by Ann Markin | Nov 14, 2022 | Uncategorized
In addition to our year-round finches, the House Finch and the American Goldfinch, winter often brings more species of finches into our area. Irruptive migrations of Pine Siskins, Common Redpolls, and Purple finches typically occur every two to three years or so....
by Ann Markin | Sep 9, 2022 | Uncategorized
Often referred to as “wild canaries,” Goldfinches are actually in the finch family. American Goldfinches, those found in the Omaha area, and Lesser Goldfinches, are the two types found in North America. In flight, Goldfinches have a distinct dipping pattern. They also...
by Ann Markin | Apr 10, 2022 | Uncategorized
I often have red-winged blackbirds visit my yard for a day or two in the spring, and this year I had two males for only one day each. They were probably in a hurry to stake their territories for the breeding season. In summer, Red-winged Blackbirds are commonly seen...
by Ann Markin | Oct 8, 2021 | Uncategorized
That owls are “wise” may be a myth, unless you define “wise” as being accomplished in night hunting. With their hooked bills and sharp talons, they are similar to other birds that hunt, such as hawks and eagles, but there are striking differences that make owls the...
by Ann Markin | Aug 7, 2021 | Birds, Migration, Uncategorized
During the fall, as the days grow shorter and the temperatures begin to cool, millions of birds are preparing for the most hazardous journey of their lives. Long migrations are deadly for birds. It is estimated that about half of all migrating birds do not survive...
by Ann Markin | Jul 10, 2021 | Birds, Uncategorized
Long ago, native Americans hung up hollowed-out gourds to attract nesting Purple Martins. Today, we erect apartments in the sky or groups of plastic gourds for the same purpose. And over time, these beautiful birds have developed a relationship with humans unlike...
