Hawks are fascinating birds of prey that are found on every continent except Antarctica. Many species of hawks migrate long distances each year, traveling between their breeding grounds and their wintering grounds. The timing of migration can vary for different species and populations of hawks, but generally occurs in the spring and fall as hawks move to habitats with abundant food and favorable breeding conditions. When do hawks migrate? Most hawks that migrate do so in the spring and fall. The exact timing depends on the species and local conditions. Here is an overview of when some common North American…
Author: Peter Knight
Preening and allopreening are grooming behaviors seen in birds. Both behaviors involve using the beak to tend to feathers, but there are some key differences between preening and allopreening. Preening refers to a bird grooming its own feathers. It is an important part of a bird’s daily routine and serves several functions. Preening helps align feathers, distribute protective oils, and remove dirt or parasites. Most birds spend a significant amount of time preening each day. It is an instinctive solitary activity. Allopreening refers to grooming between two birds. One bird will gently preen the head, neck, or body feathers of…
The kiwi is a unique and fascinating bird native to New Zealand. When a female kiwi is ready to lay an egg, an intricate process begins that sets the kiwi apart from other birds. Kiwis go through physiological and behavioral changes leading up to egg laying, followed by the egg development and brooding process. When does a female kiwi lay eggs? Kiwis are seasonal breeders, meaning they only lay eggs at certain times of the year. The breeding season for most kiwi species is between June and March. Some key things happen leading up to the breeding season for a…
The Eurasian collared-dove (Streptopelia decaocto) is considered an invasive species in many parts of the world outside its native range. This medium-sized dove originally comes from Asia and Europe, but has colonized new areas rapidly in recent decades. There are several reasons why the Eurasian collared-dove is so successful at establishing itself in new regions: Rapid reproduction rate Eurasian collared-doves can reproduce quickly and often. The females can lay clutches of 1-3 eggs up to 6 times per year. They reach sexual maturity early, at around 5-6 months old. This high reproductive rate allows their populations to grow rapidly once…
The Broad-winged Hawk is a medium-sized hawk found in forests across much of North America. With its distinctive broad, rounded wings and wingtips that curl up slightly when soaring, this buteo is a treat to observe gliding over the treetops. Though it lives in some of the most populated parts of North America, the Broad-winged Hawk is considered one of the continent’s less common raptors. Just how rare is this forest falcon? Let’s take a closer look at the Broad-winged Hawk’s conservation status, population numbers, geographic range, and habitat to understand its current rarity. Conservation Status The leading authority on…
The Ruby-crowned Kinglet is one of the smallest songbirds in North America. Weighing only about 5 grams and measuring just 4 inches in length, these tiny birds can be challenging to spot as they flit actively among branches. Their vibrant greenish plumage allows them to blend into foliage, while their incessant movement and high-pitched call notes give away their presence. Determining exactly how big Ruby-crowned Kinglets are requires looking closely at their diminutive stature. By considering their minuscule measurements, featherweights, and miniature features, we can fully appreciate the petite proportions of these spritely sprites. Tiny Measurements At just 4 inches…
Kinglets are a group of small songbirds in the genus Regulus. There are seven species of kinglets found throughout North America, Europe, and Asia. Kinglets are known for their hyperactive behavior, constantly moving through vegetation in search of insects and spiders. Their small size, frequent movements, and high-pitched calls make them challenging to observe clearly. However, their behaviors provide insight into their adaptations for survival. What are kinglets? Kinglets are tiny songbirds, measuring only 3-4 inches in length. The smallest North American species, the Ruby-crowned Kinglet, weighs a mere 4-7 grams. Kinglets have compact bodies, short wings, and slim bills…
The bird that is most famous for its characteristic cackling call is the chicken. Chickens are a domesticated fowl that are raised throughout the world as a source of food in the form of eggs and meat. The cackling of chickens is an iconic sound that is immediately recognizable as being associated with farms and rural country life. Origin of the Chicken Cackle Chickens are descendants of the red junglefowl, a bird native to Asia. The red junglefowl makes a variety of clucks and cackles, which chickens have inherited. Mother hens cluck to communicate with their chicks, and roosters crow…
ATVs (all-terrain vehicles), also known as quad bikes, are motorized off-road vehicles with four low-pressure tires, a straddle seat for the operator, and handlebars for steering control. They are designed for use on rough terrain and have high ground clearance and a powerful engine. Some key facts about ATVs: ATVs can weigh over 1000 pounds and reach speeds of over 75 mph There are around 10 million ATVs used recreationally in the United States ATV riding is popular for recreation, farming, ranching and other utilitarian purposes Over 28% of ATV riders are under age 16 While ATVs can be useful…
The scissor-tailed flycatcher (Tyrannus forficatus) is a fascinating bird species native to parts of North and Central America. Some key interesting facts about this unique bird include: What they look like Scissor-tailed flycatchers are medium-sized birds that get their name from their extremely long, forked tail feathers that can measure up to 20 cm. These elongated feathers look like an open pair of scissors when the bird is perched. Their plumage is pale gray on top and white below. They have salmon-pink flanks, and their wings are black with white patches. Where they live Scissor-tailed flycatchers breed in the central…