The bird survey method refers to a set of techniques used to estimate bird populations and diversity in a given area. It involves standardized counts of birds along set routes or at fixed points during set time periods. The data collected from bird surveys allow researchers to monitor populations and track changes over time. This provides an important tool for assessing the impacts of habitat change, climate change, and other factors on bird communities. Bird surveys are a critical component of avian conservation and management programs. What are the main types of bird survey methods? There are several common bird…
Author: Peter Knight
Purple finches are a type of wild bird that can be found across parts of North America. Their range extends across Canada and the northern United States, including states like Minnesota. So yes, purple finches can be found in Minnesota. What is a Purple Finch? The purple finch (Haemorhous purpureus) is a species of finch native to North America. They are medium-sized songbirds with short, forked tails and notched tails. Male purple finches have bright raspberry red plumage on their heads, breasts, backs and rumps. Their bellies are white or whitish, and they have brown wings and tails. Females are…
Equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM) is a potentially serious neurologic disease of horses caused by infection with the protozoan parasite Sarcocystis neurona. This parasite has a complex life cycle involving multiple host species. Opossums are the definitive host, meaning the parasite reproduces sexually in the opossum gastrointestinal tract. Horses are intermediate hosts, meaning they can be infected by ingesting S. neurona spores shed in the feces of opossums, but the parasite does not reproduce sexually in horses. EPM occurs when S. neurona migrates to and damages the central nervous system of infected horses. Given this complex life cycle involving multiple hosts,…
Pigeons are unique birds that exhibit fascinating courtship and mating behaviors. When pigeons decide to mate, they go through a complex process of courting, bonding, and finally mating. Understanding what pigeon mating looks like provides insights into their reproductive biology and behaviors. How do pigeons choose a mate? Pigeons form monogamous pairs that can last for life. The male will initiate courtship by following the female around and bowing, cooing, and puffing his feathers. This serves to show off his appearance and health. The female will observe multiple males before deciding on a suitable partner. Factors like the male’s displays,…
The phrase “breaker breaker” is commonly associated with truckers using CB radios to communicate on the road. However, there is one particular bird species that has been observed using a call that sounds like “breaker breaker”: the northern mockingbird. The northern mockingbird is known for its ability to mimic sounds and calls of other birds and animals. Some individuals have been documented mimicking sounds like car alarms, barking dogs, and even cell phone ringtones. So it’s no surprise that mockingbirds in certain areas have incorporated trucker jargon into their vocal repertoire. The Northern Mockingbird The northern mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos) is…
The White-breasted Nuthatch (Sitta carolinensis) is a small songbird found throughout much of North America. These active little birds are a familiar sight at backyard bird feeders, where they quickly dart in to grab a sunflower seed before scurrying up or down tree trunks. Nuthatches get their name from their habit of jamming large nuts and seeds into tree bark and then whacking them with their bills to “hatch” them open. In addition to sunflower seeds, they also eat insects, spiders, nuts, and acorns. Nuthatches are secondary cavity nesters, meaning they don’t excavate their own nesting cavities but instead rely…
The dots that can be seen on baby birds’ mouths are called egg teeth. Egg teeth are small, hard, pointy bumps that form on the tip of a baby bird’s beak while it is still developing inside the egg. The egg tooth helps the baby bird chip away at the eggshell from the inside, allowing it to break out once it is fully developed. What are egg teeth made of? Egg teeth are made of keratin, the same material that makes up human fingernails, bird claws, and horns on animals. Keratin is very tough and durable, perfect for allowing a…
Birds of paradise are known for their vibrant, colorful flowers that look almost otherworldly. However, if the leaves on your bird of paradise start turning yellow, it can be cause for concern. Yellow leaves on a bird of paradise typically indicate some type of cultural or environmental issue that needs to be addressed. With the right troubleshooting and adjustments, you can get your bird of paradise back to its beautiful, green glory. Why Do Bird of Paradise Leaves Turn Yellow? There are a few key reasons why the leaves on a bird of paradise might start to yellow: Improper watering…
Yes, House Finches are found throughout Oregon. The House Finch is a common bird that was introduced to the western United States from the east in the 1940s. They are now well-established across Oregon and can be found in urban, suburban, and rural habitats. Quick Facts About House Finches in Oregon Range: Found across all regions of Oregon, including the coast, Willamette Valley, Cascades, eastern Oregon, etc. Habitat: Parks, neighborhoods, farms, woodlands. They thrive around human development. Abundance: Very common. Oregon’s most numerous songbird. Breeding: Nest March through August. Multiple broods per season. Diet: Seeds, buds, fruits. Will visit bird…
Parrots are popular pet birds that are kept by bird enthusiasts around the world. Like all animals, parrots require a balanced diet to stay healthy. An important consideration for parrot owners is whether foods like salt are safe for parrots to consume. In this article, we will examine the effects of salt on parrot health and diet. Is Salt Toxic to Parrots? Salt, or sodium chloride, in moderate amounts is not overtly toxic or immediately harmful to most parrots. However, very high amounts of salt can cause health problems in parrots, especially small parrot species. Some of the effects of…