Lovebirds are small parrots that are known for forming strong bonds with their mates. They are incredibly social birds that thrive when kept in pairs. Lovebirds are also brightly colored, charismatic, and can even learn to talk a little. Their energetic, affectionate nature makes them extremely popular as pets. However, before bringing one of these feathery companions home, it is important to understand the costs associated with properly caring for a lovebird. Upfront costs of purchasing a lovebird The initial cost of purchasing a lovebird from a breeder can range from $15 to $100 depending on factors like age, color…
Author: Peter Knight
The greater yellowlegs is a medium-sized shorebird belonging to the genus Tringa in the family Scolopacidae. It breeds in northern North America and winters along the Atlantic and Pacific coasts of North America, Central America, the Caribbean, and South America. Two subspecies are recognized: T. m. melanoleuca breeds in eastern and central Canada and winters along the Atlantic coast, while T. m. gambeli breeds in Alaska and winters along the Pacific coast. The greater yellowlegs is a slate gray bird with long yellow legs and a long, slightly upturned bill. It is similar in appearance to the smaller, more common…
Birds have evolved many anatomical and physiological adaptations that enable them to fly. Flight allows birds to better find food and mates, escape predators, and migrate long distances. There are four key adaptations that enable bird flight: Lightweight skeleton Birds have lightweight, hollow bones that provide strength without excessive weight. Their bones are filled with air sacs that connect to the lungs and respiratory system. This unique bone structure makes the entire skeleton lighter. For example, the bones of a frigatebird are hollow and full of air sacs, allowing this large seabird to be lighter and more buoyant in flight.…
Birds singing beautiful songs is a sure sign of spring. But as summer approaches, many birds become less vocal and eventually stop singing altogether. Why do birds stop singing in summer? There are several reasons for this behavioral change. Breeding Season Ends For many birds, singing is primarily a mating behavior. Males sing to attract females and defend territories during the breeding season. But once eggs are laid and chicks hatch, there is less need for prolonged singing. The breeding season ends and parent birds become focused on raising their young rather than advertising for new mates. Species like robins…
The Eastern Kingbird is a medium-sized songbird found across North America. It is known for its black head and back, white underparts, and gray wings. Eastern Kingbirds build intricate nests high up in trees to raise their young. But what exactly does an Eastern Kingbird nest look like? Nest Appearance Eastern Kingbird nests are compact, sturdy structures made up of twigs, grass, moss, feathers, and other materials. They are cup-shaped, with inner dimensions averaging 4 inches wide and 2.5 inches deep. The nest’s exterior typically measures 6-7 inches across and 3-5 inches high. The outer shell of the nest is…
Robins are a familiar sight in backyards and gardens across North America and Europe. With their bright red or orange chests and cheerful song, these birds are a beloved sign of spring. But why are they called “robins” in the first place? The origin of their name provides an interesting glimpse into the history of ornithology and bird naming conventions. In this article, we’ll explore the possible origins of the name “robin” for this common songbird. We’ll look at some of the leading theories from linguistic history and ornithology. Understanding how birds get their common names can shed light on…
Robins are a familiar sight in backyards and parks, recognizable by their bright red breasts and cheerful chirping. But why exactly do they chirp at each other? The chirping serves several important purposes for these songbirds. Territory Defense One key reason robins chirp is to defend their territory. Male robins in particular are very territorial during breeding season. They stake out a specific area containing their nest and prime food sources. Intruding robins will be seen as competition and chased out with aggressive chirping and even physical attacks. The chirping helps define the territory boundaries and warn intruders away. Chirping…
Birds, like humans, enjoy playing with toys! While wild birds primarily play with natural items they find in their environment, pet birds often play with commercial bird toys that owners provide for enrichment. Playing is important for birds, as it helps stave off boredom and promotes both mental and physical exercise. The types of toys birds play with depends on factors like the bird’s size, personality, natural behavior, and habitat. Read on to learn about some of the most common toys pet birds and wild birds like to play with! What Kinds of Toys Do Pet Birds Like? Pet birds…
Quick Answer No, a sparrowhawk and a Cooper’s hawk are two different species of hawk. The sparrowhawk is a bird of prey in the genus Accipiter, while the Cooper’s hawk is a medium-sized hawk native to North America. Though they have some similarities in appearance and behavior, they are distinct species with key differences. Differences Between Sparrowhawks and Cooper’s Hawks While sparrowhawks and Cooper’s hawks share some traits, there are several key differences between the two species: Size and Shape Sparrowhawks are small, slender hawks with long tails and wings, while Cooper’s hawks have a larger, broader shape and proportionately…
Birds have a wide range of bite forces depending on the species. Some birds like parrots and raptors have very strong bites, while other birds like hummingbirds have very weak bite forces. The bite force of a bird is related to its diet and feeding habits. Birds that crack hard nuts and seeds or tear meat tend to have the strongest bites. Let’s take a closer look at the bite force of different types of birds. Bite Force of Seed-Eating Birds Seed-eating birds like parrots and parakeets have evolved strong, powerful beaks to crack open hard nuts and seeds. The…