There are many reasons why someone may end up with a pet bird that they can no longer properly care for. Perhaps your living situation changed and you can no longer accommodate the bird, or you took in a bird that someone else could no longer care for only to discover you are unable to meet its needs. Whatever the reason, finding yourself responsible for a bird you know you cannot provide a good home for can be an incredibly difficult situation. The most important thing is to make sure the bird ultimately ends up in a good home -…
Author: Peter Knight
The term “birdbox” has gained popularity in recent years thanks to the wildly successful 2018 Netflix film of the same name. However, the origins of the word “birdbox” and its various meanings are still unclear to many people. In this comprehensive article, we will explore the history of the term “birdbox,” examine how its definition has evolved over time, and outline its significance in popular culture today. The Origins of “Birdbox” While the term “birdbox” entered mainstream consciousness in 2018, its history stretches back much farther. The first known use of the word dates to the 16th century. In the…
Birds are one of the most diverse groups of vertebrates on Earth, with nearly 10,000 living species inhabiting environments from the Arctic to the Antarctic. Their great diversity stems from over 150 million years of evolution that has allowed them to adapt to a wide range of ecological niches. But what exactly makes birds so varied compared to other animals? Several key factors contribute to avian diversity. Feathered flight The evolution of feathers and powered flight was a major innovation that allowed birds to disperse across the globe and occupy new environments. Flight facilitated birds spreading to isolated habitats like…
The Northern Pygmy-Owl (Glaucidium gnoma) is a small owl native to northern North America. Despite their name, Northern Pygmy-Owls are not considered rare across most of their range. However, their populations can be sparse in certain areas and they face some conservation threats. In the opening paragraphs, it is important to provide quick answers to key questions readers may have: Are Northern Pygmy-Owls rare? Not generally, although their populations are sparse in some regions. Overall they have a large range across northern North America and are considered common in many areas. What is the conservation status of Northern Pygmy-Owls? The…
The black lamb and grey falcon are two important symbols that appear in the travel book Black Lamb and Grey Falcon: A Journey Through Yugoslavia, written by Rebecca West and published in 1941. This massive book, over 1,100 pages long, recounts West’s extensive travels through Yugoslavia in 1937 and delves deeply into the history, culture, and politics of the Balkan region. The black lamb and grey falcon emerge as recurring motifs throughout West’s epic account. The Black Lamb The black lamb symbolizes the history of oppression, violence, and sacrifice experienced by the South Slavic people who inhabited Yugoslavia. Black is…
The Ebird white faced storm petrel is a small seabird in the storm petrel family Hydrobatidae. It is named for its distinctive white face and black cap. Also known as the white-faced storm petrel or white-faced petrel, this species breeds on islands in the tropical and subtropical areas of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans. The Ebird white faced storm petrel is highly pelagic, spending most of its life far out at sea and only returning to land to breed. It is known for its erratic, fluttering flight low over the ocean surface as it feeds on fish, squid, and…
There are several types of long billed birds that wade in water to find food. The most well known of these are herons, egrets, ibises, spoonbills, and storks. These birds all have long legs, necks, and bills that allow them to wade through shallow water and catch fish, amphibians, and invertebrates. In this article we will take a closer look at the characteristics and behaviors of these fascinating wading birds. Herons and Egrets Herons and egrets comprise the family Ardeidae, which includes about 64 species of long-legged wading birds. They can be found on every continent except Antarctica. Some of…
Birds make a variety of vocalizations, from soft coos and chirps to loud screeches and screams. The types of sounds they produce depend on the species, as well as factors like alarm, territory defense, courtship, feeding chicks, and more. So which birds are the screamers of the avian world? Birds That Scream as an Alarm Call Some birds scream loudly when they sense danger or want to warn others of a threat. This mobbing behavior serves to scare predators away and alert other birds in the area. Birds known for their alarm screams include: Blue Jays – Their harsh “thief”…
Prairie chickens are a type of grouse that live in the prairies of the central United States. There are two main species of prairie chickens: the greater prairie chicken and the lesser prairie chicken. Prairie chickens were once abundant across the Great Plains, but their populations have declined significantly due to habitat loss. However, they remain popular game birds for hunting in states where populations have remained stable. This article will examine if and how prairie chickens can legally be hunted. Can Prairie Chickens Be Hunted? Yes, prairie chickens can be legally hunted in certain areas and during specific seasons…
Quick Answer Yes, you can wash most Osprey bags in a washing machine, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Use a gentle cycle, cold water only, and a mild detergent. Do not use fabric softener. Remove all items from pockets first and close all zippers, straps, and buckles. It’s also best to place the bag in a laundry bag or pillowcase before washing. Avoid putting Osprey bags in the dryer, air dry only. What Is an Osprey Bag? Osprey is a popular brand that makes high quality, durable backpacks and bags for hiking, travel, and everyday…