest box dimensions for eastern bluebirds? The recommended interior dimensions for an eastern bluebird nest box are: Floor: 4 x 4 inches minimum (5 x 5 inches is better) Depth: 8-12 inches Height: 8-12 inches Entrance Hole: 1.5 inches diameter located 5-6 inches above floor Why are these nest box dimensions recommended? These nest box dimensions are well-suited…
Many birds are most vocal at dawn and dusk, but some species actually become more noisy after dark. Birds that are active at night produce loud calls for several key reasons: defending their territory, attracting mates, navigating in the dark, or as part of their innate biology. Territorial Defense Birds that are most vocal after sunset are often doing so to defend their breeding and roosting territories. By singing at night, they are warning rival males to stay away and alerting any females in the area to their presence. Some examples of birds that sing loudly into the night to…
Colorado is home to several species of herons that can be found across the state. Herons are wading birds in the family Ardeidae that are common sights around wetlands, rivers, lakes, and coastlines. Some of the heron species known to inhabit Colorado include the Great Blue Heron, Green Heron, Black-crowned Night-Heron, and Yellow-crowned Night-Heron. Quick Facts About Herons in Colorado Here are some quick facts about the herons found in Colorado: There are at least 4 species of herons known to breed in Colorado – Great Blue Heron, Green Heron, Black-crowned Night-Heron, and Yellow-crowned Night-Heron. The Great Blue Heron is…
Thrush and yeast infections share some similar symptoms, which can make it difficult to tell them apart. However, thrush and yeast infections are caused by different fungi and affect different parts of the body, so with a proper diagnosis from a doctor, they can usually be distinguished. What is thrush? Thrush is an infection caused by the fungus Candida albicans. It’s also known as oral candidiasis or oropharyngeal candidiasis. Thrush causes white patches to develop on the tongue, inner cheeks, gums, tonsils, or throat. The patches can often be wiped away, revealing a red, inflamed area underneath. Thrush patches may…
The Little Blue Heron is a small wading bird found in coastal regions of North America and Central America. They are a deep blue-gray color as adults, but juveniles are all white. Little Blue Herons are notable for their brightly colored yellow eyes. Understanding the eye color of birds can provide insight into their visual capabilities and ecology. This article will explore what we know about Little Blue Heron eye color and visual systems. Quick Facts on Little Blue Heron Eyes – Adult Little Blue Herons have bright yellow eyes. The yellow color comes from carotenoid pigments. – Juvenile Little…