New Genetic Research Turns Bird Families Upside Down
A recent study of bird genetics has researchers startled with surprising new findings. After completing the largest study of bird genetics ever undertaken, U.S. researchers are discovering that a number of birds are not as closely related to similar bird species as was previously thought.
Amazing Migration Survival Tactics
Ongoing ornithological research continues to confirm what keen bird-watchers have suspected all along – their feathered friends are highly intelligent and adaptive, with an amazing array of communication skills. A new study conducted by researchers at Queen’s University in Washington has revealed that migrating songbirds rely on the behavior of local resident birds to assist them in avoiding predators during migration.
Bird Watchers and Advanced Technology Contribute to Complex Biodiversity Study
Dedicated volunteer bird-watchers covered around 3,500 routes across the United States, Canada and Alaska as participants in the North American Breeding Bird survey. This data is being used by the Montana State University (MSU) in a study that examines biodiversity across North America. Together with additional information gathered by a satellite sensor developed at the university, researchers are gaining tremendous insight on issues such as conservation and land use.
The National Birds of Prey Center in Gloucestershire
The National Birds of Prey Center, located near Newent in Gloucestershire, is one of Britain’s premiere attractions and one of the top birds of prey centers in the United Kingdom. It is home to roughly 170 different birds of prey, including 22 species of eagles, falcons and hawks – a real treat for any bird lover or falconer.
Clark’s Nutcracker Prepares for Winter
If you live in North America you may well be familiar with the Clark’s Nutcracker (Nucifraga Columbiana). This adorable passerine bird is fairly large in size and is ash-grey in color with black and white wings and tail feathers. The bill, legs and feet of the Clark’s Nutcracker are also black – all in all a fairly ordinary looking bird. However, the Clark’s Nutcracker is anything but ordinary.
Amazing Songbird Communication Skills
Keen birders have long appreciated the intelligence and communication skills of birds. Apart from the fact that birdsong is delightful to listen to, it is also an integral part of bird identification for bird-watchers, as well as a means for birds to communicate with one another. Ongoing avian research is continuously revealing fascinating facts about birds, how they interact with one another and how they adapt to a rapidly changing world. Recent research has revealed that some migratory songbirds choose their nesting area based solely on the songs of other birds that are successfully raising their young.
Hen Harriers in Bowland Forests Get Satellite
While many would argue that hen harriers can be found throughout the the northern hemisphere of the globe, conservationists in England are worried that this attractive bird may soon be a thing of the past in their country. According to research there are just twelve hen harrier nests in Bowland Fell and only two elsewhere in the country. Thus, Bowland Fell is considered to be something of a sanctuary for the bird in England.
Unlocking the Mysteries of Feather Colors
Most first-time bird owners seeking their first pet will be primarily attracted to the striking colors that a number of bird species enjoy, even if they ultimately choose to go with the species that makes the easiest pet. Many birds are highly sought after due to their appealing colors the striking diversity of coloring is of the utmost benefit when it comes to identifying wild birds through a pair of binoculars. But what is it that makes these delightful creatures come in so many inspiring colors? How do they go from ‘drab to fab’ in just a difference of gender? Let us investigate the mystery.
New Subspecies Discovered in Columbia
The more than 100 kilometer long Serrania de los Yariguies Mountain Range in Columbia has remained unexplored until fairly recently when, under the auspices of Fundacion ProAves, researchers began a survey focusing mainly on the birdlife in the area. So far, these efforts have yielded two new bird species and a new species of butterfly. The first new bird discovery has been named the Yariguies Brush-Finch, while the latest discovery has been named in honor of conservationist Robert Giles – Scytalopus griseicollis gilesi.
Spectacular Species at Jurong BirdPark
Bird lovers looking for something new to try might consider visiting the beautiful and exciting country of Singapore. This colorful country is home to the Jurong BirdPark, a carefully landscaped park that spans an area of 202 000 square meters. The park is situated in the Jurong district on the western slope of Jurong Hill and is a delight to almost all bird enthusiasts who venture here.
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