Monday, December 13, 2010
Terrible Hairy Fly
Looking for an interesting nature story? Search for "Terrible Hairy Fly." It's found in only one place on earth.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Bluebirds: Making a Comeback
The
bluebird has always been one of the most popular birds in North
America. It is loved for its beautiful coloring, pleasing voice, and
gentle disposition. The bluebird is the symbol of love and happiness in
many songs.
The bluebird was once numerous even in urban residential areas. It has sadly seen quite a decline in numbers, with the eastern bluebird population declining to 90% since the early 1900s. A number of factors, including insecticides, habitat destruction, predators and competition from non-native species have contributed to this decline.
Bluebirds are primarily insectivores and eat many insects that we consider to be pests: cutworms, grasshoppers and flying insects. They supplement this diet in fall and winter with wild berries and are in danger of starving if snow covers the ground and berries are unavailable. Many people hope bluebirds will be attracted to a winter feeder filled with peanut butter mix, chopped dry fruit and peanut kernels.
Bluebirds prefer to inhabit fields and open woodlands. Their hunting strategy is to wait on a low perch and then attack, meaning an area with suitable perches is preferred. Bluebirds are strict cavity nesters. With a shortage of natural nesting cavities (standing dead trees or rotting fence posts), man made nesting boxes are necessary. Those trying to save the bluebird have begun a massive effort by erecting thousands of nesting boxes that are specifically designed for bluebirds and are predator and competitor proof.
Species
There are three species of bluebird: eastern, western and mountain. They are all members of the thrush family. The eastern bluebird is bright blue with a rusty red breast and breeds in every state east of the Rocky Mountains. The western bluebird has a blue throat with red color extending to its upper back and breeds in western states from Canada to Mexico and east to Colorado. The mountain bluebird is entirely blue with a white underbelly and breeds in the Northwest east to the Dakotas and north into Alaska.
Courtship
The spring courtship rites of the bluebird are among the most enjoyable to witness. The male selects a nesting cavity and devotes all of his energy to luring a female to it with his song. He sings and sings, as the female sits passively by, enjoying his effort. When she inspects the nesting place, he interprets her interest as acceptance and his song becomes even more passionate. The final selection of the nesting place however, is hers. If she finds his choice unacceptable, he must search for something better.
Nest Building
The female builds a nest of dry grass or pine needles and other plant material. The nest is typically about three or four inches deep. Here the eastern bluebird lays an average of three to five clear blue eggs (though occasionally they may be white). The western and mountain species are apt to lay one or two more than the eastern. The eggs hatch in two weeks and the young are ready to leave the nest in 15 to 20 days, ready to fly and soon able to feed themselves.
If given a clean nest box after each brood has fledged, by fall a pair may well have raised two or three broods. They will then migrate south when the food supply runs out or it gets too cold.
Competition
The bluebird's chief competitors are the English house sparrow (introduced to the US in 1851) and the European starling (introduced to the US in 1890). House sparrows nest early and often take the best bluebird nesting sites first. Sparrows will break the bluebird's eggs in a nest or even peck baby or adult bluebirds to death. Sparrows may take over a bluebird nest in winter when the bluebirds have migrated south. Starlings nest later in the season, but are quite aggressive and, being larger than bluebirds, can easily take over any bluebird nest cavity they wish to. Starlings may drive bluebirds out of an entire area and occupy every available nesting cavity, unless people intervene.
Nests of sparrows, starlings and other competing species must be cleaned out of your bluebird house on a regular basis.
Tree swallows often find bluebird houses to their liking as well. This problem can be lessened by hanging two houses close to each other or even back to back on a post. Two bluebirds will not nest close to each other, so this gives the swallows one house and the bluebirds the other. Swallows will even help protect the bluebirds from other competing birds.
How to Help
What can we do to assist the survival of this lovely bird? We can provide suitable habitat, food, water, nesting cavities and winter shelter. Plants that carry berries through the winter (holly, privet, honeysuckle, bayberry, sumac, bittersweet, hackberry, dogwood and others) will provide food for bluebirds and many other species. Winter roosting boxes provide important shelter for many birds in winter. Bluebirds may stay all year in areas where they can find sufficient food and a roosting box will help them maintain warmth on the coldest nights. Specifically designed nesting boxes, with features that favor the bluebird and discourage both predators and competitors, are required in order to give the bluebird a safe place to rear its young.
Bluebird Trail
What is a "Bluebird Trail?" A bluebird trail can be created by hanging many bluebird houses in an area, about 100 yards apart, to give the bluebirds an abundance of housing. They are often placed on fence posts, giving the appearance of a "trail."
For best success with your bluebird nesting box, place it in an open area with scattered trees, particularly with low branches for bluebirds to perch on and watch for insects. Pastures, parks, large lawns and golf courses are good locations for bluebirds. Heavy ground cover will interfere with their ability to find insects. Place nesting boxes where insecticides are not used.
The best height for a bluebird nest box is three to five feet above the ground. Lower makes predation easier. Higher tends to attract more sparrows. The nest box should face a tree or shrub within about 50 feet, so that young may find a perch safe from predators when they leave the nest. It should also face away from prevailing winds to prevent rain from driving through the entrance hole. An east facing is generally best.
Fence posts make convenient locations, as do utility poles and even mail boxes (facing away from the road). A predator guard on the post will help discourage predators.
Coveside Bluebird Houses
The construction of your Coveside bluebird house is based on years of research into the habits and preferences of bluebirds as well as the hazards that threaten their existence. Coveside makes ten different models of bluebird house: Eastern Bluebird House, Western/Mountain Bluebird House, Sparrow-resistant Bluebird House, Observation Bluebird House, Horizontal Bluebird House, Slant-front Bluebird House, Open-top Bluebird House, Open 2-side Bluebird House, Economy Trail Box and Eastern Bluebird House Kit.
Coveside's nesting boxes are constructed of one-inch thick sustainably grown eastern white pine in order to provide adequate insulation from heat. Most young birds that die in the nest do so because of heat and inadequate insulation from it. Our lumber is custom milled with a "rougher head" finish, which allows fledglings a foothold when they are ready to climb out of the nest.
Ventilation is provided for at the top of each side panel. The slanted roof overhangs the entrance hole to provide appropriate drainage. The floor has drainage at all four corners and is recessed to keep it dry.
Coveside's nesting boxes are not painted or stained. Over time they will weather, darken, turn gray and eventually blend right in with their environment. Birds prefer an inconspicuous nest box. The most important thing you can do to preserve the long life of this nesting box is to clean it out after each nesting cycle. The side panel tilts out from the bottom for easy cleaning after the young have left the nest. A latch at the bottom secures the panel in place.
If you paint or stain, it is critical to use water-based stain or paint only. Oil-based paints and stains are toxic to birds. A light seasonal external coating of boiled linseed oil is a highly effective non-toxic preservative.
Mounting instructions
Put a screw or nail into a tree or post at a height of three to five feet, leaving about 1/4" sticking out. Place the metal hanger at the top/rear of the nest box over the screw or nail. (A few of our models do not include hanger brackets and are mounted directly through the rear wall of the nest box.) Place a second nail or screw at the bottom of the back panel of the nest box to hold it securely.
Copyright Coveside Conservation Products 2009
The bluebird was once numerous even in urban residential areas. It has sadly seen quite a decline in numbers, with the eastern bluebird population declining to 90% since the early 1900s. A number of factors, including insecticides, habitat destruction, predators and competition from non-native species have contributed to this decline.
Bluebirds are primarily insectivores and eat many insects that we consider to be pests: cutworms, grasshoppers and flying insects. They supplement this diet in fall and winter with wild berries and are in danger of starving if snow covers the ground and berries are unavailable. Many people hope bluebirds will be attracted to a winter feeder filled with peanut butter mix, chopped dry fruit and peanut kernels.
Bluebirds prefer to inhabit fields and open woodlands. Their hunting strategy is to wait on a low perch and then attack, meaning an area with suitable perches is preferred. Bluebirds are strict cavity nesters. With a shortage of natural nesting cavities (standing dead trees or rotting fence posts), man made nesting boxes are necessary. Those trying to save the bluebird have begun a massive effort by erecting thousands of nesting boxes that are specifically designed for bluebirds and are predator and competitor proof.
Species
There are three species of bluebird: eastern, western and mountain. They are all members of the thrush family. The eastern bluebird is bright blue with a rusty red breast and breeds in every state east of the Rocky Mountains. The western bluebird has a blue throat with red color extending to its upper back and breeds in western states from Canada to Mexico and east to Colorado. The mountain bluebird is entirely blue with a white underbelly and breeds in the Northwest east to the Dakotas and north into Alaska.
Courtship
The spring courtship rites of the bluebird are among the most enjoyable to witness. The male selects a nesting cavity and devotes all of his energy to luring a female to it with his song. He sings and sings, as the female sits passively by, enjoying his effort. When she inspects the nesting place, he interprets her interest as acceptance and his song becomes even more passionate. The final selection of the nesting place however, is hers. If she finds his choice unacceptable, he must search for something better.
Nest Building
The female builds a nest of dry grass or pine needles and other plant material. The nest is typically about three or four inches deep. Here the eastern bluebird lays an average of three to five clear blue eggs (though occasionally they may be white). The western and mountain species are apt to lay one or two more than the eastern. The eggs hatch in two weeks and the young are ready to leave the nest in 15 to 20 days, ready to fly and soon able to feed themselves.
If given a clean nest box after each brood has fledged, by fall a pair may well have raised two or three broods. They will then migrate south when the food supply runs out or it gets too cold.
Competition
The bluebird's chief competitors are the English house sparrow (introduced to the US in 1851) and the European starling (introduced to the US in 1890). House sparrows nest early and often take the best bluebird nesting sites first. Sparrows will break the bluebird's eggs in a nest or even peck baby or adult bluebirds to death. Sparrows may take over a bluebird nest in winter when the bluebirds have migrated south. Starlings nest later in the season, but are quite aggressive and, being larger than bluebirds, can easily take over any bluebird nest cavity they wish to. Starlings may drive bluebirds out of an entire area and occupy every available nesting cavity, unless people intervene.
Nests of sparrows, starlings and other competing species must be cleaned out of your bluebird house on a regular basis.
Tree swallows often find bluebird houses to their liking as well. This problem can be lessened by hanging two houses close to each other or even back to back on a post. Two bluebirds will not nest close to each other, so this gives the swallows one house and the bluebirds the other. Swallows will even help protect the bluebirds from other competing birds.
How to Help
What can we do to assist the survival of this lovely bird? We can provide suitable habitat, food, water, nesting cavities and winter shelter. Plants that carry berries through the winter (holly, privet, honeysuckle, bayberry, sumac, bittersweet, hackberry, dogwood and others) will provide food for bluebirds and many other species. Winter roosting boxes provide important shelter for many birds in winter. Bluebirds may stay all year in areas where they can find sufficient food and a roosting box will help them maintain warmth on the coldest nights. Specifically designed nesting boxes, with features that favor the bluebird and discourage both predators and competitors, are required in order to give the bluebird a safe place to rear its young.
Bluebird Trail
What is a "Bluebird Trail?" A bluebird trail can be created by hanging many bluebird houses in an area, about 100 yards apart, to give the bluebirds an abundance of housing. They are often placed on fence posts, giving the appearance of a "trail."
For best success with your bluebird nesting box, place it in an open area with scattered trees, particularly with low branches for bluebirds to perch on and watch for insects. Pastures, parks, large lawns and golf courses are good locations for bluebirds. Heavy ground cover will interfere with their ability to find insects. Place nesting boxes where insecticides are not used.
The best height for a bluebird nest box is three to five feet above the ground. Lower makes predation easier. Higher tends to attract more sparrows. The nest box should face a tree or shrub within about 50 feet, so that young may find a perch safe from predators when they leave the nest. It should also face away from prevailing winds to prevent rain from driving through the entrance hole. An east facing is generally best.
Fence posts make convenient locations, as do utility poles and even mail boxes (facing away from the road). A predator guard on the post will help discourage predators.
Coveside Bluebird Houses
The construction of your Coveside bluebird house is based on years of research into the habits and preferences of bluebirds as well as the hazards that threaten their existence. Coveside makes ten different models of bluebird house: Eastern Bluebird House, Western/Mountain Bluebird House, Sparrow-resistant Bluebird House, Observation Bluebird House, Horizontal Bluebird House, Slant-front Bluebird House, Open-top Bluebird House, Open 2-side Bluebird House, Economy Trail Box and Eastern Bluebird House Kit.
Coveside's nesting boxes are constructed of one-inch thick sustainably grown eastern white pine in order to provide adequate insulation from heat. Most young birds that die in the nest do so because of heat and inadequate insulation from it. Our lumber is custom milled with a "rougher head" finish, which allows fledglings a foothold when they are ready to climb out of the nest.
Ventilation is provided for at the top of each side panel. The slanted roof overhangs the entrance hole to provide appropriate drainage. The floor has drainage at all four corners and is recessed to keep it dry.
Coveside's nesting boxes are not painted or stained. Over time they will weather, darken, turn gray and eventually blend right in with their environment. Birds prefer an inconspicuous nest box. The most important thing you can do to preserve the long life of this nesting box is to clean it out after each nesting cycle. The side panel tilts out from the bottom for easy cleaning after the young have left the nest. A latch at the bottom secures the panel in place.
If you paint or stain, it is critical to use water-based stain or paint only. Oil-based paints and stains are toxic to birds. A light seasonal external coating of boiled linseed oil is a highly effective non-toxic preservative.
Mounting instructions
Put a screw or nail into a tree or post at a height of three to five feet, leaving about 1/4" sticking out. Place the metal hanger at the top/rear of the nest box over the screw or nail. (A few of our models do not include hanger brackets and are mounted directly through the rear wall of the nest box.) Place a second nail or screw at the bottom of the back panel of the nest box to hold it securely.
Copyright Coveside Conservation Products 2009
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Major League Baseball and Bird Names
Blue Jays, Cardinals, Orioles...that's all fine and dandy but the biggest and the best team and name today is the San Francisco Giants!!!!!!!!!!!
Monday, November 1, 2010
Friday, October 29, 2010
Be Nice to Bats on Halloween
A highly valuable but misconstrued mammal, bats are essential for a healthy environment. Most species of North American bats are insectivores, eating from 3,000 – 7,000 insects nightly.
BirdLodges.com sells bat houses!
BirdLodges.com sells bat houses!
Monday, October 18, 2010
How to convert a roosting box to a birdhouse, and back!
Converting to a Birdhouse – The Convertible Winter Roosting Box - Coveside 10097
The winter roost converts to a birdhouse by inverting the front panel. First, open the front from the bottom and slide the perches out through the sides of the box. Then remove a screw on each side of the house. The front can then be inverted with the bottom aligned with the base of the house. The screws can be reinserted into the original holes on the sides. After conversion there should be a slot at the top of the front to allow for ventilation during the nesting season.
The winter roost converts to a birdhouse by inverting the front panel. First, open the front from the bottom and slide the perches out through the sides of the box. Then remove a screw on each side of the house. The front can then be inverted with the bottom aligned with the base of the house. The screws can be reinserted into the original holes on the sides. After conversion there should be a slot at the top of the front to allow for ventilation during the nesting season.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Linus and Lucy the parakeets
Linus and Lucy the parakeets went nuts over chirping birds in the background of one of the HGTV real estate shows.
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Tarantula Mating Season
Love is in the air in the world of tarantulas. You may notice more tarantulas on the trails and roads, especially at elevations of 1000-2500 feet during the late afternoon and early evening. The months of September and October are prime time for the tarantula mating season. Don't be afraid - they really are very docile creatures! But they are on a mission so it's best to just let them be.
Monday, October 4, 2010
Monday, September 27, 2010
Butterflies need Milkweed
Butterflies need Milkweed
Narrow-leaf milkweed is a beautiful spreading perennial that reaches a height of 3 feet. It has buds that look like little pink pearls that open to pale pinkish-white flowers. The flowers are umbel-shaped, meaning they are a flat-topped or rounded flower cluster in which the individual flower stalks arise from the same point. Umbel-shaped flowers are perfect landing pads for pollinators.
The “milk” of the milkweed has alkaloids and latex as well as other chemicals that can be toxic. Monarch butterflies, however, can safely eat this chemical, which then protects them from being eaten by birds. The chemical they ingest makes them taste horrible.
Milkweed can be considered weedy because it likes to travel within the garden, but it is quite easy to pull out any plants that have invaded.
Milkweed grows in dry, open fields below 7000 feet from Southeast Washington through Oregon and California, all the way down to Baja California. It is an easy plant to grow; it likes clay soil, can tolerate little water and it dies back each winter.
If more homeowners grew milkweed in suburban and urban gardens, maybe a new pathway could be created for migrating Monarch butterflies.
Patrice Hanlon
ANG Newspapers
http://www.birdlodges.com/butterfly-vivarium.html
http://www.birdlodges.com/butterfly-blue.html
http://www.birdlodges.com/butterfly-orange.html
Narrow-leaf milkweed is a beautiful spreading perennial that reaches a height of 3 feet. It has buds that look like little pink pearls that open to pale pinkish-white flowers. The flowers are umbel-shaped, meaning they are a flat-topped or rounded flower cluster in which the individual flower stalks arise from the same point. Umbel-shaped flowers are perfect landing pads for pollinators.
The “milk” of the milkweed has alkaloids and latex as well as other chemicals that can be toxic. Monarch butterflies, however, can safely eat this chemical, which then protects them from being eaten by birds. The chemical they ingest makes them taste horrible.
Milkweed can be considered weedy because it likes to travel within the garden, but it is quite easy to pull out any plants that have invaded.
Milkweed grows in dry, open fields below 7000 feet from Southeast Washington through Oregon and California, all the way down to Baja California. It is an easy plant to grow; it likes clay soil, can tolerate little water and it dies back each winter.
If more homeowners grew milkweed in suburban and urban gardens, maybe a new pathway could be created for migrating Monarch butterflies.
Patrice Hanlon
ANG Newspapers
http://www.birdlodges.com/butterfly-vivarium.html
http://www.birdlodges.com/butterfly-blue.html
http://www.birdlodges.com/butterfly-orange.html
Monday, September 20, 2010
Bat Disease Treatment
From ANG newspapers, September 20, 2010:
Bat disease hope
New treatments are being proposed to help combat a fatal bat disease that has decimated the flying mammals’ population in the eastern United States. The so-called white-nose syndrome is a fungal infection that emerged in 2006. Scientists don’t know exactly how it has wiped out 97 percent of the bat population in some areas, but researchers think they can fight it. Addressing a meeting of the American Society for Microbiology, Jeremy Coleman, head of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s response to the problem, says that the use of antifungal drugs might be successful in treating infected bats, and antiseptics could be used to decontaminate bat caves. But Coleman warns that further study is necessary to make sure the treatments don’t harm other wildlife or cause their own set of problems.
Would you like to shop for bat houses? Just click here for the complete selection of BirdLodges.com Bat Houses.
Bat disease hope
New treatments are being proposed to help combat a fatal bat disease that has decimated the flying mammals’ population in the eastern United States. The so-called white-nose syndrome is a fungal infection that emerged in 2006. Scientists don’t know exactly how it has wiped out 97 percent of the bat population in some areas, but researchers think they can fight it. Addressing a meeting of the American Society for Microbiology, Jeremy Coleman, head of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s response to the problem, says that the use of antifungal drugs might be successful in treating infected bats, and antiseptics could be used to decontaminate bat caves. But Coleman warns that further study is necessary to make sure the treatments don’t harm other wildlife or cause their own set of problems.
Would you like to shop for bat houses? Just click here for the complete selection of BirdLodges.com Bat Houses.
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology
Many of the bird feeders on www.BirdLodges.com were developed with the help of experts from the Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology and are constructed of durable, weather-resistant materials. The seed feeders hold a large quantity of seed and allow you to enjoy a wide variety of songbirds. The hummingbird feeders are colorful and just what the hummers are looking for.
September shipping special! Free shipping for any total sales of $100 or more!
September shipping special! Free shipping for any total sales of $100 or more!
Monday, August 30, 2010
What Birds Eat
Backyard birds come in all shapes and sizes. They eat nuts, seeds, berries, fruit, and insects. They welcome wintertime sprinklings of seeds in the snow. You may think that birds are light eaters, but it is quite the opposite. They are actually big eaters. Birds need plenty of food to produce the energy their bodies require to maintain a fast metabolism. This fast metabolic rate allows them to fly. They spend much of their time looking for, and eating, food. Seeds can be purchased at your local supermarket. The ready-made mixes usually contain a lot of wheat, buckwheat, milo and other filler seeds and grains. Sunflower seeds are very easy to find. They come in two varieties: striped and smaller black oil seeds. Even though some of the smaller birds have trouble cracking the sunflower seed's shell, most birds love it! Plus it provides the birds with more fat and therefore more energy. If you make you own mix, check your feeder for leftovers and adjust the proportions to the birds' preferences.
According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, there are 54 million people across North America participating in bird-feeding and wildlife watching in their own backyards, Backyard bird feeding is a convenient way to enjoy wildlife and feel good.
Resource: PetZone Pet Products
According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, there are 54 million people across North America participating in bird-feeding and wildlife watching in their own backyards, Backyard bird feeding is a convenient way to enjoy wildlife and feel good.
Resource: PetZone Pet Products
Monday, August 16, 2010
All About Finch Thistle Feed
Thistles are a finch's favorite plant. They feed their young on the immature fruit and the "floss" they produce. This floss comes from the flowers that have gone to seed and left their fluffy seed heads behind. Finches often select thistles' floss for structural and lining materials for their nests. Many times the thistles will mature before the finches nest, thus providing them with fresh new floss. Some thistle heads never open completely, which traps last year's floss, making the product readily available for an energetic finch. An imported thistle "niger" seed, from Africa and Asia, is high in protein and fat. It has an added bonus value of not attracting squirrels or blackbirds.
BirdLodges.com Pop-Up Finch Thistle Feeder
BirdLodges.com Pop-Up Finch Thistle Feeder
Friday, August 13, 2010
Backyard Bird Feeding
"According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, there are 54 million people across North America participating in bird-feeding and wildlife watching in their own backyards. Backyard bird feeding is a convenient way to enjoy wildlife and feel good."
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Hearing the Outdoor Birds
The parakeets are sure enjoying the new screen door. There's a whole world of different birds on that side of the building.
Monday, August 9, 2010
Parakeets in the Yard
Some days the parakeets are stiff as a statue when I put them in the backyard (in their cage, of course). Today they were very aware of the wild birds around them. While the wild birds were not very close, they were close enough for the parakeets to look around at them, and chirp a couple of times.
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Robin
Sitting in a park downtown on a summer day and who comes along? A robin, hopping along looking for worms. This is in a park next to a busy street! Great to see...
Monday, August 2, 2010
In Search of Owls
In Search of Owls
On Sunday evening, August 1, 2010, the Livermore Area Parks and Recreation Department sponsored an “In Search of Owls” event in Veterans Park. Ranger Patti Cole began the presentation with a detailed explanation of the unique features of owls.
The belief that owls can turn their heads 360 degrees is almost true. Having twice the number of cervical vertebrae as humans allows them to turn 270 degrees.
Owls have eyes that are proportionally larger than other birds when compared to body size. Being nocturnal, this assists with night vision.
Hearing is enhanced by having offset ears on either side of the head. An owl can tilt its head just slightly to hear within a larger range. The shape of the owl’s face also assists in hearing; the rounded shape funnels sounds to the ears.
The talons on an owl lock in place after grasping prey, allowing for a more secure hold on the next meal while flying to a safe place.
One of the most fascinating features of owls is their ability to fly silently. The top feather of an owl’s wings is covered with a very fine row of feathers which muffles any swishing sound made while flying.
After the presentation we ventured out to attract owls using modern technology – an amplified ipod with recorded screech owl and barn owls calls. We watched and waited for over an hour until we spotted a barn owl off in the distance, possibly close enough to have heard our recorded call. This barn owl was to represent all of the local owl population as it was the only one seen.
On Sunday evening, August 1, 2010, the Livermore Area Parks and Recreation Department sponsored an “In Search of Owls” event in Veterans Park. Ranger Patti Cole began the presentation with a detailed explanation of the unique features of owls.
The belief that owls can turn their heads 360 degrees is almost true. Having twice the number of cervical vertebrae as humans allows them to turn 270 degrees.
Owls have eyes that are proportionally larger than other birds when compared to body size. Being nocturnal, this assists with night vision.
Hearing is enhanced by having offset ears on either side of the head. An owl can tilt its head just slightly to hear within a larger range. The shape of the owl’s face also assists in hearing; the rounded shape funnels sounds to the ears.
The talons on an owl lock in place after grasping prey, allowing for a more secure hold on the next meal while flying to a safe place.
One of the most fascinating features of owls is their ability to fly silently. The top feather of an owl’s wings is covered with a very fine row of feathers which muffles any swishing sound made while flying.
After the presentation we ventured out to attract owls using modern technology – an amplified ipod with recorded screech owl and barn owls calls. We watched and waited for over an hour until we spotted a barn owl off in the distance, possibly close enough to have heard our recorded call. This barn owl was to represent all of the local owl population as it was the only one seen.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
"How to Attract Birds and Butterflies"
Today I attended the "How to Attract Birds and Butterflies" presentation at the local nursery. Come to find out it was for their "Kid's Club"! I had no kids with me and it's been a long time since I passed for a kid, so I just sat down and enjoyed the nursery scenery and bought some local honey.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Gray Jay Bird in Rocky Mountain National Park
We were visited by a very friendly white and gray bird in the Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado. Referencing the bird book it appears to be a gray jay. I think it wanted some human food and of course we did not oblige!
Friday, July 16, 2010
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Parakeet birds at the County Fair
Today I was watching the parakeet birds at the small animals exhibit at the Alameda County Fair. I was enjoying watching one bird obsess over the colored rings with a bell at the end. Last time I visited this display two birds were fighting over a ladder. Only one bird was playing with the ladder today. There must have been over 100 birds in the cage. A little girl wearing a straw hat and sunglasses walked up to the cage wall and all of the birds immediately stopped moving and went silent. It was as if they were playing freeze tag. They stayed this way for a couple of minutes and did not resume their activity until she walked away. Fascinating!
Friday, July 2, 2010
Bird and Butterfly Festival at Coyote Hills Regional Park
Bird and Butterfly Festival at Coyote Hills Regional Park
On Sunday, June 13, the Coyote Hills Regional Park hosted their annual "Bird and Butterfly Festival." A regional park located near the San Francisco Bay, the park is punctuated by a prominent hill along with marshlands and rolling grassland hills. The warm and sunny spring day added to the enjoyment of the park and exhibits.
A slide show of local wildlife, a butterfly collection including live caterpillars, worm composting demonstrations, and mellow musical entertainment were some of the featured events. The Nectar Garden showed examples of plants and flowers to grow to attract birds and butterflies. This garden is open whenever the park is open and is a great resource for researching future plantings.
One of the vendors present explained the difficulties monarch butterflies are having in our area with a lack of milkweed plants at their disposal. Douglas-Michel Butterfly Plants offered plants for sale and explained how to best care for milkweed in well-draining soil.
Coyote Hills Regional Park, located on the outskirts of Fremont/Newark, CA, is a beautiful location and worth a visit. Bring your binoculars as there are an abundance of birds, butterflies, and wildlife nearby.
On Sunday, June 13, the Coyote Hills Regional Park hosted their annual "Bird and Butterfly Festival." A regional park located near the San Francisco Bay, the park is punctuated by a prominent hill along with marshlands and rolling grassland hills. The warm and sunny spring day added to the enjoyment of the park and exhibits.
A slide show of local wildlife, a butterfly collection including live caterpillars, worm composting demonstrations, and mellow musical entertainment were some of the featured events. The Nectar Garden showed examples of plants and flowers to grow to attract birds and butterflies. This garden is open whenever the park is open and is a great resource for researching future plantings.
One of the vendors present explained the difficulties monarch butterflies are having in our area with a lack of milkweed plants at their disposal. Douglas-Michel Butterfly Plants offered plants for sale and explained how to best care for milkweed in well-draining soil.
Coyote Hills Regional Park, located on the outskirts of Fremont/Newark, CA, is a beautiful location and worth a visit. Bring your binoculars as there are an abundance of birds, butterflies, and wildlife nearby.
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Birds at the Alameda County Fair
Alameda County Fair small animals exhibit includes the following: ducks, peacocks, parakeets, doves, chickens, geese, parrolets, love birds, quail, finches, and swans. Wild owls live in the palm trees on the grounds.
My favorite was the parakeet exhibit with two green parakeets fighting over positioning on a ladder!
My favorite was the parakeet exhibit with two green parakeets fighting over positioning on a ladder!
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Birds at Alameda County Fair
Looking for the bird display at the Alameda County Fair...I will check it out and post information here. They usually have parakeets, finches, canaries, chickens, and maybe some parrots.
One of the themes is "Pick Up Chicks" http://www.alamedacountyfair.com/2010fair/home/index.php
One of the themes is "Pick Up Chicks" http://www.alamedacountyfair.com/2010fair/home/index.php
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Bird Watching on Sunday June 20 - Veterans Park in Livermore
Hosted by the Livermore Area Recreation and Park District ranger Patti Cole, we spent the evening viewing birds and a few mammals, too.
When the wild turkeys' calls changed abruptly we looked around for what might be causing the disturbance. Walking slowly near a barbeque pit was a beautiful bobcat. The cat crossed the open patio area, stopped to look at us all staring at him through binoculars, and slowly walked away. He was approximately 30 yards from the group.
When we returned to this same area from our walk, three turkeys were quietly roosting in the trees protecting their young under their wings.
Looking for summer birds in the evening, we found:
Great Blue Heron
Turkey Vulture
Wild Turkeys
American Kestrel
Anna's Hummingbird
Black Phoebe
American Crow
Scrub Jay
Brown Creeper
Bewick's Wren
House Wren
Dark-eyed Junco
Spotted Towhee
Along with the excitement of seeing the bobcat and the roosting turkeys, viewing a huge Great Blue Heron nest, complete with chicks was a highlight of the evening.
Future bird watching events will soon be posted on this blog. Until then, enjoy!
When the wild turkeys' calls changed abruptly we looked around for what might be causing the disturbance. Walking slowly near a barbeque pit was a beautiful bobcat. The cat crossed the open patio area, stopped to look at us all staring at him through binoculars, and slowly walked away. He was approximately 30 yards from the group.
When we returned to this same area from our walk, three turkeys were quietly roosting in the trees protecting their young under their wings.
Looking for summer birds in the evening, we found:
Great Blue Heron
Turkey Vulture
Wild Turkeys
American Kestrel
Anna's Hummingbird
Black Phoebe
American Crow
Scrub Jay
Brown Creeper
Bewick's Wren
House Wren
Dark-eyed Junco
Spotted Towhee
Along with the excitement of seeing the bobcat and the roosting turkeys, viewing a huge Great Blue Heron nest, complete with chicks was a highlight of the evening.
Future bird watching events will soon be posted on this blog. Until then, enjoy!
The Bat House Sale Continues at BirdLodges.com
Back by popular demand....low prices on Bat Houses at http://www.birdlodges.com/bat-houses.html
Bats love to eat insects and help keep the mosquito population under control.
Bats love to eat insects and help keep the mosquito population under control.
Monday, June 14, 2010
Bats Love Insects! Great prices at BirdLodges.com on Bat Houses
It's almost summer and the bugs are here. Did you know bats can eat thousands of insects per night? Check out www.BirdLodges.com for great prices on Bat Houses.
Interesting interview with a bat: http://www.nps.gov/bibe/naturescience/interview_bat.htm
Interesting interview with a bat: http://www.nps.gov/bibe/naturescience/interview_bat.htm
Sunday June 20 Bird Watching Walk
Return of the Summer Birds
Sunday, June 20 6:00 p.m.
It's summertime and the summer birds have returned. Join us for a walk in Veterans Park as we look for flycatchers, tanagers and any other wild birds in the park. For a change of pace we will be meeting at 6:00 p.m. instead of the usual early morning time. Bring binoculars and field guides if you have them, and some are available to lend for the program.
www.larpd.dst.ca.us LARPD is sponsoring this program
Livermore Area Park & Recreation District in California
Sunday, June 20 6:00 p.m.
It's summertime and the summer birds have returned. Join us for a walk in Veterans Park as we look for flycatchers, tanagers and any other wild birds in the park. For a change of pace we will be meeting at 6:00 p.m. instead of the usual early morning time. Bring binoculars and field guides if you have them, and some are available to lend for the program.
www.larpd.dst.ca.us LARPD is sponsoring this program
Livermore Area Park & Recreation District in California
Bat Mansion Bat House Sale
A great sale on Bat Mansion Bat Houses! Regularly priced at $70.00, on special for $64.50.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Father's Day Sale
$10.00 off on Bread Box Window Bird Feeders!! These make a great Father's day gift for dad, or mom!
Monday, June 7, 2010
BirdLodges.com and Eco-Friendly Products
In addition to the sustainably grown eastern white pine products, BirdLodges.com also offers birdhouses made from “scraps.”
The “Unique Natural Bark Birdhouses” are made in Northern Michigan from items found in the forest. Formerly part of the living forest protecting woodland creatures, these tree branches, twigs and bark now have a new life as birdhouses.
No two of the birdhouses are alike because the building materials, while similar, give each birdhouse a unique look. Comical names, such as “Mother-In-Law” and “Condominium” also create a distinct personality when decorating your yard with birdhouses.
In addition to the sustainably grown eastern white pine products, BirdLodges.com also offers birdhouses made from “scraps.”
The “Unique Natural Bark Birdhouses” are made in Northern Michigan from items found in the forest. Formerly part of the living forest protecting woodland creatures, these tree branches, twigs and bark now have a new life as birdhouses.
No two of the birdhouses are alike because the building materials, while similar, give each birdhouse a unique look. Comical names, such as “Mother-In-Law” and “Condominium” also create a distinct personality when decorating your yard with birdhouses.
The Sunday Duckling Count
This week there were only three very young ducklings in the Arroyo Las Positas. Lots of adult ducks, one jackrabbit and two very vocal and close flying black-necked stilts. With the sun setting in the background the ducks were in silhouette on the water.
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Piedmont Bird Callers on David Letterman 2010
A link from YouTube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wL7WO2_6JY4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wL7WO2_6JY4
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Piedmont High Bird Callers
Don't miss the Piedmont High School Bird Callers on Late Night with David Letterman, Wednesday May 26 at 11:30 PM on CBS.
This contest began in 1963. Here's a link to their web site:
http://www.piedmont.k12.ca.us/phs/campus-life/bird-calling.php
This contest began in 1963. Here's a link to their web site:
http://www.piedmont.k12.ca.us/phs/campus-life/bird-calling.php
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
BirdLodges.com and the Environment
BirdLodges.com and the Environment
The majority of www.BirdLodges.com products are made from Eastern White Pine. This wood is considered sustainably grown because it is grown in plantation farms in its native Eastern North America.
This pine is the state tree of Michigan and also Maine, where the products are hand made. Eastern White Pine is considered a soft pine which makes it easy to work with.
From the smallest birdhouse (Wren House) to the largest bird feeder (Breadbox Window Feeder), you will enjoy using your Eastern White Pine BirdLodges.com product knowing its “green” environmentally friendly origin.
Resource: www.Wikipedia.org
The majority of www.BirdLodges.com products are made from Eastern White Pine. This wood is considered sustainably grown because it is grown in plantation farms in its native Eastern North America.
This pine is the state tree of Michigan and also Maine, where the products are hand made. Eastern White Pine is considered a soft pine which makes it easy to work with.
From the smallest birdhouse (Wren House) to the largest bird feeder (Breadbox Window Feeder), you will enjoy using your Eastern White Pine BirdLodges.com product knowing its “green” environmentally friendly origin.
Resource: www.Wikipedia.org
Sunday, May 16, 2010
BirdLodges.com Bird Watching
I wonder what that hawk, possibly a Red-Shouldered Hawk, was thinking as it sat on a fence post overlooking eight lanes of interstate freeway traffic.
Speaking of hawks, if you are looking for a Kestrel House be sure to check out BirdLodges.com for this and many more wild bird and animal products.
Speaking of hawks, if you are looking for a Kestrel House be sure to check out BirdLodges.com for this and many more wild bird and animal products.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
BirdLodges.com bird watching on Mother's Day
BirdLodges.com goes bird watching on Mother's Day:
And a beautiful morning it was. Cloudy with sprinkles and no wind. Sycamore Grove Park in Livermore, CA is home to a variety of wildlife. Along the Arroyo Del Valle you might see frogs, pond turtles, dragonflies, ducks or even muskrats. In addition to this riparian area there are grassland and oak woodland habitats. Deer, ground squirrels, butterflies, lizards and birds such as red-tail hawks, white-tail kites, scrub jays, magpies and meadowlarks are just few of the animals you might spot in these areas. www.larpd.dst.ca.us/open_space/sycamore.html
Birds observed:
Wood Duck
Turkey Vulture
White Tailed Kite
Red-Shouldered Hawk
American Kestrel
Acorn Woodpecker
Ash-Throated Flycatcher
Scrub Jay
Plain Titmouse
White-Breasted Nuthatch
Wren
European Starling
Lesser Goldfinch
This park is full of oak, eucalyptus and sycamore trees with many snags and holes for birds to use for nests. For those who would like to provide habitat for wild birds, BirdLodges.com offers birdhouses for wood ducks, kestrels, woodpeckers, flycatchers, titmouse, nuthatches, wrens and many more.
The next bird watching trip is Sunday, May 16 at 2:00 in Veteran's Park, Livermore, CA.
And a beautiful morning it was. Cloudy with sprinkles and no wind. Sycamore Grove Park in Livermore, CA is home to a variety of wildlife. Along the Arroyo Del Valle you might see frogs, pond turtles, dragonflies, ducks or even muskrats. In addition to this riparian area there are grassland and oak woodland habitats. Deer, ground squirrels, butterflies, lizards and birds such as red-tail hawks, white-tail kites, scrub jays, magpies and meadowlarks are just few of the animals you might spot in these areas. www.larpd.dst.ca.us/open_space/sycamore.html
Birds observed:
Wood Duck
Turkey Vulture
White Tailed Kite
Red-Shouldered Hawk
American Kestrel
Acorn Woodpecker
Ash-Throated Flycatcher
Scrub Jay
Plain Titmouse
White-Breasted Nuthatch
Wren
European Starling
Lesser Goldfinch
This park is full of oak, eucalyptus and sycamore trees with many snags and holes for birds to use for nests. For those who would like to provide habitat for wild birds, BirdLodges.com offers birdhouses for wood ducks, kestrels, woodpeckers, flycatchers, titmouse, nuthatches, wrens and many more.
The next bird watching trip is Sunday, May 16 at 2:00 in Veteran's Park, Livermore, CA.
Friday, May 7, 2010
Bird watching, to catch a meadowlark
I'm hoping to catch a glimpse of the meadowlark living in the tree across the street. This bird is singing its heart out!
Monday, May 3, 2010
Wild Bird Watching May 2, 2010
Yesterday morning was the first of three bird watching opportunities in Livermore, California. This event was held in the northern part of town in what is commonly known as Springtown. The weather was beautiful as we walked and watched for over two and a half hours.
Birds spotted:
Ducks and Geese - Mallard and Cinnamon Teal
Ducklike Swimmers - American Coot
Seabirds - Gull
Long-legged waders - Black-crowned Night Heron and Green Heron
Smaller Waders - Black-necked Stilt, American Avocet, Wilson's Snipe, Long-billed Dowitcher
Game Birds - Ring-necked Pheasant
Diurnal Raptors - Red-tailed hawk, Cooper's Hawk, American Kestrel
Vultures - Turkey Vulture
Pigeons and Doves - Mourning Dove
Hummingbirds - Anna's Hummingbird
Flycatcher - Black Phoebe
Swallows - Barn Swallow
Corvids - American Crow, Common Raven
Chickadees & Titmice - Bushtit
Mockingbirds - Northern Mockingbird
Thrushes - American Robin
Starlings - European Starlings
Blackbirds - Red-winged Blackbird
Sparrows - Song Sparrow
Finches - Lesser Goldfinch and House Finch
Weaver Finches - House Sparrow
The terrain of this area is flat, open, and grassy with an arroyo with relatively still water. There were several ducklings of all different stages of development. One highlight of the day was to see the Cooper's Hawk quickly chased away by several Red-winged Blackbirds.
We are looking forward to the next events on May 9 and 16.
Birds spotted:
Ducks and Geese - Mallard and Cinnamon Teal
Ducklike Swimmers - American Coot
Seabirds - Gull
Long-legged waders - Black-crowned Night Heron and Green Heron
Smaller Waders - Black-necked Stilt, American Avocet, Wilson's Snipe, Long-billed Dowitcher
Game Birds - Ring-necked Pheasant
Diurnal Raptors - Red-tailed hawk, Cooper's Hawk, American Kestrel
Vultures - Turkey Vulture
Pigeons and Doves - Mourning Dove
Hummingbirds - Anna's Hummingbird
Flycatcher - Black Phoebe
Swallows - Barn Swallow
Corvids - American Crow, Common Raven
Chickadees & Titmice - Bushtit
Mockingbirds - Northern Mockingbird
Thrushes - American Robin
Starlings - European Starlings
Blackbirds - Red-winged Blackbird
Sparrows - Song Sparrow
Finches - Lesser Goldfinch and House Finch
Weaver Finches - House Sparrow
The terrain of this area is flat, open, and grassy with an arroyo with relatively still water. There were several ducklings of all different stages of development. One highlight of the day was to see the Cooper's Hawk quickly chased away by several Red-winged Blackbirds.
We are looking forward to the next events on May 9 and 16.
Friday, April 30, 2010
Monday, April 26, 2010
Bird Watching
There are three opportunities to bird watch in May, thanks to the Livermore (CA) Area Recreation and Park District:
Birds of North Livermore
Sunday, May 2 8:00 p.m.
It’s time again for our spring pilgrimage to the north side of town. We’ll be looking for birds in breeding plumage, breeding activity, and any signs of nests or young. This is an easy walk, appropriate for all ages and levels of birding experience. We will travel along a wheelchair accessible paved path. This program will last about 2 hours. For more information or directions, please call (925) 960-2400.
Ranger Patti Cole Marlin Pound Park
2010 Bluebell Drive
(across from Buckskin
Mother’s Day Birds
Sunday, May 9 8:00 a.m.
At this time of year mother (and father) birds are busy defending their territories, protecting their brood from nest robbers, cleaning out the nest, feeding their young’uns and teaching them the finer points of flying. We’ll take a long, in-depth look at the domestic life of these wild creatures on this birdwalk, which will last about two hours. Beginners are encouraged to attend. Don’t forget your binoculars and field guides; we’ll have a few to lend.
Ranger Pat Sotelo Sycamore Grove Park
Nature Area Entrance
Birds
Sunday, May 16 2:00 p.m.
Birds are one of the most diverse and, some would say, the most beautiful, groups of animals on earth. There is a wide variety in color, shape, size and habit. How did they get that color? How come they can fly? What exactly makes a bird a bird anyway? Join us to answer these questions and more about these wonderful animals.
Ranger Dawn Soles Veterans Park
Birds of North Livermore
Sunday, May 2 8:00 p.m.
It’s time again for our spring pilgrimage to the north side of town. We’ll be looking for birds in breeding plumage, breeding activity, and any signs of nests or young. This is an easy walk, appropriate for all ages and levels of birding experience. We will travel along a wheelchair accessible paved path. This program will last about 2 hours. For more information or directions, please call (925) 960-2400.
Ranger Patti Cole Marlin Pound Park
2010 Bluebell Drive
(across from Buckskin
Mother’s Day Birds
Sunday, May 9 8:00 a.m.
At this time of year mother (and father) birds are busy defending their territories, protecting their brood from nest robbers, cleaning out the nest, feeding their young’uns and teaching them the finer points of flying. We’ll take a long, in-depth look at the domestic life of these wild creatures on this birdwalk, which will last about two hours. Beginners are encouraged to attend. Don’t forget your binoculars and field guides; we’ll have a few to lend.
Ranger Pat Sotelo Sycamore Grove Park
Nature Area Entrance
Birds
Sunday, May 16 2:00 p.m.
Birds are one of the most diverse and, some would say, the most beautiful, groups of animals on earth. There is a wide variety in color, shape, size and habit. How did they get that color? How come they can fly? What exactly makes a bird a bird anyway? Join us to answer these questions and more about these wonderful animals.
Ranger Dawn Soles Veterans Park
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Saturday, January 23, 2010
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