With the rolling, forested southern hills and gradual transition to a mosaic of open lands containing prairie and agriculture in the north, Missouri would seem to be a tremendous spot to find owls. However, is the habitat too good to be true – are there owls in Missouri? Yes, there are—indeed–a variety of different types … Read more
The hot and humid climate of Florida supports an assortment of different bird species. Indeed, Florida is home to a fantastic assortment of raptors and birds that thrive in wetlands. However, many are interested in knowing more about Florida’s smallest birds: hummingbirds. Fortunately, those who wish to know about the hummingbirds in Florida are in … Read more
Blue Jays are well-known for their brash personalities that seem to be in direct conflict with their beautiful appearance. Indeed, Blue Jays are bolder than most birds, but many consider these birds with mohawks to be meaner than other birds as well. Is this assertion justified – are Blue Jays mean, and if so, why … Read more
Residents of the United Kingdom are doubtlessly familiar with doves. Indeed, it is almost a guarantee that a pigeon will be observed on a walk through a city, while collared-doves are regular sights in quiet towns and neighbourhoods. Though everyone in the UK has likely seen a dove, few are familiar with the diversity of … Read more
Mourning Doves are common in both rural and urban areas alike, frequently taking up residence in neighborhoods. Despite their apparent abundance, Mourning Doves are subtle nesters, and the majority of people will never observe a Mourning Dove nest. So, where do Mourning Doves nest to be able to conceal their nests so well? Moreover, when … Read more
The tranquil coo of a Mourning Dove is among the most peaceful sounds that can be heard in North America, but some are concerned about the supposed disappearance of Mourning Doves. Indeed, many wonder, “Why don’t I hear Mourning Doves anymore?”. Are Mourning Doves going extinct, or what is the reason for their absence from … Read more
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? Those interested … 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