That Bird Blog » Bird Intelligence

Crows as Pets: The African Pied Crow, a Most Intelligent Bird

findiviglio — Mon, 06 May 2013 19:23:40 +0000

Uploaded to Wikipedia Commons by Snowmanradio

Hello, Frank Indiviglio here. My fascination with Corvids (crows, ravens, jays and their relatives) began in childhood, when I cared for injured American Crows and Blue Jays. In time, I was able to work with their exotic relatives at the Bronx Zoo, and was thrilled to observe the antics of Japan’s famous tool-using Carrion Crows (please see article below) in the wild. Possessed of keen intelligence, insatiable curiosity and voice-mimicking abilities, hand-raised crows have few equals as avian pets. Native Corvids are protected in the USA, but foreign species may be kept, and several are regularly bred by hobbyists. Among these is the spectacular African Pied Crow, Corvus alba, which makes as responsive a pet as can be imagined.

Description

Although not common in the US pet trade, the Pied Crows that appeared in recent Windex TV ads have now made the species somewhat recognizable. Once seen, this 20-inch tall bird will not be forgotten. The Pied Crow sports an impressively-thick black beak that is midway in size between that of the American Crow and the White-Necked Raven (please see photo). A brilliant white collar and breast contrasts sharply with the glossy, jet-black plumage.

Range and Habitat

Africa’s widest ranging Corvid, the Pied Crow occurs south of the Sahara and inhabits most of the eastern and southern portions of the continent. They are also found on Aldabra, Madagascar, the Comoros and other nearby islands.

Pied Crows favor open forests and wooded scrub, but are often most common near towns, cities and farms. They do not occur in the rainforests or deserts.

African Pied Crows as Pets

Even casual observation reveals crows to be unusually intelligent…and not “just” by bird standards! Recent studies have shown that their tool-making and problem-solving abilities are on par with those of some great apes (please see articles linked below). Both ornithologists and those who have worked with crows generally consider them to be the most intelligent of all birds…apologies to parrot fanciers!

All are excellent mimics, and need little if any encouragement to copy sounds and words. Naturally social, crows quickly bond to their owners and may even learn to respond to simple commands. Their great intelligence is accompanied by a sensitive nature…despite being quite bold, Pied Crows are easily stressed by unthinking behavior on the part of their owners. They will not forget actions they perceive as threatening, so be careful not to make any mistakes…please post below for further information.

Another aspect of their brilliant minds is the capacity for mischief, and the need to manipulate, and if possible destroy, anything they can get their massive beaks on. This is an outgrowth of their natural behavior, and cannot be “trained” away. Pied Crows should never be left at large in a room that is not completely “crow-proofed”. Before allowing your bird access to a room, go through it as if you were about to release a gang of toddlers, and then check again!

Uploaded to Wikipedia Commons by Richard001

Housing

Pied Crows are large and very active, and need ample flight space. They will not adapt to commercial bird cages…even those designed for the largest macaws are far too small. A custom-built or commercial outdoor aviary, or a properly-outfitted indoor room, is the only option for a pet Pied Crow.

Crows kept outdoors tend to be very active and vigorous. Although they can be acclimated to cold weather, heated shelters are a must in temperate regions. Indoors, Pied Crows are best located where they can observe people…they also take an interest in televisions and phone conversations. Please post below for further information on aviary location and set-up.

Even if provided adequate space, Pied Crows will languish if not stimulated by toys, behavioral enrichment, and out-of-cage time. Daily interaction with people is essential if they are to remain handle-able. Concerning handling, it must be understood that the beak is a formidable weapon, and that even accidental injuries can be severe. Please post below for further information on handling.

Diet

Although they take an incredibly wide range of foods, Pied Crows have distinct carnivorous leanings. Rodents, carrion, eggs and insects form a large part of the natural diet.

Uploaded to Wikipedia Commons by Greg Hume

Crow owners have had success with diets based on cat and dog foods, but I prefer a diet similar to that I’ve used for many Corvid species in zoos. Commercial bird-of-prey diet, into which I mix pigeon pellets and softbill food, provides the bulk of their food intake. I believe that whole mice (or chicks) and insects are essential in assuring proper calcium intake and general good health. Tossing a handful of crickets or other insects into your crow’s aviary is a wonderful way to keep the bird occupied, especially if the insects are able to hide. Canned grasshoppers, snails and other invertebrates can be used to provide critical dietary variety. A wide range of vegetables, chopped nuts, and fruits (in moderate amounts) should also be provided. Hard-boiled eggs are an especially favored treat.

The Pied Crow’s natural diet contains a good number of whole animals, and is likely calcium-rich. In addition to pink or adult mice, pets should receive calcium and vitamin/mineral supplements. Natural sunlight and full spectrum bulbs will help assure adequate Vitamin D levels.

Please check out my posts on Twitter and Facebook. Each day, I highlight breaking research, conservation news and interesting stories concerning just about every type of animal imaginable. I look forward to hearing about your interests and experiences as well, and will use them in articles when possible.

Please also post your questions and comments below…I’ll be sure to respond quickly.

Thanks, until next time,

Frank Indiviglio

Goffin’s Cockatoo Invents and Modifies a Tool – a Parrot “First”

findiviglio — Wed, 26 Dec 2012 17:08:20 +0000

Hello, Frank Indiviglio here. A Goffin’s Cockatoo living at the Vienna University stunned researchers by exhibiting behaviors never before seen in any parrot species. The bird, known as Figaro, went far beyond “mere” tool use. When confronted with an out-of-reach treat, he first searched for a stick to use, and then modified the stick so as to better suit it for his purposes. Figaro’s accomplishments are especially surprising because he had not been trained in any way, nor had he observed other tool-using birds. He seems to have “envisioned” a concept and acted upon it. Please post your own “smart parrot” stories below.

Spontaneous and Unexpected Tool Use

Parrots are considered among the most intelligent of birds, but tool use has not been documented in their ranks. True, the majestic Palm Cockatoo bangs wood against hollow trees in order to communicate (please see this article) and many species wedge nuts into crevices to ease the job of opening them, but advanced tool use seemed beyond their abilities.

Figaro’s talents came to light purely by chance. A researcher happened to be nearby when Figaro dropped a stone behind a metal cage divider. Unable to reach the plaything with his feet, the enterprising cockatoo flew off and returned with a piece of bamboo. He used the bamboo to push the stone within reach.

Intrigued, the researcher tempted Figaro with a nut and a stick that was not long enough to reach the treat. Undaunted, the cockatoo used his powerful beak to remove a long wood splinter from the cage’s wooden floor, and then swept the nut within reach with the new tool. In time, Figaro made a variety of tools from the floor and a tree branch, modifying them to fit each situation and always succeeding in retrieving his rewards (please see video and photos of tools linked below).

Another Goffin’s Cockatoo who watched Figaro perform his magic tried to imitate him when tested. This bird did not succeed, but perhaps will improve in time. This unique situation may provide an interesting opportunity to study the evolution of learning abilities…I’ll post future updates.

Crows, Herons and other Avian Inventors

Crows, Ravens and their relatives (Family Corvidae) excel at fashioning and using tools. In fact, it has been suggested that Ravens’ abilities in this area rival those of the Great Apes. In Japan, I saw evidence of the intelligence of the local Carrion Crows, which not only use passing cars to break nuts but also seem to understand the functioning of traffic lights! New Caledonian Crows have proven unbelievably inventive, going though several steps and a number of different tools in order to obtain a reward. Please see articles linked below for more on these fascinating birds.

Green Herons are quite adept at recognizing and using tools to improve their fishing success. Wild individuals drop small sticks on the water’s surface to lure fish close enough for a strike, while those colonizing fish farms will do the same with trout chow and bread (please see video below). I was once impressed by the behavior of a related species. For quite some time, I fed fish to a wild Night Heron that lived near an outdoor exhibit under my care at the Bronx Zoo (please see photo). The bird never failed to appear when I arrived, yet did not show up on my weekends, even though co-workers wore the same uniform and carried the same food bucket (studies show that Mockingbirds can recognize individual human faces…please see this article).

Goffin’s Cockatoos in the Wild and Captivity

Goffin’s Cockatoos are captive bred in large numbers but endangered in the wild. Listed on CITES Appendix I, they are endemic to Indonesia’s Tanimbar Islands. Introduced populations live on Tual Island (Indonesia) and in Singapore. Please see the articles below for more on their natural history and captive care.

Want to brag about your bird’s intelligence? Please post your stories below!

Please also post your questions and comments below…I’ll be sure to respond quickly.

Thanks, until next time,

Frank Indiviglio

Macaw, Spouting Foul Language, Banned from School

findiviglio — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 15:55:13 +0000

Hello, Frank Indiviglio here. Educators at an animal rescue center in the UK got a rude surprise when they recruited “Mr. T” to visit local schools as part of a conservation-themed program. The 7 year-old Green-Winged Macaw was friendly and eager to show off his speaking abilities, but most of what he said was not fit for classroom use. Before coming to the rescue center, Mr. T had lived in a private home, and had picked up a huge vocabulary…unfortunately, almost all of it consisted of curses and insults!

Un-learning Bad Habits?

One rescue center employee is working with Mr. T to see if he might be taught to stop cursing. In my experience, however, teaching a macaw to speak is easier than teaching it to forget what has been learned (much like 3 year-old children who pick up the “wrong” words!).

A related and very interesting phenomenon is unfolding right now in several Australian cities. Cockatoos that have escaped from captivity are teaching entire flocks of wild individuals to speak! Please see this article for the very amusing details.

Fortunately, the rescue center where Mr. T resides is home to “well-behaved” wallabies, kangaroos, scorpions and other animals, so his services as an educator are not needed immediately. It will be interesting to see who prevails, the macaw or his new teacher…I’m betting on Mr. T!

Parrots Behaving Badly

Mr. T is not the only Psittacine to be ejected from various UK forums in recent times. Awhile back, an Amazon persisted in cursing like a trooper each time he was called upon to perform in a play…despite the fact that he knew his lines perfectly (seems like he planned the “mistakes” very carefully!). Another was banned from a bar for stealing drinks, heckling pool players and starting fights by whistling at female patrons (this bird now living in more appropriate surroundings). Please see this article for details.

But one cursing parrot, an African Gray named Mishka, has done quite well for herself – winning an international speaking contest and a movie role. Please see the video and article below… her repetition of “I want to go to the Kruger Park with Sterretjie” (Sterretjie is her favorite companion, a Ring-Necked Parakeet) is priceless!

Odd Birds I have Known

Mischievous birds of all kinds enlivened my zoo career. Margie, a Cassowary, liked to sneak up and kick her fence whenever anyone leaned against it. A fellow zookeeper allowed himself to be ambushed regularly, and the huge bird really seemed to look forward to “surprising” him. An Indian Hill Myna that called “Help, let me out” in a huge aviary was quite a hit with visitors…but not with the zoo director, when he came to record bird calls for an upcoming presentation! From overly-amorous Great Horned Owls to overly-aggressive Turacos, there have been many odd characters in my life… please see the articles below for details.

Most bird owners and bird watchers have their share of amusing or embarrassing stories…please write in with yours, so that I can share them with other readers.

Please also post your questions and comments below…I’ll be sure to respond quickly.

Thanks, until next time,

Frank Indiviglio

The Moluccan (Salmon-Crested) Cockatoo – Captive Care and Conservation

findiviglio — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 16:11:12 +0000

Hello, Frank Indiviglio here. It’s not easy to stand-out among such spectacular birds as the cockatoos, but the Moluccan Cockatoo (Cacatua moluccensis) does so admirably. In size, color, trainability, and many other ways, it is in a class by itself. This adds to the species’ allure, but there is a downside…wild populations are plummeting, and their needs, as pets, are beyond the capabilities of many owners.

Description

At 20 inches in length, the Moluccan is the largest of the white-colored cockatoos. Females often exceed males in size, and are also distinguished by their brown, as opposed to black, eyes.

The white body feathers, infused with pink, are often described as having a “peach-colored hue”. Even by cockatoo standards, the head crest is magnificent, being very long and colored deep-pink to orange-red.

Range and Habitat

The Moluccan Cockatoo is known from only 4 small islands within the Malaccan or Spice Island chain in Indonesia. It seems now to have disappeared as a breeding bird from all except Seram Island, where only two significant populations remain.

Within its tiny range, the Moluccan Cockatoo relies upon primary (un-cut) lowland forests. Unfortunately, this habitat is disappearing rapidly due to logging activities. It sometimes appears in secondary forests, but has difficulty breeding there due to the lack of suitable nesting sites (tree cavities high above the forest floor).

Conservation

The Moluccan Cockatoo is listed on CITES Appendix I and classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN. Habitat loss due to lumbering and dam building appears to be the greatest current threat.

In the past, populations were decimated by collection for the pet trade. Estimates place the numbers exported between 1980 and 1990 at 75,000+; in-country sales were also significant. Despite legal protections, poaching continues, and wild-caught cockatoos are sold openly in some Indonesian markets.

As is true for any species confined to a small island, storms and similar natural events can cause overnight population crashes.

Moluccan Cockatoos as Pets: Loveable, but…

Moluccans are considered by many to be among the most intelligent and responsive of all cockatoos. Pets are often described as sociable and affectionate, and may form extremely strong bonds to a single person. Professional trainers, zoo educators and others who use Moluccan Cockatoos in bird shows and demonstrations rave about their abilities to learn tricks and mimic words and sounds.

However, the needs of a large, intelligent, active bird of any species must be carefully considered by potential owners. Perhaps even more than their relatives, pet Moluccans are prone to developing severe behavioral problems if denied proper care, space and attention. Feather-plucking, screaming and stress-related illnesses are all-too common. Birds that bond to one person, or are in breeding condition, may become aggressive…and with beaks capable of cutting into young coconuts (a favorite food), they can inflict serious injuries.

A loud (even by parrot standards!), shrill call and copious powder-down production are other points to consider.

A large indoor cage or outdoor aviary, along with ample out-of-cage time, is absolutely essential to their well-being. Please write in for information on care and feeding.

A Plea to Potential Cockatoo Owners

Desirable qualities tempt many to underestimate the difficulties entailed in owning a cockatoo of any species. Please research carefully, speak with cockatoo owners and write me for advice before acquiring one of these magnificent birds.

Please also post your questions and comments below…I’ll be sure to respond quickly.

Thanks, until next time,

Frank Indiviglio

Unique Bird Behavior – Ravens Use Beaks to “Show” Objects to Mates

findiviglio — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 18:28:55 +0000

Hello, Frank Indiviglio here. The act of holding up or pointing to an object, in order to draw another’s attention, has been observed only among ourselves and Great Apes. Known as deictic gesturing, this behavior is considered critical to the development of language, and a sign of great intelligence (you parents will likely recall the first time your toddler did something similar!). Along with parrots, crows, and magpies, Common Ravens, Corvus corax, have proven themselves among the brightest of the world’s birds. Recently, they have been observed to utilize deictic gestures, and are the only birds known to do so.

“Hey…look at this if you care about me”!

Researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Ornithology and the University of Vienna have reported that Ravens pick up objects such as stones, branches and moss and show them to other Ravens. In most cases, the bird being solicited is the other’s mate. Once his or her attention is drawn, the pair usually jointly manipulates the object for a time.

Pair formation in Ravens is a long, complicated process, and mated birds are known to engage in complex tasks that require a high level of cooperation. This, and their intelligence, was long ago recognized by people living within their range. In the northern reaches of North American and Asia, Ravens featured prominently in mythology and folklore. Ornithologists believe that showing and jointly “handling” objects may be used to test the suitability or interest of a potential mate, and to strengthen the bond once the birds have paired up.

Parrots and Crows Ace Tests

Several other interesting studies concerning avian intelligence have been published recently. Most have focused on Parrots and Corvids (Crows, Magpies, and Ravens). Believed to be the most intelligent of all birds, the learning abilities of both groups have shocked researchers. In some test situations, New Caledonian Crows have scored on par with Chimpanzees and other Great Apes.

The articles linked below describe some of what these brilliant avian test-takers have accomplished recently – Keas that learn and build upon problem solving skills and discard them when need be, Japanese Crows that take advantage of both traffic and traffic signals when feeding, African Gray Parrots that pick and choose human words to fit specific situations, and more…

Please also post your questions and comments below…I’ll be sure to respond quickly.

Thanks, until next time,

Frank Indiviglio

European Blackbirds as Pets – Captive Care and Natural History

findiviglio — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 17:47:31 +0000

Hello, Frank Indiviglio here. The USA’s native birds are protected by law, and may only be kept in captivity by licensed rehabilitators (European Starlings, may be kept in some states, please see article linked below). However, folks who wish to keep “wild” birds do have another options. Several European species may be legally kept as pets, provided they have been captive-bred. One of my favorites is the beautiful European Blackbird, Turdus merula.

Natural History

With his jet black plumage and bright yellow bill and eye-ring, the male European Blackbird is quite striking. Females, clad in dark brown, have their own subdued beauty. White-splotched individuals appear regularly (please see photo), and albinos have been selectively bred in captivity.

The European Blackbird’s huge range extends from the UK east and southeast to northern Iran and China. Several subspecies have been described, and introduced populations are established in Australia and New Zealand.

Originally birds of open woodlands and overgrown fields, theses hardy generalists have adapted to life among people, and frequent farms, suburban gardens and large cities.

European Blackbirds as Pets

Although declining in some parts of England, the European Blackbird is generally common, and in the springtime fledglings are often picked up by well-meaning individuals and raised as pets. They usually prove to be quite responsive to people, and this remains the main way in which Blackbirds find their way into captivity.

However, European Blackbirds are also being captive-bred, and they are sometimes available in the USA through breeders and importers specializing in exotic softbills. Hand-raised youngsters make interesting pets, and parent-raised birds usually tame down readily.

Here in the USA, where Crows and European Starlings are common, folks tend to think of black-feathered birds as loud and raucous. However, the European Blackbird is closely related to the Song Thrush, and the male sings in a soft, melodious voice. Their alarm calls, like those of many birds, are loud and hash.

Housing

Active and cold-hearty, European Blackbirds are best kept in large, well-planted aviaries. Life in an outdoor aviary is a great way of keeping these inquisitive birds occupied and interested in their surroundings. Whether hunting or scolding a passing competitor, Blackbirds kept outdoors tend to be more active and vigorous than indoor birds.

A custom-made cage is best for indoor housing, although well-habituated individuals will adjust to large macaw cages. Out-of-cage time in a bird-proofed room should also be provided.

Diet

These attractive songsters are insect specialists, but also take a great deal of fruit at certain times of the year. A highly varied diet, packed with insects and other protein-rich foods, is essential if you want to keep your birds in peak color and condition. I’ve always maintained insect traps, such as the Zoo Med Bug Napper, to help meet the needs of the birds under my care.

Pets fare well on high-quality commercial insectivorous bird food (please write in if you have difficulty in locating this) into which has been mixed Softbill Select, Myna Pellets, hard-boiled egg and some cooked ground beef.

European Blackbirds relish grasshoppers, katydids, earthworms, crickets, spiders, sow bugs, beetles, termites, moths, mealworms, waxworms, maggots, silkworms – almost any invertebrate, in other words! Please see these articles on Collecting Feeder Insects to learn more about increasing dietary variety.

Canned snails, grasshoppers and silkworms, marketed for use with captive reptiles, are a convenient means of increasing the nutritional content of Blackbird diets.

Fresh fruit, including figs, apples, plums, grapes, pears, berries and seasonally available varieties, should be offered daily; squash, cucumbers, carrots and cooked yams should also be tried. Your bird will likely enjoy prepared fruit/vegetable based “cook-and-serve” foods formulated for large parrots.

Wild European Blackbirds forage by tossing dead leaves aside to reveal hidden insects. Pets never lose their “tossing tendencies”, and can create quite a mess at mealtime.

Breeding

Captive breeding is regular but not common, and is best attempted in an outdoor aviary. Indoors, one should adjust the day/night cycle to match that of their natural range.

A supply of dry grasses and mud is essential for pairs that are preparing to nest. The nest will be constructed by the female, but the male “helps” (enthusiasm in this regard varies…some males seem more of a nuisance than anything else!) to gather materials. A nest box or thick shrub will be used.

The eggs, 3-6 in number, are blue-green and speckled with reddish spots. They are incubated by the female for 13-16 days, and the male helps with feeding once the chicks hatch. The youngsters fledge at 2 weeks of age, but are fed by their parents for an additional 2-3 weeks.

A steady supply of live and canned insects (please see above) is essential if the chicks are to be raised successfully. In fact, their insatiable appetites are likely the main reason for the scarcity of captive-raised Blackbirds. Some estimates place their needs at over 100 insects each, per day; this is in line with what I have read in field research reports on similar species. One can easily see how important Blackbirds and other insect-eaters are to people, but their dietary needs do complicate captive breeding. I’m not aware of any attempts to provide parents with insect substitutes, but this tactic often fails with other highly-insectivorous birds.

Please also post your questions and comments below…I’ll be sure to respond quickly.

Thanks, until next time,
Frank Indiviglio

Is a Macaw the Right Pet for You – a Species-by-Species Review

findiviglio — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 16:23:15 +0000

Hello, Frank Indiviglio here. Many parrot enthusiasts view macaws as the ultimate avian pets. Huge, personable, gorgeous and enormously intelligent, macaws seem to embody all that is desirable in a pet parrot. However, macaw ownership is not to be undertaken lightly…while the rewards are great, there are many responsibilities and “downsides” to consider as well.

General Considerations

If you’ve ever been surprised by the volume of noise a budgie or lovebird can generate, consider what their massive relatives can do! Macaw vocalizations must be heard to be believed. I’ve observed Scarlet Macaws and others on Venezuela’s wide open grasslands, and have worked with them in huge zoo exhibits – even in these habitats, their calls were often deafening. Highly social, it is in their nature to vocalize almost continually.

Innate sociability drives macaws to bond with people, but many owners underestimate what this means. An hour or 2 spent with your bird before and after work is rarely enough to meet its needs. Wild macaws are never out of contact with mates and flock members for long…pets, especially those housed alone, demand more attention than most owners can provide. And even with a great deal of close contact, the relationship can be rocky. While macaws can be among the sweetest of all pets, most have very strong personalities and will test you on a regular basis. Large, powerful beaks and brains render them as birds to be taken seriously.

All parrots, even the tiniest, need lots of space. This fact of parrot life takes on greater importance when your pet is a 30-40 inch long, highly active macaw. Close confinement is torturous for macaws, and will lead to a host of often irreversible problems.

The aforementioned points apply to all macaws. Following is some information that is specific to individual species. Please bear in mind that while a species may exhibit certain tendencies, individual personalities will vary, and a bird’s past history will greatly affect its potential as a pet. As with all animals, certain individuals will appear to break all of their “species’ rules”.

Big and Beautiful, but…

The spectacularly beautiful Scarlet Macaw is among the world’s most recognizable birds. However, as regards pet potential, its beauty is often “skin deep”. Scarlet Macaws are strong-willed and quick to take offense. This, coupled with their natural tendency to communicate physically, i.e. by nips and bites, renders them as birds best left to well-experienced keepers.

Other species sharing the Scarlet’s characteristics are the Military, Severe and Buffon’s Macaws.

Ideal Large Macaw

The Green-Winged (Red and Green) Macaw is an excellent “alternative” to the Scarlet. Among the largest of its family, the Green Wing looks a lot like the Scarlet Macaw, but is, in general, a much calmer bird. Most individuals have very steady personalities, and many develop impressive vocabularies.

The Blue and Gold Macaw has been a favorite of mine ever since I cared for a group of youngsters at a bird importer’s facility many years ago. My boisterous little gang acted like a bunch of puppies, even rolling on their backs and “pawing” the air. In time, I learned that many keepers considered Blue and Golds to be among the most intelligent and playful of all macaws. They are loud, but almost always mild-mannered, and very “forgiving” of typical first-timer mistakes.

The Blue-Throated Macaw puts one in mind of a scaled down Blue and Gold, and is also a good choice for those new to macaw keeping.

The huge Hyacinth Macaw, largest of all, often makes a fine pet and mimics words quite well. At once imposing and beautiful, Hyacinths demand a great deal of attention but are usually very gentle to those with whom they bond.

Mini Macaws…a Wonderful “Compromise”

At 10-11 inches in length, Hahn’s Macaw is the world’s smallest. However, along with the slightly larger Noble Macaw, it is a true macaw in every sense of the word. If you’re looking for a giant parrot in a small package, either will fit the bill. Both are sociable, playful and, like most macaws, a bit loud. The Noble is often steadier in personality than the Hahn’s, and less likely to bite when disturbed.

The Yellow-Collared Macaw is small by macaw standards, but requires a calm, knowledgeable owner who can control its free-wheeling temperament.

Please check out my posts on Twitter and Facebook . Each day, I highlight breaking research, conservation news and interesting stories concerning just about every type of animal imaginable. I look forward to hearing about your interests and experiences as well, and will use them in articles when possible.

Please also post your questions and comments below…I’ll be sure to respond quickly.

Thanks, until next time,

Frank Indiviglio

Budgerigar (Parakeet) Study Reveals how Birds Avoid Crashes in Tight Quarters

findiviglio — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 16:51:37 +0000

Hello, Frank Indiviglio here. If you observe wild birds, you’ve no doubt marveled at their ability to fly through dense brush without touching a single branch. In NYC, I’ve twice been surprised to see pigeons flying at full speed through amazingly tight spaces when pursued by Red-Tailed Hawks. Bats utilize echolocation to perform similar feats, but with few exceptions (i.e. the Oilbird, please see below), birds lack this adaptation. So how do they do it? According to a recent study (Current Biology, Oct., 2011) at Australia’s Vision Center and the University of Queensland, some species rely upon vision alone.

“See-Compare-Adjust Course”

Researchers worked with Budgerigars (Parakeets) that had been trained to fly an indoor course that allowed for careful monitoring. They were able to show that the birds used their vision to sense and compare the speed at which they passed background images, and then adjusted their flight path accordingly.

As birds move forward, objects that are near seem to speed by quickly; objects that are further away appear to go by at a slower pace. So, as a bird gets closer to an object, the eye nearest it will perceive that object to be moving faster than objects seen by the other eye. The bird will then veer away from the nearby obstacle to avoid a crash.

This “sounds good on paper”, as they say, but what amazes me is the speed at which birds perform these maneuvers. Add to that the complex, ever-changing environments and wind conditions to which birds in flight are subjected, and you’ll realize what skilled navigators they are.

Monocular vs. Binocular Vision

Budgerigars and most other birds have monocular vision – that is, eyes that are set widely apart on either side of the face. This orientation is ideal for flying as described above, because each eye is usually seeing a different object.

Hawks, herons and certain other predatory birds have, in common with us, binocular vision…forward facing eyes that can focus on a single object simultaneously. This allows for effective hunting. I wonder if they are able to navigate with the same efficiency as Budgerigars (perhaps not – I have observed several hawk-crane-heron accidents). Most fly in relatively open environments, but Sharp-Shinned Hawks and some others are known for pursuing prey through dense tree cover.

Specialized Navigators: Owls, Oilbirds and Swiftlets

Birds of all kinds have other amazing flight adaptations that enable them to survive. The nocturnal, cave-dwelling Oilbirds and Cave Swiftlets can fly and feed in complete darkness, aided by a form of echolocation similar to that used by bats.

In certain owls, one ear is located slightly higher on the head than the other. Sound reaches each at a slightly (very slightly, I imagine!) different time, and can be used to triangulate the sound’s source. By triangulation, Barn Owls can locate and capture an unseen mouse that is over a football field distant from them! Perhaps this ability explains why Barn Owls are among the most widespread of all birds of prey…I’ve observed them several NYC neighborhoods, and they nest on every continent except Antarctica.

Please check out my posts on Twitter and Facebook . Each day, I highlight breaking research, conservation news and interesting stories concerning just about every type of animal imaginable. I look forward to hearing about your interests and experiences as well, and will use them in articles when possible.

Please also post your questions and comments below…I’ll be sure to respond quickly.

Thanks, until next time,

Frank Indiviglio

During Hard Times, Eclectus Parrot Moms Kill Male Chicks and Raise Females

findiviglio — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 13:23:28 +0000

Hello, Frank Indiviglio here. The Eclectus Parrot is well known for an unusual degree of sexual dimorphism (males are emerald green, females bright red) and a breeding strategy wherein several males mate with a single female. But no one expected the results of a recent study: under certain circumstances, mothers will kill their male chicks and raise only females. Other than humans, Eclectus Parrots are the only species known to kill offspring based solely upon gender.

Harsh Conditions and Drastic Adaptations

The study, published in the journal Current Biology (October, 2011), was conducted by researchers based at the Australian National University. The study site was at Cape York, Queensland, in Australia’s tropical northeast (Eclectus Parrots are also found on New Guinea and many Indonesian islands).

The unusual behavior seems driven by the scarcity of safe nesting holes, which are generally located 90 feet or so above ground. Nest sites closer to the ground are vulnerable to flooding, and to predation by scrub pythons and monitor lizards. Females fight viciously over prime nest sites, and may occupy the same one for many years.

Female Eclectus chicks are easier to rear than males, and fledge as much as a week earlier than their brothers. Apparently, time is of the essence during very rainy years, or in particularly vulnerable nests, because females will kill the more “costly” male chicks when certain conditions are met. In doing so, they increase the likelihood of successfully rearing at least 1 chick (only 2 eggs are produced). Details need to be explored, as not every mother in a poor nest site will kill her male offspring, but the pattern is quite clear.

Choosing the Chick’s Sex?

According to some researchers, females that typically use low nest hollows have evolved a way to choose the sex of their offspring, dispensing with males before they are born.

Other Eclectus Strategies

Some Eclectus Parrot populations are already skewed in favor of females. I wonder if this helps to explain another of their odd breeding behaviors. Unlike most parrots, female Eclectus will mate with multiple males, each of whom will feed her while she is on the nest.

Females Eclectus Parrots rarely leave the nest hole during the nesting season, and so rely entirely upon their mate for food. Multiple males were thought to be an “insurance” policy against the death of one. But only a small percentage of females can find and keep safe nest sites. Perhaps the males must share successful females if they are to have any chance of contributing to the next generation?

The fact that even such a popular, well-studied parrot holds such secrets is very exciting…we really never can tell what will come to light next!

Please also post your questions and comments below…I’ll be sure to respond quickly.

Thanks, until next time,

Frank Indiviglio

Number of Unwanted Parrots Reaches an All-Time High in the USA

findiviglio — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 19:31:49 +0000

Hello, Frank Indiviglio here. Recent advances in parrot husbandry and captive breeding may have had an unintended effect. Lower prices and a larger selection of available species may be contributing to a problem of epic proportions – hundreds of thousands of abandoned parrots, macaws and cockatoos, many of which will never find a permanent home. While parrot ownership has soared a staggering 147% over the past 20 years, from 11.6 million pets in 1990 to 60 million in 2010, our ability to provide for them has not kept pace.

Desirable but Demanding

The very qualities that draw people to parrots – intelligence, sociability and long lives – also render them as unsuitable pets for the average person. Many live as long as their owners, who often find it difficult to provide for their pets, financially and otherwise, as time goes on. According to a study by Best Friends Animal Society, it is not unusual for an elderly parrot to have 7-11 owners over the course of its life.

Parrots are likely the USA’s third most popular pet, yet many people do not realize that, unlike dogs and cats, they are not domesticated animals. As wild animals, parrots have very different needs than domestic creatures. Few people are able to provide the space, social situation and emotional environment needed by these active, “complicated” birds. I have observed many species in the wild, and, despite years of study and zoo experience, was surprised by how much of their time was spent on the move and in direct contact with others. The noise they produced was deafening…even on wide-open grasslands.

Permanently Homeless

Unfortunately, even a short period of social isolation or stress can lead to screaming, self-mutilation and other behavioral problems that may be nearly impossible to reverse, even with intense therapy. Such birds are virtually impossible to re-home, and often spend their lives in over-crowded shelters.

Frightening Statistics: Legal and Illegal Pets

According to Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, the US captive parrot population could swell to 100 million by the year 2020. US breeders now hatch 2-5 million parrots yearly, and an additional 15,000 birds are legally imported. I was quite surprised to read that, despite our long-term ban on wild-caught parrots, illegal imports remain a problem. The US Fish & Wildlife Service estimates that 20,000 parrots illegally enter the USA from Mexico each year, with at least 5,000 smuggled in from elsewhere!

Overworked parrot rescuers are, by and large, terrified by these figures. The USA’s approximately 100 large parrot sanctuaries currently provide for 100 – 2,000 birds each; those kept by smaller organizations bring the total number of unwanted birds into the 6 digit range. Largely supported by donations, such organizations simply cannot continue at this pace, much less expand their work.

How to Help

Please post here or email me (see below) for advice before deciding on parrot ownership. Other things you can do include supporting parrot rescue and conservation organizations (please see below), volunteering at shelters, educating others and fostering/adopting rather than purchasing parrots.

Please check out my posts on Twitter http://twitter.com/#!/findiviglio and Facebook http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000972624553. Each day, I highlight breaking research, conservation news and interesting stories concerning just about every type of animal imaginable. I look forward to hearing about your interests and experiences as well, and will use them in articles when possible.

Please also post your questions and comments below…I’ll be sure to respond quickly.

Thanks, until next time,

Frank Indiviglio

That Bird Blog » Bird Intelligence

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Number of Unwanted Parrots Reaches an All-Time High in the USA

Desirable but Demanding

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Frightening Statistics: Legal and Illegal Pets

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