The black headed ibis (Threskiornis melanocephalus) is a species of wading bird found across parts of Asia, the Middle East, and Sub-Saharan Africa. Understanding where this unique ibis species makes its home can provide insights into its behavioral patterns, conservation status, and relationship with human settlements. Natural Range and Habitat The black headed ibis has an extremely large natural range spanning from India and Sri Lanka eastwards through Southeast Asia to China, and from the Middle East and East Africa southwards to Southern Africa. Its global population is estimated to be between 3-6 million individual birds. This species occupies a…
Author: Peter Knight
The golden-cheeked warbler is a small songbird that breeds exclusively in central Texas. This warbler was officially listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act in 1990 due to habitat loss and fragmentation. The golden-cheeked warbler has been endangered for over 30 years now. Quick Facts on the Golden-Cheeked Warbler’s Endangered Status – The golden-cheeked warbler was officially listed as endangered in 1990. – This warbler breeds only in central Texas and depends on Ashe juniper (cedar) for nesting habitat. – Habitat loss and fragmentation due to development, urbanization, and clearing of cedar woodlands are the main threats. – Estimates…
Egg salad sandwiches are a classic lunch staple that many people enjoy. However, with concerns over cholesterol and fat content in eggs, some wonder if egg salad sandwiches are actually a healthy option. The Nutritional Profile of Egg Salad The main ingredients in egg salad are hard boiled eggs, mayonnaise, and sometimes other additions like mustard, salt, pepper, celery, onion, relish, etc. Here is the basic nutritional profile of the main ingredients: Ingredient Calories Fat Protein Carbs 1 large hard boiled egg 78 5g 6g 0.6g 1 Tbsp mayonnaise 90 10g 0g 0g As you can see, eggs and mayonnaise…
The California clapper rail (Rallus longirostris obsoletus) is a highly endangered subspecies of the clapper rail that is found exclusively in the San Francisco Bay Area. As of 2021, there were an estimated 1,500 California clapper rails left in the wild. This bird faces numerous threats to its survival, including predation from a variety of animals. Mammals Several mammalian predators prey on the California clapper rail. Some of the main ones are: Red fox – An invasive species that was introduced to California in the 1900s, red foxes are prolific predators of clapper rails, especially eggs and chicks. Raccoon -…
Poultry diseases can cause significant economic losses to poultry farmers through increased mortality, reduced egg production, reduced growth rates, and increased costs of medication and vaccinations. Preventing poultry diseases is crucial for maintaining healthy flocks and profitable poultry operations. Biosecurity Measures Implementing strict biosecurity measures is the most effective way to prevent introduction and spread of infectious diseases in poultry flocks. Biosecurity refers to management practices that prevent contact between domestic poultry and disease agents carried by other animals, people, or the environment. Good biosecurity practices include: Restricting access to the poultry house – Allow only essential workers and implement…
Chimney swifts are small, dark colored birds that nest and roost in chimneys and other vertical structures. Once abundant across North America, chimney swift populations have seen significant declines in recent decades, leading some to wonder – are chimney swifts rare? Quick Answer: Are Chimney Swifts Rare? Yes, chimney swifts are now considered a rare bird species. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), chimney swifts are listed as Near Threatened and their populations have decreased by over 30% since the 1960s. The major causes of the chimney swift decline are loss of nesting and roosting habitat.…
Yes, there are goldfinches in Maryland. The American goldfinch (Spinus tristis) is a small North American bird in the finch family. Its summer range spans most of North America except for the far north and far south. These colorful little birds can be found across the state of Maryland. Quick Facts About Goldfinches Here are some key facts about goldfinches: Scientific Name: Spinus tristis Other Common Names: Wild canary, yellowbird Size: 4.3 to 5.1 inches long with a wingspan of 7.5 to 8.7 inches Color: Bright yellow body with black wings, white wing bars, and black tail Habitat: Weedy fields,…
Deformed bills in birds can occur for a variety of reasons, both natural and unnatural. Some birds are born with genetic mutations that cause bill deformities. Others develop deformities later in life due to injury, disease, or environmental factors. While deformities can negatively impact a bird’s ability to feed and preen, some have adapted remarkably well to life with an unusual bill shape. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the bird species most commonly affected by bill deformities and explore some of the potential causes behind crooked, crossed, overgrown and otherwise irregular bills. Causes of Bill…
Birds that are small in size and have red or pink cheeks are typically from the finch family. The most common small birds with red cheeks are house finches, purple finches, Cassin’s finches, and pine siskins. Many backyard bird enthusiasts are familiar withhouse finches, which are native to the western United States but have spread to become one of the most common feeder birds in North America. The males have red heads and breasts that vary in intensity by season, while females have subtle streaking on their underparts. Purple finches look very similar to house finches but are not as…
Hummingbirds are known for their small size, rapid wing beats, and ability to hover in midair. They are found only in the Americas. Of the over 300 hummingbird species, most have colorful plumage that can shine bright red, blue, green, or a mix of colors. However, some species are identified by distinct markings like a black ring around their neck. Ruby-throated Hummingbird The Ruby-throated Hummingbird (Archilochus colubris) is the most common and widespread hummingbird in eastern North America. The adult male Ruby-throat has metallic green upperparts, gray underparts, and a brilliant metallic red throat patch or gorget. As the name…