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Not all bird feet are alike, even toe shape and placement can vary. One example of different toe alignment seen in birds is being zygodactyl, where two toes face forward and the other two face backwards. This can be seen in species such as woodpeckers, parrots and owls. This arrangement of toes is perfect for…
While out hiking in a field, you spot a little american kestrel in a telephone wire. Its back is to you and you notice an interesting pattern on the back of its head, which appears to resemble eyes. These feather patterns aren’t eyes though, they are called ocelli, or false eye spots. This adaptation can…
Feather quality is important for a bird’s survival, it provides insulation and flight to name a few. Keeping these feathers in top condition is crucial for their survival. To do this, birds spend lots of time preening, but it can be difficult to reach feathers around their face. Some species will have others of its…
If you asked someone what their favorite bird species is, many will respond with some species of owl. What’s not to like? They are a beautiful group of birds, full of mystery and not as often seen as other birds who are active during the day. When you see one, it tends to be the…
Owls are broken up into two different families, Strigidae (true owls) and Tytonidae ( barn owls). The family Strigidae consists of around 220 species and is found almost worldwide, on every continent except antarctica. Characterised by circular facial disks, cryptic coloring and many species possessing ear tufts. Like tytonidae they also have feathered legs, powerful…
Found throughout all but the northernmost parts of North America and parts of South America, this large stocky owl is well recognised by many as it is one of the most common owls on the continent. Characterised by its large ear tufts, mottled brown-gray plumage and white throat patch their color can vary depending on…