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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

Working with Penguins – a Highlight of this Zookeeper’s Experiences

findiviglio — Tue, 16 Oct 2012 14:56:18 +0000

Penguins Win Me Over

Hello, Frank Indiviglio here. I first became enamored of penguins at the Bronx Zoo’s old “Penguin House”. Twice a day, a door would open and a pail of fish would be tossed into the exhibit. Fashioned like a giant aquarium, the exhibit allowed visitors to watch the penguins dive and grab their meals underwater. Living near the zoo, I had long haunted its grounds and had racked up some great sightings of both captive and wild birds by an early age (nearly 300 native species have been recorded there) – but these creatures were something else indeed! They were birds, to be sure, but departed so radically from the typical bird body-plan that I was driven to learn all I could.

Today, of course, penguins are well known, but for us bird fanciers they still retain a sense of mystery…more so as new facts about their amazing lifestyles come to light!

Working with Penguins

I began working with penguins some 28 years ago, but the experience remains clearly etched in my memory. Named for the intrepid explorer Ferdinand Magellan, the Magellanic Penguins (Spheniscus magellanicus) I cared for were housed in an outdoor exhibit at the Bronx Zoo. The work was particularly enjoyable because, due the number of medications that the penguins needed (they lack defenses against diseases carried by native birds), they were trained to line up and accept fish tossed to them. This assured accurate dosing, and, to be honest, was a great excuse to work closely with these most amusing birds.

I once helped hand-rear a young penguin that had been rejected by its parents. All went well, but the bird lacked penguin social skills and consequently was attacked when reintroduced to the colony. Birds imprinted on people often experience difficulties…a hand-raised Great Horned Owl I cared for would try to feed mice to me during the breeding season! So the exiled penguin spent her days waddling around the basement of the Aquatic Bird House, following her keepers and growing evermore spoiled.

Fortunately, the Philadelphia Zoo had some hand-raised penguins, so I drove ours there to make the introduction. The bird made the trip standing on the front seat of the zoo’s van, and I laugh to this day remembering the reactions of gas station attendants along the way! Happily, the Philly birds accepted their big city cousin – but the return trip was quite boring!

Range

Penguins are restricted to the Southern Hemisphere, where they inhabit the coasts of Antarctica, New Zealand, southern Australia, southern Africa and southern South America. None occur north of the equator (and so, despite popular opinion, they never cross paths with polar bears!) but in recent years 2 penguins turned up off Newfoundland…how they got there, no one knows.

Although generally perceived as birds of frigid habitats, a number occur in quite warm areas of South America and Africa. However, the Humboldt, Benguela and Agulhas Currents assure that cold water is readily accessible.

Another commonly-held stereotype is that all penguins nest on ice. Some do, but others utilize frozen grasslands, sub-tropical beaches, bare rock, lava, and even temperate forests.

Penguins reach their greatest species diversity not in Antarctica but rather in the sub-Antarctic waters off New Zealand and the Falkland Islands. The Antarctic coastline does, however, support the greatest number of individual penguins.

Dietary Specialists

Most penguins feed upon fishes, squid and shrimp. Surprisingly, however, Adelie, Chinstrap, Macaroni and Gentoo Penguins subsist almost entirely upon krill. Although barely 2 inches in length, these shrimp-like creatures may be the planet’s most numerous species – some 550 million tons of them are believed present in the Southern Pacific Ocean at any one time!

What’s Next, and What Can I Do?

Please post a comment here and share any zoo or wild penguin experiences you may have. I’ll also be covering various species in detail in future articles, so don’t forget to let me know your favorites.

While working on an exhibit at Connecticut’s Maritime Aquarium recently, I had the good fortune of being able to get close to a group of Black-footed or African Penguins, Spheniscus demersus (please see photo). This species, also known as the Jackass Penguin (due to its bray-like call), is the only penguin to nest in Africa. Its breeding range stretches from the South Africa/Namibia border around the bottom of the continent to Port Elizabeth, South Africa. Please look for my upcoming article on this fascinating bird.

If you wish to learn what you can do to help wild penguins, check out the International Penguin Conservation Work Group.

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

Thanks, until next time,

Frank Indiviglio

Keeping the Tawny Frogmouth with Notes on its Natural History

findiviglio — Thu, 23 Aug 2012 16:41:45 +0000

Hello, Frank Indiviglio here. Photos of the Tawny Frogmouth (Podargus strigoides), with its huge yellow eyes, gaping mouth, “expressive face” (an impression given by the feathery “eyebrows”) and owl-like plumage, have captivated me since childhood. For years, I stalked Whip-poor-wills, Nighthawks and other of its relatives that dwelled in the USA. Actual contact with a Frogmouth was delayed, however, until I began working at the Bronx Zoo. But it was worth the wait, and I soon came to spend many days and nights cramming food into the capricious maws of hungry Frogmouth chicks…as much to my delight as theirs!

Classification

Although superficially resembling an owl in plumage, silent flight mode and nocturnal ways, the Tawny Frogmouth is classified in the order Caprimulgiformes. Numbered among this group’s 118 members is the cave-dwelling Oilbird, the only bird known to navigate via echo-location.

Tawny Frogmouths are placed in the family Podargidae, along with 14 relatives. Three Tawny Frogmouth subspecies – the largest being 3x the size of the smallest – have been described. Other species include the Papuan Frogmouth, of the Cape York Peninsula and New Guinea, and the Marbled Frogmouth, a rainforest dweller found in northern Queensland and New Guinea.

The 8 North American relations belong to the family Caprimulgidae (loosely translated as “goat-suckers”). I’ve observed 2 of these, the Whip-poor-will (Caprimulgus vociferous) and the Common Nighthawk (Chordeiles minor), in the heart of NYC. In fact, the swooping, erratic flight of Nighthawks, which resemble outsized bats, was a common sight over Bronx buildings in my youth. Flat rooftops serve Nighthawks as nest sites, but their numbers have declined in recent years. The Chuck-will’s-widow (Caprimulgus carolinensis), first recorded in New York in 1975, has been observed nesting on Staten and Long Island.

Captive Care

You’ll need to visit a zoo if you wish to see a Tawny Frogmouth in the USA, but wildlife rehabilitators in Australia are frequently called upon to care for displaced chicks and injured individuals.

During the day, Frogmouths perch on dead limbs, relying on their mottled plumage to provide camouflage. They often stretch upward, in imitation of a branch, as well. Frogmouths make great exhibit animals, content to perch in full view all day; however, they do become stressed if denied logs or stumps. I’ve kept several in exhibits lit by red bulbs, where they have proven to be surprisingly active.

Rearing Chicks

Frogmouths under my care bred well but did not always raise their chicks successfully. Hand-rearing, however, was usually successful.

Frogmouth chicks have appetites that match their enormous mouths, and, even by baby bird standards, consume an amazing amount of food. Chopped mice are the standard zoo diet, but given that they are largely insectivorous, I experimented with other foods as well. Roaches, grasshoppers, moths, earthworms, insectivorous bird diet, beef heart and other such foods were eagerly consumed.

I do not have my old notes on hand, but recent studies have shown that hand-reared Frogmouth chicks often gain 8-9 grams per day, consistently, before fledging.

Adult Diet

Most zoos provide only mice or chicks to their Tawny Frogmouths. I’ve cared for several that have bred and lived into their early teens on this diet, so it appears adequate. However, my Frogmouths showed a very strong response to large insects, especially roaches and grasshoppers. While it’s difficult to maintain birds of this size on invertebrates alone, occasional meals certainly add to their quality of life.

Although mainly ambush predators that pounce on prey from above, Frogmouths also hunt actively…at least when stimulated by novel foods. They have also been observed chasing moths around street lights.

Close Call with a Cassowary (for me and a frogmouth!)

Frogmouths remain largely immobile, but are very aware of their surroundings…a fact I learned the hard way. After working with one individual for some time, I came to expect him to remain perched on his favorite stump as I serviced his cage in one of the Bronx Zoo’s off-exhibit areas. He did…until he didn’t!

One day, he flew past me and out the door…taking off without a sound when I turned my back. Knowing that birds sense and follow air currents, I first ran to close the building’s unscreened kitchen window (a notably foolish feature in a bird building!). I returned to find that the wayward Frogmouth had flown into the pen occupied by Margie, a notoriously ill-tempered Cassowary (please see article below). The Frogmouth froze, head stretched up, in the species’ classic camouflage pose – perplexing Margie enough to make her pause. She circled, itching to kick the intruder into oblivion, but did not charge. I grabbed a “push board”, entered, and was able to catch the frightened Frogmouth before either of us could be attacked.

Natural History

Range

The Tawny Frogmouth is found across the length and breadth of Australia, and also occurs on Tasmania and several offshore islands.

Habitat

Although most common in sparsely-wooded scrub and forest clearings, the Tawny Frogmouth also inhabits rainforest edges, overgrown farmland, gardens and city parks. It is absent from deserts and rainforest interiors.

Diet

Field studies have shown that beetles, moths, spiders, centipedes, snails and other invertebrates make up approximately 95% of the diet. Frogs, lizards and small mammals comprise the balance.

Most Frogmouths drink infrequently, if at all.

Breeding

Reproduction occurs seasonally in most habitats, or in response to rains in arid regions. Most observers report that the male incubates the 2-3 eggs by day, with both parents entering the nest cavity at night. The eggs hatch in 27-31 days and the chicks, which are fed by both parents, fledge when they are approximately 1 month old.

Conservation

Although most populations are stable, cats, foxes and cars pose increasing threats. Secondary pesticide poisoning is also a concern.

Torpor

Tawny Frogmouths can tolerate quite high and low temperatures. In common with several related species, they can become torpid during cold nights – hibernating, in essence, for short periods.

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

Thanks, until next time,

Frank Indiviglio

How Pink Pigeons Saved me from Life as a Lawyer

findiviglio — Tue, 06 Mar 2012 19:51:37 +0000

Hello, Frank Indiviglio here. First, I should explain the odd title. I grew up near the Bronx Zoo and dreamed of a career there since early childhood. Early on, however, responsibilities made it impossible for me to consider zoo work, a notoriously low-paying field. By the early 1980’s, however, things changed and I was volunteering at the Bronx Zoo and doing everything else I could think of to break into the field. But I was a lawyer at the time, and, despite years of experience with well-known animal importers and bird breeders, the zoo’s management did not believe I seriously intended to abandon such a lucrative profession. Then the Pink Pigeons came to the rescue…

“Thanks, Pigeons”

After a year of failed attempts, I managed to land an interview for a position as bird keeper. As the curator and I walked and talked, I caught sight of a group of unusual birds, and stepped closer. I thought they might be Pink Pigeons, Nesoenas mayeri. I was shocked, as there were but 12 individuals left in the wild at the time, and captive breeding efforts had only just begun.

The curator was surprised that I knew anything at all about the relatively unstudied birds. As luck would have it, I was smack in the middle of Gerard Durrell’s wonderful Golden Bats and Pink Pigeons, and so their plight was fresh in my mind. It also turned out that these rarities were the curator’s “pet project”. There were many highly-qualified candidates for the job, but in that moment, she made her decision and my life took on a new and fortunate course.

Breeding Pink Pigeons at the Bronx Zoo

One of my first rotations in the Department of Ornithology involved the breeding of Pink Pigeons and Birds of Paradise. We relied upon a technique known as “double-clutching” to bolster our Pink Pigeon population. The first eggs produced by each female were removed, whereupon she would lay another clutch. The first clutch was then placed under the care of a female Ring-Necked Dove.

Pigeons feed their young with “pigeon milk”, a unique food generated from the lining of the crop. Dove “milk” was suitable for Pink Pigeon chicks, but how they manufactured enough of it I’ll never know. Within weeks, the Pink Pigeon chicks were twice the size of their “foster-moms”. The doves would perch on the pigeons’ backs when brooding…looking like bizarre little “bird hats”!

My work with the pigeons was fascinating, and I threw myself into it with a passion. Due largely to the efforts of legendary conservationist Gerard Durrell, Pink Pigeons are doing better these days…I like to imagine that I have aided their recovery in some small way, and perhaps “paid them back” for helping me land my dream job.

Natural History

The Pink Pigeon is found only on the island of Mauritius, which lies east of Madagascar, off the coast of southeastern Africa. By 1980, deforestation, cyclones, and introduced monkeys, mongooses, cats and rats had reduced the wild population to 12 individuals. “Pigeon Wood”, a 15 acre stand of Japanese Red Cedar Trees, comprised their entire range.

Mauritius’ best known bird is the now-extinct Dodo, but other species, many endemic, have suffered as well. Kestrel, Fody (please see photo) and Fruit Bat populations plummeted, and both native tortoises were extinct by the mid 1800’s. The island is also home to the world’s rarest Psittacine, the Echo Parakeet (please see article below).

As was his way, Gerard Durrell took up the task of saving the Pink Pigeon from certain extinction. Today, over 350 individuals live on Mauritius, and the species is well-established in captivity. The Pink Pigeon story stands as a fine and all-too-rare example of what can be accomplished, even in the direst of scenarios.

Keeping Exotic Pigeons

The Rock Dove, or “city pigeon”, has given many of its relatives a bad rap, but bird enthusiasts know that the family Columbidae contains some of the world’s most gorgeous species. From fantastically-colored fruit doves to the massive blue Victoria Crowned Pigeon, a surprising number are well-established in captivity. Please see this article for further information.

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

Thanks, until next time,

Frank Indiviglio

The WorldBirds Data Base – an Exciting Conservation Tool Open to all Birders

findiviglio — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 18:31:29 +0000

Hello, Frank Indiviglio here. Established in 2003 by Birdlife International, the WorldBirds Birdwatcher’s Data Base now has 16,000 regular users and over 3 million recorded observations. Unlike many professionally-organized efforts, WorldBirds is open to ornithologists and casual and serious birders alike. It is an excellent, enjoyable way to contribute to worldwide conservation projects and communicate with others who share your passion.

Your Observations Count

Research fund availability and the sheer scope of what needs to be done places severe limits on conservationists…paid professionals can not handle everything. Even when I worked for the Bronx Zoo and other well-funded organizations, I relied heavily upon volunteers. Much of the data that later found its way into professional publications was generated by them, not I.

Fortunately, birders tend to write things down – not only life lists, but also details concerning habitat, weather and so on. This information can be invaluable to those working on projects ranging from single-species protection to international migration flyway monitoring. Observations of even very common birds may be very useful pieces of larger conservation puzzles.

Using the WorldBirds Data Base

Anyone can record their observations on WorldBirds (please see link below) or use it to learn such things as where to find specific birds or what sightings might be expected in various places. Other useful features include news updates, assistance with planning birding trips and species checklists for many regions.

And, of course, you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing that your observations may be used to advance important conservation efforts for rare birds and threatened habitats. Children are encouraged to participate and to view their contributions as valuable. From Red Shining Parrots to Snail Kites and mangrove swamp preservation (please see photos), you can learn and participate on some level via WorldBirds.

Related and Independent Efforts

WorldBirds currently has a presence in 160 countries, and is managed in the USA by the National Audubon Society. When all the data bases that link to it are considered, the number of recorded observations far exceeds the 3 million+ registered on the main website. In Portugal, a whale and dolphin monitoring function is being added.

Observations recorded by birders have proven useful in the management of several Important Bird Areas and to the functioning of the Wintering Bird Atlas, Breeding Bird Atlas, Common Bird Monitoring Project and other efforts sponsored Birdlife International.

Several important projects based in the USA also rely upon the efforts of “everyday” birders, and all are easy to become involved with, and quite enjoyable. One of the most ambitious, the Christmas Bird Count, is right around the corner! Please see the articles linked below for details.

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

Thanks, until next time,

Frank Indiviglio

Further Reading

WorldBirds Website and participant information

US Initiatives: Project FeederWatch, Christmas Bird Count

Seabird Foraging Database

Red Shining Parrot image referenced from wikipedia and originally posted by Duncan Wright
Snail Kite image referenced from wikipedia and originally posted by Dario Sanches

Post from: That Bird Blog

The WorldBirds Data Base – an Exciting Conservation Tool Open to all Birders

The post The WorldBirds Data Base – an Exciting Conservation Tool Open to all Birders appeared first on That Bird Blog.

Holiday Season Treats and Cautions for Parrot and Finch Owners

findiviglio — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 17:05:43 +0000

Hello, Frank Indiviglio here. Holiday visits and celebrations, pleasurable as they are, can also bring some nasty surprises to both people and pets. A bit of planning now can help make the upcoming season safe and enjoyable for you and your birds.

Stress, Noise and Late Nights

Responsible bird owners know that certain holiday treats and, of course, alcohol, are bad for birds. But many overlook the important role that sleep plays in bird health (please see article below). If you entertain late, or will be out often during the holidays, keep in mind that most birds need 10-12 hours of sleep in a dark, quiet environment. If necessary, move your pet’s cage to an area that is off-limits to guests, and shut the room lights via a timer if the rest of your house will be lit after the usual “lights-out” time. Maintaining a stable day/night cycle is good for your birds mental and physical health.

Holiday parties can mean a house stocked with loud, tipsy guests, excited children and unfamiliar dogs. Each of these “creatures” (especially, those influenced by alcohol!) may take liberties with your pets that they otherwise would not. If it will be difficult for you to monitor all that is going on, consider keeping your birds in a locked room while parties are in progress (or “raging”, as the case may be!).

I’ve worked with parrots that thrived in hectic surroundings, such as busy nature centers and classrooms, but these individuals were exceptions. In general, parrots regard strangers and unusual events as threats. It’s important to remember that, however tame they may be, parrots are not domesticated animals, and remain governed by instincts and behaviors that have evolved over many millions of years.

Canaries, Finches and other Birds

All birds are highly aware of their environments, even though most do not show this as obviously as do parrots. Wild finches, canaries, doves and softbills are on the menus of a wide array of predators, and they are, therefore, exceedingly cautious by nature. I’ve even had small birds die “of fright” in my hand…please keep the delicate natures of your smaller birds in mind as the holidays approach.

Un-caged Parrots

Parrots that adjust well to strangers, and which spend time out of their cages, face different risks than do their shyer cousins. Most of these threats are well-known, but they bear repeating. Shiny ornaments, unique foods, ribbons, toys and electric wires may all be dangerous to curious pets.

Also, think carefully before offering your parrot a taste of those special holiday foods that may come your way. Since they may not familiar to you, take time to read the list of ingredients. Some hold unpleasant surprises for birds (and us!), even if they “appear” healthful…there’s a lot more than just “fruit” in the typical holiday fruit cake, for example!

Bird-Friendly Treats

I’m not a complete Scrooge…there are many tasty, nutritious surprises that you can buy or make for your pet birds, and for wild ones that you may feed. Please see the article below for holiday snacks that are quite simple to prepare, and check out our line of treats for pet and wild birds.

Gifts for Bird Owners

Need a gift for the bird owners on your list? From simple “build your own bird toys” to extravagant, mansion-like cages, the options are limitless.

In my opinion, Joseph Forshaw’s classic Parrots of the World makes an unbeatable gift for parrot enthusiasts. Covering the natural history of every parrot species and subspecies, it goes way beyond what can be found in typical pet care books, and is an enjoyable read besides.

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

Thanks, until next time,

Frank Indiviglio

Winter Bird Feeding – Rare Bird Update and Some Useful Products

findiviglio — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 15:03:52 +0000

Hello, Frank Indiviglio here. Winter brings with it unique bird-watching opportunities, as cold weather forces otherwise-shy species to visit feeders in search of food. Rare visitors driven south by severe weather and others blown off course during migration also brighten birders’ days. Today I’d like to alert you to several new (and standard) bird feeding products, and highlight some ways to see the unusual avian visitors to your neighborhood.

Birding Surprises

Wherever you are located, winter birding is an exciting prospect. Often, unexpected birds tend to stay put for quite awhile, due to disorientation and the need to remain near a newfound food source. Checking with the many on-line and telephone services (yes, phone-based reports still exist, check here!) is a great way to remain aware of what’s going on nearby; if luck is with you, you can then go out and see the bird that has been reported.

Local birders in and around NYC have already posted sightings of Snowy Owls, Nashville Warblers, Lincoln’s Sparrows and Winter Wrens. In Los Angeles, recent notable visitors include Eurasian Widgeons, Short-Eared Owls and Mountain Bluebirds. Regularly checking the North American Rare Bird Alert or your local Audubon Society chapter will keep you informed about both unusual and regular avian visitors.

Winter Bird and Wildlife Feeders

Winter drives squirrels to even greater food-stealing efforts than usual. The Bird Buffet Squirrel Proof Feeder and similar models will help to thwart them. If squirrels, raccoons, opossums, cats or other animals become a serious problem around your feeders, you may wish to consider a humane live trap (please write in for advice if you are not experienced in animal trapping).

Some folks, myself included, enjoy watching the antics of Red, Gray and Flying Squirrels. The Combo Squirrel Feeder can be set to serve either or both furry and feathered visitors.

Suet Feeders should always be available to provide high protein foods to Nuthatches, Woodpeckers, Creepers and other insect specialists.

Winter Foods

While most any appropriate food will be useful, certain items are especially suitable for harsh weather, when energy needs and other factors influence both people and wildlife.

No Mess Patio Mix contains hulled seeds; ideal for severe weather when it is difficult to clean up around feeders, or anytime you are not physically able to do so (and you’re not paying for shells, only seeds!).

Peanuts, cracked corn and Squirrel Logs are ideal for those who wish to feed squirrels, chipmunks, deer and other mammals. Many birds, including Bobwhite and California Quails and various doves, also relish cracked corn. Peanuts will attract Blue Jays, Monk Parrots and numerous others.

Wild Delight Food Blocks are available in a variety of mixes that are specifically formulated for finches, woodpeckers and general use. Protein and energy-rich Suet Bars and the newer Suet Pellets are important winter standards for woodpeckers, chickadees and many others.

Quails, Doves, Pheasants and other ground-feeding birds are especially at risk following heavy snows. Birdlover’s Quail, Dove and Pigeon Mix spread about on a cleared patch of ground will help them to get by.

Nuthatches, Thrashes, Woodpeckers and many other birds continue to feed upon hibernating insects, and their eggs and pupa, throughout the winter. Freeze-dried mealworms will be greatly appreciated by both insectivorous and omnivorous birds.

Extras and Fun Items

The simple wooden Audubon Bird Call that we currently carry is the exact same model I used over 40 years ago! While I can’t say I ever accurately mimicked any bird, the sounds I created caused just about every species to stop and look around, allowing me a better view without scaring them away. I even used it while working at the Bronx Zoo, in order to attract the attention of meerkats, bald eagles, flying squirrels and all sorts of other creatures…a unique item that should be useful to photographers as well.

A supply of open water is a very important but often over-looked winter necessity. A Birdbath De-Icer will simplify the task of providing water when temperatures drop below freezing.

Please also post your questions and comments below…I’ll be sure to respond quickly. Thanks, until next time, Frank Indiviglio.

Mischievous Birds I Have Known – Margie the Cassowary

findiviglio — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 19:38:43 +0000

Hello, Frank Indiviglio here. Parrots are well-known for causing mischief by both word and action (please see article below), but they are certainly not the only birds capable of “misdeeds”. Today I’d like to introduce you to one member of the cast of avian troublemakers who have amused me with their antics over the years. From Birds of Paradise to King Vultures, my zoo years were filled with unique characters that gave new meaning to the phrase “Never a dull moment”!

Courting Trouble

Armed with powerful legs and a long, sharp spike on each foot, the huge Cassowary is one of the world’s most formidable birds. Margie, long under my care at the Bronx Zoo, was peaceful enough, but always refused to come indoors for the evening. She was given snacks during the day, and caught grasshoppers, mice and other treats on her own, and so was rarely hungry enough to be lured with food.

Margie particularly disliked a co-worker of mine, and so at closing time he would enter her cage, whereupon she would charge him with murder in her eyes. As he bolted out of the holding cage, I would slam the door, locking her indoors for the night (we had to re-enact this little game with a herd of peccaries and a pygmy hippo as well, and so kept in relatively good shape!).

Punching Bag for a Cassowary

My co-worker, a good-hearted fellow who genuinely loved his job, felt bad for the frustrated Margie…he believed she really deserved to catch him just once, or at least to vent her anger. He assuaged his guilt by occasionally locking me into Margie’s cage for a few seconds as she chased me out (I doubt this did much for the bird, but it certainly kept me on my toes!). But his favorite ploy was to lounge with his back resting against her holding cage (a chain-link fence through which her sharp spur could not fit). Upon seeing this, Margie would very slowly and carefully sneak up behind him and then shoot out a mighty kick. My co-worker would careen across a narrow alleyway, bounce off another cage, and then hit Margie’s cage again…whereupon he would be rewarded with yet another blow.

I watched this odd game many times, and was always left with the impression that Margie looked forward to it as much as we did. This was decades before “behavioral enrichment” became a zoo catch-phrase, but it certainly was just that. Margie lived a very long life in the peak of good health, and really did seem to “look forward” to chasing us.

Cassowary vs. Frogmouth

Margie may have saved my job by hesitating to slaughter one of her neighbors. While still a novice bird keeper, I once allowed a Tawny Frogmouth (a wonderfully-odd Australian bird, please see photo) to fly past me as I entered its cage. This was in a holding building, where birds were held for breeding.

The Frogmouth flew into Margie’s open-topped enclosure. The very territorial Cassowary spun to confront intruder – intending, I’m sure, to kick him into oblivion. But rather than trying to escape her, as did every other sane creature, the Frogmouth employed its classic “dead stump” defense (please see photo) by freezing in place with head pointed skyward. This seemed to puzzle Margie, and had the added benefit of allowing me enough time to rush in and snatch him up (somehow avoiding a kick to the chest or points south in the process).

I returned the lucky fellow to his cage, and was spared explaining why we were short 1 well-liked, breeding male Frogmouth.

I’ll cover some other unique avian characters in future articles…please write in with your own bird stories and experiences.

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

Thanks, until next time,
Frank Indiviglio

Canary Shows – Rating the Songs of American Singer Canaries

findiviglio — Fri, 02 Sep 2011 15:12:09 +0000

Hello, Frank Indiviglio here. Bird clubs and associations regularly sponsor shows in which parrots, finches and others can compete for prizes based on appearance, color and even “breed standards”. Less common, but very popular among canary enthusiasts, are singing competitions. But just how does one judge something as “natural” as a bird’s song? Today we’ll look at the surprising array of criteria used to rate the songs of the ever-popular American Singer Canary. If you are looking to add a new aspect to your hobby, singing competitions might be the way to go (your own efforts will not be appreciated, so please leave the singing to your Canary!).

American Singer History

The breed known as the American Singer Canary was developed in the 1930’s. Canary enthusiasts seeking a good songster with a calm personality searched for breeds that might be crossed to produce a bird with both qualities. The German Roller was chosen for its singing abilities while the Border Canary was selected due to its good nature and suitability as a pet. Cross-breeding Rollers with Borders produced the American Singer Canary, which has become one of the most popular of all breeds.

Older breeds noted for their songs, including Timbrados, Rollers and Waterslagers, are judged according to strict standards (specific notes must be produced, etc.). However, American Singer Canaries are noted for producing unique songs – variety and “freedom” are valued above all else. Judges apply set criteria, but not in the same manner as with other breeds.

Judging Song Quality

American Singer Canaries are judged on a 100 point basis, with 70 points being allotted to the actual song, and 30 applied towards the bird’s appearance and condition. Talent is definitely valued over “surface beauty”!

Canary songs are evaluated over a 20 minute period, which is divided into two 10 minute segments. In the first, or “Freedom” segment, the Canary is awarded 1 point (to a maximum of 10) for each complete song produced. Song quality is not considered, although I imagine an impression is being formed in the judges’ minds at this time.

In the second 10 minute period, known as the “Rendition” segment, the judge evaluates the songs based on specific but somewhat subjective criteria. Sixty points are at stake. The following factors are considered:

Volume

Variety – how the various tunes and notes are spread about

Tone – pitch, strength; how the song “sounds” to the ear

Melodiousness – how the various notes and song bits flow into one another

Showmanship – how the bird “conducts himself” during the song; an upright posture and a bold, “proud” demeanor is valued

Evaluating Physical Appearance

The 20 minute song evaluation accounts for 70 points. The remaining 30 possible points are awarded based upon physical attributes. “Condition” (10 points) refers to the canary’s grooming (nail length, feather condition), activity level or vigor and overall health. The cleanliness and set-up of the cage (there are specific rules as to perch placement, etc.) are also considered.

The “Conformation” evaluation (20 points) accesses how well the Canary meets the physical standards that have been established for plumage, size, body and head shape and other such characteristics; color is not considered.

The Ideal Canary

If you enjoy Canary songs, I suggest that you stop in at a competition and perhaps consider becoming involved. Due to the flexible standards that have been established, it is easiest to begin competing American Singers. As a bonus, American Singer Canaries are available in a wide variety of colors and make very trusting pets…and even the “least gifted” usually sing beautifully!

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

Thanks, until next time,

Frank Indiviglio

Fossil Allows Researchers to Distinguish Sex of Ancient Bird-Like Creature

findiviglio — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 15:08:51 +0000

Hello, Frank Indiviglio here. Pterosaurs (incorrectly labeled “Pterodactyls” by old-timers such as I) flew the skies during the Mesozoic Era, some 220-65 million years ago. The huge head crests sported by many have baffled scientists since the first specimen was found in 1784 (please see drawing). However, a recently discovered fossil hints that sexual dimorphism may be involved, and has allowed researchers to determine the sex of fossilized Pterosaurs for the first time.

Technically, Pterosaurs are flying reptiles, not birds. Yet they possess many bird-like qualities, so I thought that bird enthusiasts might be interested in this latest finding concerning their lives. In any event, taxonomy is constantly blurring the lines between various groups (for example, birds are now considered to be “modern dinosaurs”, and closely related to crocodilians), so perhaps Pterosaur classification may change in the future…

Mysterious Head Ornamentation

Sixteen Pterosaur families are known, with certain species bearing head crests that are up to 5 times the height of their skulls. Those without crests were alternately considered to be juveniles, a different sex or a different species from crest-bearing individuals. Therefore, their taxonomy and natural histories remained cloudy.

Fossil Detective Work

The finding that led to our most recent peek into Pterosaur life is a Darwinopterus fossil that was found in northeastern China. The specimen bore no crown, and, as it carried a fully-developed, was a female. As other Darwinopterus Pterosaurs do sport large head crests, researchers now believe that the species is sexually dimorphic, with males using the crests to attract mates or intimidate rivals.

This new information should help in unraveling the natural histories of these interesting creatures, taking us past identification and into an understanding of how they lived and why they disappeared. Harried museum curators may find it a mixed blessing, as Pterosaur collections must now be re-evaluated as to species identity.

How Pterosaurs Lived

Much like modern birds, Pterosaurs had hollow bones and keeled breastbones to allow for the attachment of powerful flight muscles. Brain, lung and skeletal adaptations parallel those evolved by birds as well. Once believed to be gliders, it is now clear that Pterosaurs were capable of actual flight.

The many species that have been identified exhibit a great diversity of forms and apparent lifestyles. Sporting wingspans ranging from 9 inches to 35+ feet, the toothed jaws of some species evolved into long, bird-like beaks. An analysis of beaks, feet and skeletons indicates that various Pterosaur species fed in a similar manner to flamingoes, albatrosses, puffins, herons and other modern day birds.

Quetzalcoatus, the largest known flying animal, had wings that spanned 35 feet and may have weighed in excess of 500 pounds (please see artist’s recreation). Much like today’s storks and cranes, it is believed to have stalked small animals on land.

Please check out my posts on Twitterand 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