The Common Goldeneye (Bucephala clangula) is a medium-sized diving duck that breeds across the northern parts of Eurasia and North America. In North America it is usually called just “Goldeneye”. As their name suggests, Common Goldeneyes are distinguished by their golden-yellow eyes. They exhibit sexual dimorphism, meaning that males and females have different plumage. Males have a greenish-black head with a circular white patch between the eye and bill, a dark back, and a white underside. Females have a chocolate brown head and a grayish brown body. Both sexes have grey wings with black wingtips. Common Goldeneyes are medium-sized ducks,…
Author: Peter Knight
Barn owls, like all animals, do experience emotions. However, their emotions are more basic than human emotions. Here’s a quick overview of what we know about barn owl emotions: Do barn owls feel fear? Yes, barn owls definitely feel fear. When frightened, barn owls will freeze and stare at the perceived threat. Their heart rate increases and their eyes open wide. They may also make alarm calls to warn other barn owls of danger. Do barn owls feel stress? Barn owls can feel stress, usually caused by environmental factors like loud noises, bright lights, and lack of food. Signs of…
The Gadwall is a common species of duck found across North America and Eurasia. They are a medium-sized duck with intricate black, white, and gray plumage. Gadwalls are known for their unique courtship displays and vocalizations. But what exactly do you call a Gadwall? There are a few common names used for this species. Common Names Some of the most widely used common names for the Gadwall duck include: Gadwall Gray Duck German Duck Gadwall is the most frequently used common name for this species. It refers specifically to the Eurasian population. The name “Gadwall” comes from the old English…
Many dog owners allow their pets to drink from bird baths in their yards. Bird baths can seem like convenient water sources for thirsty dogs on hot days. However, there are some risks associated with dogs drinking from birdbaths that owners should consider. In this article, we will explore the potential dangers along with tips for keeping your dog safe if they do drink from a bird bath. Can Dogs Drink from Bird Baths? The short answer is yes, dogs can physically drink water from bird baths. However, there are some important factors and risks to consider before allowing your…
Parrots are a diverse and fascinating group of birds that have captivated humans for centuries. Known for their intelligence, vibrant plumage, and ability to imitate human speech, parrots make charismatic companion animals. But beyond the parrots we know as pets, there is an entire world of parrot diversity encompassing hundreds of unique species found across the globe. Quick Facts on Parrot Species There are over 350 parrot species in the world today. The exact number is difficult to pin down, as new species continue to be identified and taxonomy is frequently revised. Here are some quick facts on the diversity…
When getting a new pet bird, providing safe toys is an important part of setting up their environment. Birds are intelligent, active animals that need mental stimulation and physical activity to stay happy and healthy. The right toys can provide enriching playtime and prevent problematic behaviors like screeching or feather plucking. However, not all toys are safe for our feathered friends. Certain materials, parts, and designs can pose health risks or even be deadly if ingested. So it’s critical for bird owners to do their research before buying toys. This article will cover what bird owners need to know about…
Cardinals are a type of bird that belong to the family Cardinalidae. There are 19 species of cardinal, found primarily in North and South America. The Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) is one of the most recognizable and popular birds in North America. Cardinals are medium-sized songbirds with distinctive bright red plumage. The male Northern Cardinal has a bright red body, a black face mask, and a prominent red crest on top of its head. Females are mostly brown, with some red in their wings and tail feathers. Cardinals live in a variety of semi-open and open habitats, including shrublands, woodland…
The gadwall drake is a species of duck found across North America, Europe, and Asia. It is a medium-sized duck with gray plumage and a black rear end. The gadwall drake is an important game duck for hunters and a favorite among birdwatchers. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about the gadwall drake including its appearance, habitat, diet, breeding, and more. What Does a Gadwall Drake Look Like? The gadwall drake has elegant plumage in shades of gray and black. The head is light brown with fine vermiculations. The breast is pale gray, and the…
The red phalarope (Phalaropus fulicarius) is a small shorebird that breeds in the Arctic regions and migrates south to spend winters at sea. Red phalaropes have a distinctive appearance and behavior that sets them apart from other phalarope species. In this article, we will explore where red phalaropes live throughout their annual cycle of breeding, migration, and wintering. Breeding Range Red phalaropes breed in the high Arctic regions of North America and Eurasia. Their nesting range extends from Alaska across northern Canada and Greenland. In Europe and Asia, they breed from Scandinavia across Russia to Siberia and Kamchatka. Some key…
The big yellow bird commonly seen in Costa Rica is the Great Green Macaw. Also known as Buffon’s Macaw or Great Military Macaw, this large parrot is native to Central and South America and can be found in several countries including Costa Rica. With its distinctive green plumage and bright yellow/orange upper chest, the Great Green Macaw is easily recognizable. Though threatened by habitat loss and poaching, conservation efforts in Costa Rica have helped protect populations of this magnificent bird. Description The Great Green Macaw (Ara ambiguus) is a member of the macaw family. It is a large parrot, measuring…