The Mississippi kite (Ictinia mississippiensis) is a medium-sized bird of prey that is found primarily in the southern United States. These graceful fliers are a common sight in the skies above fields, forests, and urban areas during the summer months. Despite their prevalence across the Southeast, Mississippi kites have a reputation for being quite docile and non-aggressive birds. However, some key facts about their behavior and natural history reveal a more complex picture of how aggressive these raptors truly are. By investigating specifics around their diet, breeding habits, and interactions with humans, we can better understand if Mississippi kites are…
Author: Peter Knight
Birdwatching is a popular hobby for many people. Watching colorful songbirds visit your backyard feeders can be a delightful way to connect with nature. When setting up bird feeders, it is important to consider the needs of the specific birds you want to attract. Small bird species have unique requirements for bird feeders that will allow them access to food without competition from larger birds. What are some common small bird species? Some of the most common small bird species seen at backyard feeders in North America include: Chickadees Nuthatches Titmouse Finches Wrens Warblers Kinglets Chickadees, nuthatches and titmice are…
Bluebirds are beautiful songbirds that can add color and life to any backyard in California. With their bright blue feathers and cheerful songs, bluebirds are a joy to watch. However, attracting these lovely birds takes a bit of planning and effort. By providing the right habitat, food sources, and nesting sites, you can encourage bluebirds to take up residence in your yard. What do bluebirds eat? Bluebirds are omnivores, feeding on a variety of insects and berries. Some of their favorite foods include: Mealworms Crickets Grasshoppers Spiders Caterpillars Beetles Ants Berries Fruits To attract bluebirds to your yard, providing a…
The Montezuma quail, also known as Mearn’s quail, is a type of game bird found in parts of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. In Texas, Montezuma quail populations are found in the Trans-Pecos region, particularly around the Davis Mountains. This medium-sized quail species prefers arid grasslands and oak savannas at higher elevations. Montezuma quail are challenging to hunt due to their secretive nature and tendency to run rather than fly when startled. However, pursuing these birds can provide a fun and rewarding hunt for dedicated upland bird hunters in Texas. Is Montezuma Quail Hunting Legal in Texas? Yes,…
The Reddish Egret (Egretta rufescens) is a relatively rare wading bird found along the coastlines of North America. With its distinctive pinkish-red plumage and acrobatic feeding style, this egret is a unique sight for birdwatchers. But just how rare is this species? In this article, we’ll examine the Reddish Egret’s conservation status, population, range, and habitat to understand its current rarity. Conservation Status The Reddish Egret is considered a species of conservation concern by several organizations: It is listed as “Near Threatened” on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. This means it is close to qualifying for “Vulnerable” status.…
Quick Answers Seeing a White-crowned Sparrow can have several meanings: It indicates the presence of the bird in your area, as the species has a large range across North America. It is a sign of spring or autumn migration, as the birds migrate between their breeding and wintering grounds. It may signify suitable habitat, as the birds prefer brushy areas with scrubby vegetation. Spotting one may simply mean you are observant and paying attention to the nature around you. Overview of the White-crowned Sparrow The White-crowned Sparrow (Zonotrichia leucophrys) is a medium-sized sparrow found widely across North America. Identifying features…
Chanel the African grey parrot went missing from her home in California in late 2022, sparking a widespread search effort by her owners and many others hoping to reunite the beloved bird with her family. As of October 2023, over a year later, Chanel still has not been found. Here are some key questions and answers about Chanel’s disappearance and the extensive search for her: When and where did Chanel go missing? Chanel went missing from her home in Orange County, California on September 19, 2022. Her owners reported that she had been playing in the backyard like normal, but…
Birds eat salt for a few important reasons: Electrolyte balance Just like humans, birds need sodium and chloride (which together make up table salt) to maintain proper electrolyte balance. Electrolytes help regulate hydration and allow for proper muscle and nerve function. Without adequate electrolytes, birds can experience problems like weakness, lethargy, and heart abnormalities. Salt provides an efficient electrolyte source for wild birds. Digestive health Salt aids digestion in birds. The sodium in salt helps stimulate the bird’s digestive enzymes. This facilitates proper digestion and nutrient absorption from the foods they eat. Additionally, salt can help purge toxins from a…
The Wood Thrush (Hylocichla mustelina) is a medium-sized North American thrush. Its breeding habitat is deciduous and mixed forests across eastern North America. The Wood Thrush has a large breeding range from southern Canada to northern Florida, and as far west as eastern Texas. However, its population has declined significantly in recent decades due to habitat loss and fragmentation. Understanding the geographic range of the Wood Thrush is important for conservation efforts. Breeding Range The Wood Thrush breeds in the eastern United States and southeastern Canada. According to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, the northern limit of its breeding range…
Quick Answer The Pyrrhuloxia is a species of bird that is often confused with the Northern Cardinal due to their similar bright red plumage. However, the Pyrrhuloxia and Northern Cardinal are two distinct species within the genus Cardinalis. The Pyrrhuloxia is native to the southwestern United States and Mexico, while the Northern Cardinal has a much wider range across eastern North America. The two species have different calls and songs, as well as slight differences in their appearance and behavior. So while the Pyrrhuloxia is closely related to and bears a strong resemblance to the Northern Cardinal, it is considered…