If you want to set a haunting scene, nothing does the trick like the mournful, solitary hoot of an owl emanating from an all-consuming darkness. As we continue our tour of spooky birds, not only do we have an owl, but we have the creepiest owl getting around, the Stygian Owl (Asio stygius). Stygian isContinue reading “Bird 216 – Stygian Owl”
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Bird 215 – Carrion Crow
As we enter October we come to a special time of the year, the month of Halloween. To celebrate we’re going to have a month of spooky birds. Are there spooky birds? You bet your bottom dollar there are spooky birds, and to start us off we’re going with a classic, the Carrion Crow (CorvusContinue reading “Bird 215 – Carrion Crow”
Parasitic Birds
Introduction When we think of a parasite the first thing that springs to mind might be a mosquito, or a tick, or a leech. Something that latches onto you and drinks your blood; usually a tiny insect … even though ticks are arachnids and leeches are a type of worm, but never mind about that.Continue reading “Parasitic Birds”
Bird 214 – Fright Moult
Here’s something a little different to chase away the lockdown blues. Have you ever seen a bird without a tail? They look kinda weird, hey. Almost like they’re a little baby bird, and maybe they are… Except, there’s another reason why a bird might be lacking a derrière. You’ll no doubt be familiar with the fact thatContinue reading “Bird 214 – Fright Moult”
Bird 213 – Inca Tern
This week I want you to meet one of the most fashion-forward birds there is, the Inca Tern (Larosterna Inca). Now, obviously this bird sells itself. It has the most splendid moustache that ever adorned the face of man or bird. They’re essentially the Salvador Dali of the bird world. From the name I’m sureContinue reading “Bird 213 – Inca Tern”
Bird 212 – Masked Booby
The lockdown bonus birds are back! This week I want to tell you a story about the USA and guano. But first, let’s meet a bird, the Masked Booby (Sula Dactylatra). This is one of the more widespread Boobys, inhabiting tropical waters pretty much the world over. Their hilarious name aside, their most impressive featureContinue reading “Bird 212 – Masked Booby”
Bird 211 – Takahe
As I’m sure many of you know, voting for The Guardian’s Australian Bird of the Year will soon be underway (still time to nominate a bird for the short list). Now, I’m not here to tell you which bird to vote for, you don’t need me for that. I want you to vote for the bird that’sContinue reading “Bird 211 – Takahe”
Bird 210 – Taiwan Blue Magpie
Today I’m going to introduce you to a Magpie, but it isn’t the Magpie you have in mind. This is the Taiwan Blue Magpie (Urocissa caerulea). Now, these Magpies aren’t related to the Australian Magpie. The humble Australian Magpie is actually a misnamed bird. They are so-call because they reminded early European settlers of theirContinue reading “Bird 210 – Taiwan Blue Magpie”
Bird 209 – Superb Bird-of-Paradise
So as the perpetual lock down rolls on, let me offer you one of the most incredible birds on earth. But before I tell you its name, first take a look at this: What in the blue blazes is that? Is it even bird, or is it an alien that hasn’t quiet worked out howContinue reading “Bird 209 – Superb Bird-of-Paradise”
Bird 208 – Philippine Dwarf Kingfisher
Alright guys, if you want something to brighten your day, look no further than the Philippine Dwarf Kingfisher (Ceyx melanurus). This is the itsy-est, bitsy-est Kingfisher that ever did live. And you just don’t get colours like that. I mean, for God’s sake, it’s a lilac bird! And look at its little head, it hasContinue reading “Bird 208 – Philippine Dwarf Kingfisher”
Bird of the Week 