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9th Annual Galveston FeatherFest

Editor — Wed, 22 Dec 2010 14:11:36 +0000

The Galveston FeatherFest is one of the biggest bird watching events in Texas, where some 200 bird species can be spotted. Excursions by boat, bus and kayak will take visitors to bays, beaches, wetlands, coastal praires, upland wood mottes and bay marshes. Besides field trips, a number of seminars will be held, including photography, birding basics, butterflies and moths, digiscoping and optics tips, identification and more.

Date: 7 to 10 April 2011
Venue: Burns High School
Location: Galveston Island
State: Texas
Country: United States of America

Rwanda Celebrates its Birdlife at Britain’s National Birdfair

africapractice — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 14:35:23 +0000

Visitors to this year’s British Birdfair in Rutland will discover the wonders of Rwanda’s birds, from the Great Blue Turaco to the most sought after Shoebill stork. The Rwanda Development Board/Tourism and Conservation will be showcasing the country named “Land of a Thousand Hills”, from the 21-23 August 2009.

A landlocked central African country, smaller than Belgium, Rwanda is a verdant country of fertile and hilly terrain, home to over 670 species of birds. Though famed for its big game and primates, Rwanda boasts fascinating wildlife that will appeal to all nature-loving tourists. In particular, its unique avian wildlife makes this an ideal destination for bird lovers. It is projected that by 2012, Rwanda will generate 11,000,000 USD from birding.

Described as the birdwatcher’s Glastonbury, Birdfair encompasses the whole spectrum of the birdwatching industry whilst at the same time supporting global bird conservation. With hundreds of stands selling the latest products for wildlife enthusiasts, as well as lectures, quizzes and book-launches, this is the event of the year for bird lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

The various hot spots for birdwatching in Rwanda include Nyungwe, Akagera and Volcanoes National Parks, Cyamudongo Forest, Buhanga Eco-park, Rugezi Swamp, Nyabarongo Wetlands, Akanyaru Wetlands and Lake Kivu Islands. Some of the highlights of Rwanda’s birdlife to be found in the country’s rolling hills, rugged mountains, swamps and lakes include:

The elusive Shoebill stork, which has made a home for itself in the wetlands of Akagera National Park in the eastern part of the country – one of the densest concentrations of waterbirds on the continent.
The outlandish Great Blue Turaco, a popular highlight of western part of the country.
The rare Ring-necked Francolin, that have also made their home in Akagera
The not-to-be-missed fish eagles, asserting their status as the avian monarchs of Africa’s waterways
African Bird Club describes Nyungwe National Park as the only place in Africa where the Red-collared Mountain Babbler can be seen in safety.
If the amazing avian wildlife were not enough, there are also 13 primate species including man’s closest living relative; the chimpanzee.

To raise awareness of the importance of birds, a Birding Association has been set-up, bringing together all bird lovers from both the Government and private sector, working closely with the Tourism Board.

Emmanuel Werabe from the Rwanda Development Board/ Tourism and Conservation commented, “We’re excited to be travelling to the UK to showcase our country’s unique birdlife. Whether you’re a seasoned bird-watcher, an intrepid mountaineer or a curious culture-seeker, there really is something for everyone in Rwanda. This weekend we’re looking forward to meeting birdwatchers that are keen to expand their horizons.”

The Rwanda Development Board/ Tourism and Conservation will be at Stand 20 in Marquee 3 from Friday 21st – Sunday 23rd August.

Gadwall (Anas strepera)

Editor — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 10:50:35 +0000

The Anas strepera or as it is commonly known, the Gadwall, is a common and widespread duck of the Anatidae family. It is basically a grey-coloured dabbling duck with a black rear end. When you look more closely at the grey colouring you will notice that it is made up of delicate speckling and barring. When it flies is shows a distinct white wing patch and is just a little smaller then a mallard.

In non-breeding times the beautifully patterned drake begins to look more like its female counterpart who is light brown in colouring. The Gadwall has a total wingspan of 78 to 90 cm and is 46 to 56 cm long. It can be found in the United Kingdom where it nests in small numbers. Interesting it is one of the species listed in the ‘Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds’ (AEWA).

These ducks live preferably in open wetlands, such as wet grasslands, gravel pits and in slow-flowing rivers where there are islands of vegetation. Their breeding habitats are similar and can be found in large reservoirs and estuaries. If you want to find any breeding gadwalls look in the shallow edges of gravel pits and lakes near any vegetation. You will find them mainly in the Midlands and southeast part of England, eastern Northern Ireland and southeast of Ireland, eastern central Scotland and southeast Wales.

They mainly eat leaves, seeds and the stems of the water plants found near their habitat. They feed by dabbling for plant food under the water by ducking under with their head submerged. The Gadwall on a whole is a quiet species; the female makes a rasping croak and has a ‘quack’ similar to a mallard, whereas the male has a hoarse whistling call.

The Gadwall will nest on the ground, quite away from the waters edge. Most dabbling ducks are very social and form large groups but the Gadwall is not as gregarious outside the breeding season and will only form small flocks. The juvenile birds are first fed insects and then later mollusks will also be added to their normal eating habits during the nesting season.

The Pleasure of Pet Duck Ownership

Osprey (Pandion haliaetus)

Editor — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 10:50:35 +0000

The Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) is a well-known bird of prey throughout the world and amongst the largest in North America. Osprey populations decreased due to pesticide poisoning during the 1950s to the 1970s. Although their numbers improved after the ban of DDT, they remain on threatened species and endangered species lists in some localities.

Ospreys are short-distant migrants who reside along waterways. As a large raptor, the Osprey is identified from beneath by their white breast and belly as well as their angled wings and the dark patch on the wrist bend. The back and upperwings are black. The wings are long and taper into a rounded tip. It has a short hooked beak ideal for capturing prey. A dark eyestripe marks the face. The tail is brown with white banding. They measure in at approximately 54 to 58 cm with a wingspan of 150 to 180 cm. The distinctive chirping whistle calls of the Osprey will also assist in identification.

Ospreys feed purely on fish, hovering over a body of water before plunging down to grab a tasty morsel. They have special barbed pads on their foot soles for gripping the fish, which they carry to the nest. Nests are frequently built on artificial structures such as nesting platforms, telephone poles, duck blinds and so forth. The nests are constructed with sticks and debris. Preferred breeding habitat for Ospreys is open water and wetlands. The pair will mate for life. A single clutch of 3 to 4 eggs is laid each year. Incubation is for 32 to 43 days. The chicks hatch individually over a period of 5 days. The oldest will gobble the majority of the food supplied by parents. This is not a major problem in times of abundance, but when little food is available the younger chicks will likely starve to death. In 48 to 59 days the young Osprey with fledge.

A very popular bird of prey, the Osprey features as Nova Scotia’s (Canada) official bird as well as the official bird of Sudermannia of Sweden. The name Osprey has been used for several sporting teams and the bird has been the official mascot of various universities and colleges. Ospreys are truly beautiful birds, exceptional fish hunters and fine parents, certainly worthy of conservation action and protection.

American Bittern (Botaurus lentiginosus)

Editor — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 10:50:35 +0000

The American Bittern (Botaurus lentiginosus) is a secretive bird. Although it is rarely seen, you are sure to know that one is about when you hear its eerie, booming call echoing through the reeds. Populations of American Bitterns can be found in areas extending from Central British Columbia, toward Newfoundland, down to the Gulf Coast and Across to southern California. This stocky wetland bird species migrates only a short distance from home. Sadly, American Bittern populations are suffering due to the damage being done to their wetland habitats. Mankind’s lack of concern is once again leading to the decline of a vital bird species.

American Bitterns are noted as being large, stocky birds measuring a length of about 23 inches and a wingspan of 45 inches. This wading bird species can be identified by its bright yellow eyes and yellow bill with a dark culmen. The upperparts are a rich dark brown whilst the throat is white with black/brown streaks. When in flight, its outer flight feathers are distinctly dark compared to the light brown inner area of the wing. Adults have a black stripe running down the side of the throat. The two genders look alike whilst juveniles lack the noticeable streaking. If you do not spot the American Bittern itself, you will be able to identify the bird by its call, a deep “oong-ka-choonk”.

American Bitterns dine on a number of wetland creatures including insects, frogs, salamanders, little fish, small snakes, crayfish and sometimes voles. These quiet birds rely on stealth when foraging for a meal. They will remain motionless, undetected by potential prey. As the snack nears, the bittern will speedily dart forward, nabbing the creature in its bill. Prey is killed by shaking and biting, after which it is swallowed whole.

Breeding takes place in the north between mid-April and early May. Males are typically polygamous, but they differ from other herons in that they are not colonial nesters. The courtship display of the American Bittern is truly fascinating. Arching his back and dipping forward he serenades the female. Together they participate in a complex aerial display. The nest is built by the female who constructs it out of sedges, reeds and other wetland plants. Incubation lasts 24-29 days. Although the young offspring leave the nest at around 2 weeks, the female still cares for them.

A very elusive bird, the American Bittern goes to great lengths to remain hidden. When approached, the bittern will stretch it neck, staring up at the sky, standing absolutely still or swaying slowly to imitate the reeds. If danger continues to threaten it will fly away with a low barking call.

The American Bittern has been declared state endangered in Connecticut and falls under the Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918. The chief reason for the lessening numbers of American bitterns is habitat loss. Marshes and swamps forming the habitat of the species have been built over and used for commercial gain. You and I can help by supporting wetland conservation legislation as well as efforts to control water polution. Why not make an effort to save the American Bittern.

Britain’s Bitterns Respond Positively to Conservation Efforts

The Plight of the Endangered Snail Kite

Editor — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 10:09:20 +0000

The Florida Everglades offer a variety of habitats that are home to an amazing array of birds and wildlife. But, as is increasingly the case all over the world, man is encroaching on the delicate balance of these tropical wetlands with disastrous results. The latest casualty in the Florida Everglades is the Snail Kite which, according to the most recent count, is now considered to be critically endangered in this region.

A number of possible reasons has been cited for this dire situation, but the main factors appear to be extended periods of drought, together with an Everglades water management scheme that has been a subject of controversy for some time now. This has resulted in a loss of suitable breeding sites due to the dwindling of suitable food sources for these regal birds. The Snail Kite’s diet consists mainly of aquatic snails from the family Ampullariidae – commonly known as apple snails – which are deftly extracted from their hard, golf-ball sized shells by means of the bird’s specially adapted beak.

A small number of adult Snail Kites have been spotted in their historic nesting grounds of the Everglades and Lake Okeechobee. However, the majority of the surviving birds have relocated to a chain of Central Florida lakes about 100 miles north, where they have been seen nesting at Lake Tohopekaliga in Florida’s Osceola County. The decline in the Snail Kite’s numbers is seen by many as a reflection of the ineffectiveness of federal wildlife protection and conservation measures in the Everglades.

The Miccosukee tribe has long argued against the US Fish and Wildlife Service’s implementation of a plan to protect the endangered Cape Sable Seaside Sparrow which is restricted to the Everglades. The plan, which involves closing floodgates along the Tamiami Trail in an effort to prevent flooding of the sparrows’ nesting area, causes water to back up and flood tree islands in tribal lands north of the trail, killing off the tiny eggs laid by apple snails on the stems of marsh plants, thereby breaking a link in the vital food chain of the Everglades which Snail Kites rely on. Joette Lorion, spokesperson for the Miccosukee tribe, draws attention to the fact that they Sable Seaside Sparrow is being saved at the expense of the Snail Kite.

Field supervisor at the Wildlife Service’s Vero Beach office, Paul Souza, acknowledges that the current situation is not ideal, but is confident that upcoming plans to improve water flow through Tamiami Trail in an Everglades restoration project will improve conditions for both the Cape Sable Seaside Sparrow and the Snail Kite.

Spectacular Species at Jurong BirdPark

Editor — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 13:14:14 +0000

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.

This beautiful bird park was the brainchild of Dr Goh Keng Swee. He arrived at the idea of a place where people could relax with nature in Jurong, which was then just an industrial zone, in 1968 after visiting a zoological garden in Rio de Janeiro and viewing their free-flight aviary. Later that same year the western slope of Jurong Hill was selected as the site for the park and work began on the bird park. While this massive structure was busy being developed, park officials urged dignitaries and ambassadors to contribute birds for the park. By the time the park was opened on 3 January 1971, birds had arrived from 40 private donors and 7 zoos from 12 different countries. Jurong was built at a cost of S$3.5 million and is now the second largest bird park in the world in terms of land area. It has more birds than any other bird park on the planet and there are currently more than 9 000 individual birds living in the park. The birds that can be found in the park come from all over the world and there are approximately 600 different species of bird living in this protected environment. This includes 29 endangered bird species and 101 flamingos. To be sure, the selection of animals is absolutely magnificent and bird lovers will find themselves absolutely overwhelmed by the variety and abundance of birds in this beautiful park.

The park was updated to the cost of S$10 million in 2006, giving visitors access to newer facilities and ensuring that the birds enjoyed the most comfortable environs possible. The upgrade has also resulted in the park gaining a new entrance plaza, a gift shop, a restaurant and ice-cream parlor, a bird hospital and an African wetlands exhibit. The extensive renovations combined with the parks massive size and open-park concept makes it the best bird park in the world. While birds from across the globe can be found in the park, Jurong BirdPark mainly specializes in birds from Southeast Asia. Visitors will find that there are four main aviaries – including the largest walk-in aviary in the world complete with the tallest man-made waterfall. Bird shows are held regularly for the public at the Pool Amphitheatre and Fuji Hawk Walk and all the exhibits and aviaries are designed to closely mimic the natural habitats of the birds they house. All this is beautifully complimented by large, open, landscaped areas that are filled with colorful flowering plants. Little wonder then, that the bird park has been the recipient of several awards including the Aseanta Excellence Award in both 2004 and 2007. Clearly bird lovers will not be disappointed when visiting this exceptional bird park in Singapore!

Fun at the Orlando Wetlands Park Festival

Editor — Mon, 24 Dec 2007 10:53:11 +0000

The 8th annual Orlando Wetlands Festival, which is scheduled to take place on 23 February 2008 at the Orlando Wetlands Park, is organized by the City of Orlando and the Orange Audubon Society as a joint venture. This popular event is a celebration of flora and fauna, with the emphasis on the prolific birdlife that is present in the wetlands, including migratory birds using the area as a stop-over point.

The Orlando Wetlands Park is a world renowned example of successful Wetlands Engineering. The 1,650 acres of land is a series of man-made lakes and ponds which have been planted with numerous species of aquatic plants. These form treatment marshes that serve the purpose of removing excess nutrients from reclaimed wastewater before it is released into the nearby St. Johns River. Tests have revealed that the water discharged into the St. Johns River is cleaner than the water within the river, showing how effective this system is in benefiting the environment.

The Orlando Wetlands Festival is a family-oriented event with many activities taking place throughout the day. The Orange Audubon Society is arranging guided bird watching excursions as well as guided nature photo shoots under the leadership of experts in the field. Hikers will have ample opportunity to view and take photos of the many bird species in the park. Birds that bird watchers are likely to encounter include the Snail Kite, Roseate Spoonbill and Anhinga. The Anhinga, which is sometimes called Snakebird, is a fish-eating cormorant-like bird with dark plumage and a long neck. It very often swims with only its neck above the water, looking very much like a snake which is ready to strike, hence the name of Snakebird.

The Florida Native Plant Society will be leading hikes, during which indigenous plants will be identified and discussed. Energetic visitors can plan to join the Florida Trail Association for guided wilderness hikes and for the not so energetic, guided bus tours will give visitors the opportunity to experience Florida’s wild wetlands in comfort.

In addition to the many guided tours, visitors can look forward to demonstrations of bird banding and mist-netting – the use of soft, fine nets to safely capture birds for banding and research purposes. When used correctly, this method of bird catching seldom causes injury and is an invaluable tool for bird conservationists.

Police canine demonstrations form part of the day’s program. These intelligent, highly trained dogs put on an amazing show that is always a crowd-pleaser. Adding to the festival atmosphere, live folk music will entertain visitors throughout the day.

Various wildlife shows will feature live animals such as Florida panthers, alligators, birds, snakes and much more. Each family will receive a free backyard tree from the City of Orlando’s Families, Parks and Recreation Division. Families are encouraged to plant this tree, thereby making a positive contribution to the environment.

Other activities to be featured at the Orlando Wetlands Park Festival include tree climbing, hayrides, rock climbing and games. Visitors are encouraged to wear sturdy, comfortable shoes and to bring their cameras and off-road bicycles. However, pets must remain at home. Without a doubt, the 8th annual Orlando Wetlands Park Festival promises to be a fun-filled day for the entire family.