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Cover image: “Kakapo chick” by Dianne Mason, Department of Conservation is licensed under CC BY 2.0. New Zealand only has about 250 bird species that are observed in the country annually. Although this is a nominal number of birds, many of the avifauna native to this island are utterly unique. Indeed, New Zealand is a … Read more
Many UK residents are quite familiar with sparrowhawks, as these birds of prey are among the most common UK raptors. A far cry from the massive eagles of the UK, sparrowhawks are nonetheless capable predators. Although plenty have observed sparrowhawks, few know the facts regarding these birds. Indeed, some are convinced that sparrowhawks are responsible … Read more
No one will dispute the aptness with which woodpeckers have been named. Indeed, this diverse family of birds contains more than 230 woodpecker species. However, despite this diversity, all woodpeckers share a fondness for pecking wood. So, what’s up with this habitat – why do woodpeckers peck wood? Moreover, do woodpeckers kill trees? Although it’s … Read more
Crows are one of the most visible groups of birds in the world, often living close to humans. Crows typically fly solo or with their mate during the breeding season, but we may notice that crows seem to disappear from certain areas during the winter. So, are crows migratory – do crows migrate in winter? … Read more
Why do owls make noise at night? Those who have spent enough time outdoors have surely heard an owl hoot. No matter if you heard this vocalization on a camping trip or in your own backyard, owl hoots are certainly memorable. However, some may want to know more about owl noises at night. So, why … Read more
Loons—otherwise known as “divers” in British English—are charismatic creatures that are enjoyed by birders and nonbirders alike. Although they are quite graceful in the water, loons are notoriously clumsy on land. In fact, this awkwardness on land is how they earned their names. Loons are a family that has evolved to have little need to … Read more
Georgia is a welcoming place for finches, as many Georgians are keen on feeding these charming songbirds. Although Georgia has one more regular finch species than neighboring Florida thanks to the Appalachian Mountains, Georgia finches are still not very diverse – being on par with North Carolina and having five expected finches. No matter, finding … Read more
With about 11,000 birds in existence, there are bound to be some birds with funny names. Indeed, ornithologists did not disappoint, as dozens of birds have been given humorous names. Some bird names go beyond humor, being just plain strange. However, this list will focus on funny bird names. I’ve compiled a list below of … Read more
Seeing a bird with mohawk-like feathers certainly makes such a bird memorable, but it also raises plenty of questions. For instance, why do birds with mohawks exist? What is the purpose of such an appearance? Hang tight – I will answer your questions about how a bird with mohawk-like feathers may have evolved. Plus, I’ll … Read more
Purple Martins are gorgeous swallows that can be found across much of North America. Many love to see them because of their attractive appearance, and there are plenty of people interested in attracting Purple Martins to their properties. However, before you can host these stunning swallows, you’ll have to know more about Purple Martin diets. … Read more