This article will give you all there is know about how to attract the most beautiful feathered friends in North America into your own garden, which is a difficult feat as they usually stay hidden most of the time.
Painted Bunting (Photo credit: Dan Pancamo)
Getting to Know Your Bird.The Painted Bunting (Passerina ciris) is a species of bird belonging to the Cardinal (Cardinalidae) family. It is so named because of its beautiful and brightly colored hues of dark blue head, green back, as well as red rump and underparts.
Boons of Attracting Birds.Because of their seemingly painted colors, they were once highly captured and caged such that they are shy and secretive. Even when they sing they remain in hiding and can be very difficult to spot because of their shy nature as well as their ability to camouflage the surroundings especially the females and juveniles. Being able to attract them into your yard and garden gives you the chance of witnessing these feathered beauties for yourself.
Laws of Attraction for the Painted Bunting.
To get the chance of having the Painted Bunting graze your garden or yard, you can use the following tips as a guide:
1) Make your environment welcome the birds. Landscape your gardens in such a way that will be suitable as a mating and nesting ground for the Painted Bunting and other bird species. Place several plant species of trees and bushes, which will give the birds a feel of their natural habitat of woodland and brushy, insuburban, and garden areas. You can ask from your local field guide for plants which are endemic in your area. It would also do you some good to research on specific plants which the Painted Bunting prefer and naturally thrive in. It is also important to keep any cause of disturbance away. For instance, if you have kids, make sure to situate their playground as far possible from your landscaped area. In addition, have nesting areas for the birds distanced as far from the trees and bushes to prevent attack from predators. Nesting areas need also to contain adequate ventilation and, again, a mechanism to protect from predators.
2) Provide for their needs. Just like any animal, offering the Painted Bunting with unlimited supply of food and water, most especially, will keep them within the confines of your yard. Because the birds are largely seed eaters, you can have a variety of seeds and add syrup and suet to the mix. To efficiently contain the food items, you can get any of the bird feeders which afford them with much privacy as possible when eating. You also need to provide a water source, and bird baths can help you do this. For both food and water, it is integral to keep them fresh to ensure consumption of the birds, thus, remaining in your area.
If you successfully achieve the feat of attracting the Painted Bunting in your garden and make them stay a long time to witness their mating and nesting habits, you can expect them to return in the succeeding months and years as they have found a niche in your garden or yard.
Peach-faced Lovebird in Namibia, Africa. Agapornis roseicollis (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
The Peach-faced Lovebird also called the Rosy-faced Lovebird. It's local to dry regions of Africa. Peach-faced Lovebird populations have reduced in some areas by trapping for the pet trade. One of the most well-liked, loving, and freely available species of Lovebird. They are definitely a loud and steady chirper.
Peach-faced Lovebird color can widely alter among populations but the hens are darker and greener, but the cocks are smaller and brighter in color. They're known to shred objects into strips and put it on their backs and fly back home to build their nest.
Peach-faced Lovebirds has a varied, loud and screeching call. Their face and throat are pinkish, darkest on the forehead and above the eye. The bill is greenish-yellow, and their eyes are brown and the legs and feet are gray. Younger Lovebirds have a paler color. They like to prosper in dry areas, but are reliant on the presence of water sources and gathers around pools to drink.
These Peach-faced Lovebirds often become a pest in rural areas, eating the crops. When there's a lot of food, they gather in flocks containing lots of birds. Their diet consists basically of seeds and berries. Finding the proper pair of these birds are tough, for their sex is difficult to establish. Peach-faced Lovebird has the widest range of color mutations of all of the Lovebirds species. There are 4 varieties in aviculture: the Wild-type, Lutino, Pied Wild Green, Orange faced, Cinnamon, Creamino, and AquaTurquoise. As well as many of those mutations can be mixed to provide even more colors called the mixed mutations.
Being an active bird, this Peach-faced Lovebird when kept indoors or housed in a cage, should be supplied with enough room and a clean environment. The larger the cage, the better. It also will be great to put perches in their cage, for them to exercise and prevent health issues like arthritis.
Toys are a must when keeping a Lovebird, it'll preclude isolation and boredom, just avoid little parts that they may swallow. Two Lovebirds may not engage with a human owner as much as if they were by themselves. They could also not get along with another lovebird, and you may need to put them in a separate cage.
The perils and toxins of these Peach-faced Lovebirds are the blue-green algae, avocados, chocolate, alcohol, dog and cat spit, changeable organic compounds, household cleaners, and detergents.
If trained correctly, Peach-faced Lovebirds happily perch on a human's shoulder. They're awfully playful and like to have all of the attention centered on them. Peach-faced Lovebirds need a spread of foods, including veggies, seeds, and fruits, and other human foods that are tasty and healthy.
They can be kept singly, but that needs a large amount of attention. Often they're kept as a pair to satisfy their need of an unswerving companion, mutual preening, and socialization. In a few cases, tiny small squeaky words have been heard coming from a Peach-faced Lovebird. But this isn't standard, and an individual should not expect a speech from their own Peach-faced Lovebird.
Cuban Parrot (Amazona leucocephala) in Cuba (2007). Pet parrots.
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Most folks have the misgiven understanding that adopting a parrot means trouble. The general consensus is that if a parrot is up for adoption in the first place, it must be problematic. Naturally, like in every species of animals (including us humans), there are problematic parrots. However, it would be immensely naive to think that this is the primary reason people abandon parrots.
FACT #1 - Parrots have a very long life span.
In fact, some would argue that they're on the verge of discovering the secret to immortality. The small ones live for up to 20-30 years. Larger ones can go on to a ripe old age of 60-90 years. Just imagine: If the scheming investment bankers of Merril Lynch knew this, they'd probably convince the birds to buy a dozen retirement homes.
My point is because of their lifespan, they tend to outlive their owners. As a result, many parrots at the rescue centers are only there because their previous owners are no longer in this world. Not because they're particularly ferocious.
FACT #2 - It's not the parrots fault.
I think it's safe to say that humans are the primary cause for most of the bird's problems. Here's why. Mr. New Fish suddenly decides he likes parrots. He thinks that they're gorgeous because of their amazing blend of colors. Also, he reckons that within a few days, he'll have his parrot on his shoulder, squawking instructions to imaginary pirates in his living room.
So he buys one, purely on impulse. He does little to no research beforehand, and just dives in head first. So what happens? The parrot takes one look at Mr. New Fish and realizes that he's nothing but a nutcase. The problem is, the parrot can't actually tell Mr. New Fish this, because well... most parrots don't speak English all that well now do they? Although that's debatable, considering the insults certain parrots have hurled in my general direction.
The parrot makes a mess, because it doesn't know better. The parrot sometimes shows signs of aggression because Mr. New Fish thinks that it's OK to poke it all over. What's next? Mr. New Fish, thinking his parrot is the one with the issues, ignores it. He gives it no attention, no affection and puts no effort in caring for it. Next thing you know, the parrot, along with the cage, is chucked in the deepest, darkest corner of the garage.
So yes, the parrot will naturally go rather bonkers after this ordeal. But is it really at fault? Eventually, the parrot is rescued by a center.
FACT #3 - Living arrangements change
When people get married, have babies, or just have a new set of priorities in life, often times companion animals end up forced into the backseat. This has been the case with numerous parrots. Hence, they end up getting sent to a rescue center.
FACT #4 - Some people are profit motivated.
Pet stores and breeders have realized that parrots are flat out popular. So what do many of them do? They breed them like there's no tomorrow. They sell them without matching up the right people to their bird. The end result? Too many parrots for potential owners to handle, especially in certain countries like the United States. So the parrots get treated like commodities, and a large number of these parrots end up in shelters.
A disturbingly sad ordeal isn't it? I know.
Now, don't get me wrong. There are many terrific breeders and even pet stores that I can freely recommend with a good conscience. But just like everything, there's plenty of not-so-great groups as well.
Naturally, the best way to minimize this problem is to educate potential owners. All they really have to do is read extensively on parrot care, and do their part to spread the word (in fact, you might want to let people you know read this article). However, today I'm going to focus on what you can do to help right now. If you are looking into buying a parrot, you should seriously consider taking part in the parrot rehoming process.
Here's a fact for you. Because of the explosive parrot breeding, rescue centers are flooded. A large number are filled to the brim, and even more are overflowing. Unfortunately, this results in a very nasty irony. Rescue centers can no longer give the parrots the necessary attention and care. They just can't. They are cash strapped organizations that are stretching their resources to the breaking point. As such, some rescue homes are no longer able to serve their purpose. Naturally, they're becoming just another vortex for these unlucky birds.
If you're really interested in owning a parrot, let me take this opportunity of sharing a few perks of adopting one.
REASON #1
Buying a large parrot (African Greys, Amazons, Cockatoos) from a pet store in the United States can cost anywhere between $3000 and $5000. Macaws are known to cost even more than this. It's a lot of hard earned cash isn't it? Guess what? Adopting a large parrot, like a Grey, would probably amount to no more than a few hundred dollars.
REASON #2
The common misunderstanding is that parrots will only bond with you if you're the one who has been taking care of it since its adolescence. This is flat out wrong. In the wild (and your parrot is no different from a wild one), parrots may bond with several different partners in their lifetime, well into their maturity. Most parrots that are up for adoption are already somewhat mature. And if you take up a mature bird that came from a relatively good family, the main issue you're going to have is helping the parrot get used to you. Because when a parrot gets attached to someone, they mean it.
REASON #3
Naturally, adopting a bird would be a huge help to the rescue organizations. They are in desperate need of help from people like you. And if you're able to provide a good home for a parrot, they'll be eternally thankful.
REASON #4
Rescue centers are fundamentally sanctuaries. Many are equipped with the means to rehabilitate birds. And on top of this, they're not profit motivated. You're less likely to be scammed by a rescue home as opposed to a pet store.
Naturally, the story has a flipside as well.
1) Some parrots are bound to have been overly neglected or even abused. As such, they may already be undergoing a great deal of mental trauma. And it can be quite scary. These parrots have an extra aggressive nature. They usually don't hesitate to bite the hand that feeds. Some even go on self-mutilating rampages. And if you're lucky, you'll see one that does nothing but scream it's lungs out. Don't forget though: Adoption is fantastic, but it's not an obligation. You don't have to adopt a bird that is in an extreme condition already. Go for one that would be easier to work with.
However, if you have some parrot keeping experience under your belt, taking on a parrot with existing behavior problems and guiding him to become a friendly, social bird is immensely rewarding to both you and your bird. These birds were often the most abused and deserve a life where they are cared for and thrive.
2) Parrots are sociable animals. That said don't be surprised if they come with their own package of trust issues. You may get a little flustered if the parrot you adopt simply refuses to acknowledge your existence. However, don't forget: Just like people, parrots value trust a lot. They need you to give them a reason to trust you. But once you do, the bond may as well be forged by a goldsmith.
When all is said and done, parrots are truly remarkable creatures. They're very intelligent and you can easily learn a lot about yourself around them. If you're keen on getting one for yourself, seriously consider adopting one. However, just with every important purchase, remember to do your share of research. This way, you will save both yourself, and your parrot a wealth of trouble.
Bird netting on top of grapevines outside Kumeu, near Auckland, New Zealand. Most of the sides have been lifted up for harvesting. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Birds are one of the top problems of the agricultural production in the country. Not only do birds interrupt crops, they can also ruin your garden, the school’s playground, the parking lot in your work, and many more locations where birds exist.
There are many products that could help you with your problem. There are a number of pesticides and other machinery that could be used to prevent pest birds. But there are also many good birds that do not cause damage, and may even help to pollinate your crops and garden or control smaller pests such as bugs. What, therefore, is the safest way to control the population of problem birds without interfering with the populations of the good birds? Bird netting is your answer.
Bird netting has many advantages, such as -
1. Health Issues
There have been studies that birds could give illnesses when droppings get in contact with people’s skin. Pigeons, for example, carry infectious diseases. These pigeons could give people tuberculosis, flu, paratyphoid, Lyme-disease, Toxoplasmosis, and Encephalitis. By making sure that these pigeons do not spread their diseases, bird netting could put an end to your health worrying.
2. Protecting Plantation
Most birds tend to peck on your fruits, vegetables, and plants because they know that these are food. Do not underestimate the birds. Protect your plantation with bird netting, so your plants are fenced safely away from their prying beaks.
3. Save The Birds
The best advantage bird netting has is it is environmentally friendly. By making use of bird netting to protect your property, you are not killing the birds. You are simply covering up the location with a net for the birds to stay away. Unlike other methods of pest control, bird netting does not harm the birds. Pesticides and aroma repellants terminate the birds permanently. Plus, there are laws regarding the harming of birds like robins and blackbirds. Using bird netting, you are abiding the law!
4. Bird netting is versatile
- Large spaces such as buildings parks, and plantations
- Small spaces like backyard or a rose garden
- Agricultural farms and plants
- Impressive variety of bird netting products
- A single bird net can be used for as long as ten years
- Variety of colors
- Variety of materials available (usually polyethylene strings or steel, to withstand extreme weather conditions)
- Prices of bird netting range from $150 to $8000 dollars
Bird netting is the smartest and most affordable way to repel birds in your area. One final note - be aware that an absence of birds may cause your garden to be a safe haven for bugs and other smaller pests that would otherwise have been controlled had the birds have access to the area. Bird netting does not 100% guarantee the livelihood of your protected area.
Indigenous to the lush South American tropical rain forests, the Toucan is recognized throughout the Americas, especially in the United States. Known for their unusual but unforgettably unique multi-colored beaks, the function still has scientists puzzled. Scientists and researchers have studied the different functions, but have not been successful in determining it purpose, although they have determined it is not used as a weapon nor is it used to gather food.
Toucans primarily feed on fruit while snacking on an occasional lizard or insect. The bodies are compact as the wings are too. Scientists have determined that the wings were built to fly shorter distances than other birds in the rainforest.
Toucans are often paired off or travel in small groups. Determining the sex of a toucan has been difficult as the male and female bodies are practically identical. Although some scientists believe the female beak is slightly larger and contains a square-like design.
Toucans have become one of the most popular birds in American popular culture. Many companies use it as a marketing tool as they have friendly dispositions, are aesthetically pleasing and embody a unique blend of characteristics. Moreover, they are starting to emerge as one of the most unique choices for bird pets. Additionally, they are often featured in various magazines, newspapers, advertisements, as well as many product lines such as in the Wild Jungle Chick greeting card line.
Vibrant colors, acumen, and the amusing traits these birds contain have made toucans one the most admired birds in both the rainforest and American pop culture.
Karen Justice, President of Wild Jungle Chick, founder of Tigre Lis Enterprises. Karen’s multi-talents in writing, painting, her zest for living, her lifetime passion for animals and her ability to see through failure has brought her continued success. Furthermore, her light-hearted nature, down to earth disposition, and even-keeled temperament has helped her remain grounded. Karen believes we are in this life together. What we do in some way affects others. She believes smiles are contagious and one of the nicest things we can do daily is to pass one on.
The Chestnut-mandibled Toucan or Swainson’s Toucan (Ramphastos swainsonii) at Antwerp Zoo.
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Bird Name:
Swainson's Toucan
Latin Name:
Ramphastos swainsonii
Status:
Least Concern
Scientific Classification:
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Aves
Order: Piciformes
Family: Ramphastidae
Genus: Ramphastos
Species: R. swainsonii
General Information:
The Swainson's Toucan, named after English ornithologist William Swainson, is a large near-passerine bird native to Central America and northern South America. It is the second largest of the 37 species of toucan, only slightly smaller than the Toco Toucan. It prefers to be solitary or in smaller groups as opposed to large flocks.
Physical Description:
The male is around 22 inches in length and weighs about 750 g. The female is slightly smaller at about 20.5 inches and 580 g, but otherwise alike in appearance to the male. The Swainson's Toucan's distinctive, brightly marked bill can grow up to 8 inches long. It is mostly black in appearance but has a bright yellow face and upper breast, with narrow white and broader red bands forming a border above its lower breast. Juveniles are of a sootier black color with duller plumage, especially with regard to the red border and yellow bib of its breast.
Diet:
The Swainson's Toucan feeds on fruits, which it plucks from branches with its long beak. It will also eat insects and lizards for protein, especially during the nesting period
Habitat:
These toucans occur in forests ranging from Honduras and Costa Rica down through northern Colombia. They are resident breeders in moist lowland forests, often nesting in tree cavities or old woodpecker's nests.
Reproduction:
Female Swainson's Toucans lays 2 - 4 eggs per clutch and will incubate them for a period of 14 - 15 days. After hatching, the young toucans are fed by both parents and fledge the nest after about 6 weeks.
The racing Homer is a descendant of the Wild Rock Pigeon which once prominently populated the continents of Europe and Asia. Although the history of the racing pigeon is fragmented the history of pigeons as message carriers go back over 4,000 years.
One of the earliest recorded pieces of history on the bird and sport can be traced back to 1350 B.C. which shows an Egyptian Bas-relief releasing pigeons from their cages. By the middle of the twelfth century A.D., a pigeon post with postmasters and post offices were successfully being maintained by the Caliph of Baghdad. During the historic Olympics of the Golden Age of Greece, a well-developed system of pigeon communication was being used to rush news of the events to surrounding cities. Since pigeons were fast and able to cover large distances through all sorts of weather, leading newspapers of many countries used them to carry important news and stock exchange quotations.
Although pigeons were being used quite successfully to deliver messages, the ancients knew very little about breeding, but they were thoughtful enough to keep breeding the young of the pigeons whose homing instinct were more prominent than others. As progress in breeding developed, breeders began to look more closely at carriage form, feathers, eye care etc as well as speed, endurance, and vitality when breeding their stock. From this bird, the Antwerp and Liege types were developed in Belgium which are the ancestors of most of the present day homing pigeons.
Through the advances in breeding, pigeons began to be able to fly further and faster and by the eighteenth-century pigeon racing began to grow in popularity and was extended into Belgium. In 1818 the first classic concourse in Belgium was held in Toulouse, France with thousands of birds competing. This was the predecessor of modern-day concourses in which thousands of the best birds in several states and clubs compete in the U.S. Since the object of these concourses was to see whose pigeon returned home first, the name was shifted from the "carrier" pigeon to the "Homer".
What are pets? As explained by the Oxford dictionary "an animal, a bird etc that you have at home for pleasure, rather than one that is kept for work or food". From the above definition, it will right to say: any animal that eats sleep and breeds inside your home can be referred to as a pet. These animals could be dogs, cats, monkeys, parrots, rodents like hamsters, rabbits, guinea pigs etc; in extreme cases snakes, eagles, raccoons, swallows, crocodiles etc. however, I am here to discuss just one of these pets- PIGEONS
As you all know, pigeons belong to the avian family (birds). They can be referred to as social beings. But one stunning thing about these creatures is their humility and the general slogan for which they are noted for "live and let live" a term that sounds ironical to other community of animals, to me this is the quality that makes them the most unique creatures to ever walk the surface of the earth and fly over the skies, and as they flap their wings in humility and in unison spread peace, prosperity and love all over the length and breadth of their habitation.
Now, I got hooked on pigeons a couple of years back, 1996 to be precise, I was still in my early teens at that time, looking back now I find this experience very nostalgic each time I reminisce. Like I said earlier, I got to know about these loveable avian creatures through a friend through many years my senior, however, we were brought together as friends as a result of the common thing we shared: being the passion for pigeons. I visited his place regularly just to study the life pattern of these unique birds and each time I look at them, they got more endeared and fascinating they become to me and my longing to have my own community of pigeons increased, until I satisfied this desire by acquiring two sets of pigeons; two males and two females respectively from whom I built a community of pigeons so large, that I became the envy of many.
On the contrary, I am not writing this article to narrate my personal experiences as a former owner of these pets, rather to present to you a comprehensive documentary on how these animals live, eat, breed and interact with themselves as well as their owners, however, I will narrate most of my personal experiences with these birds. The community is made up of males and females, each male pigeon has a wife, funny it sounds but it is true, the get married just like we humans do, more so infidelity of either of the partners is intolerable. The widely held belief among them is one man, one wife, but most males stray occasionally and their target, young unattached females, another common feature in human societies, the difference being that divorce is the last thing to be considered in this very complex yet organized society; contrary to this assertion, in all my years of rearing these birds as pets I recorded a typical case of divorce. Please read on: a certain pigeon female to be precise was being ostracized for mistakenly falling into hot oil my mum left outside her kitchen, fortunately for the unfortunate pigeon, my senior sister saved it before it was fully consumed by the hot oil.
But with this development, this pigeon became a recluse of some sort as it was avoided and treated with disdain by other pigeons in the community. Now a certain male pigeon finding this situation rather appalling decided to do the unthinkable by interacting with the dejected pigeon a relationship that ended in both pigeons hooking up. Sadly, the female eloped with another male is thought to be finer which led to my banishing this heartless pigeon a decision my family supported, as everybody in my house from my father to my mum loved and adored these birds. So I banished the said pigeon for leaving not only the husband but also the kids it bore to be catered for by the male alone, a responsibility this male pigeon carried out effectively to the latter.
Now, pigeons are a very interesting lot to study, their complexity of character and simplicity is one quality hard to find in any other society of animals from avian to reptiles, from amphibians to Aquarian creatures and even mammals and apes, a community that after a male and a female pigeon hooks up, they start making plans for having a family. They commence mating like every other animal in their care, but one unique thing about how they mate is prolonged foreplay, incredible?! Well, pigeons are similar to humans in many aspects and this is one of them. They kiss with the male putting its head in between its wings occasionally, after this prolonged foreplay the female bends down for the normal copulation which takes place with the two birds joining their organs found at the base of their tails.
Gradually, the female's eggs are developed and ready to be laid, that is when the male starts getting the pen ready for the female to roost. The male starts picking up sticks, straw, feathers to make the place cozy for its wife. During this period it chaperons the wife from place to place and pecks it roughly at times on the neck signaling other males of the danger posed if they ever disturb the wife who is ready for roosting. The eggs after being laid, two maximum, and the two pigeons now take turns to sit on the eggs. Funny enough, they make a roaster for sitting on the eggs. The female sits on the eggs from night till morning, at about 12pm of the next day or so, it leaves for the male to take over from that time to maybe 6pm after which the female comes back and takes charge till the morning of the next day; while the male keeps watch at the entrance of the pen to ward off other impending males that might disturb the female while she sits on the eggs: as rearing a family is a collective responsibility between the male and female pigeons respectively.
Roosting might take an average of seventeen days depending on the prevailing conditions, immediately the eggs hatch into young pigeons; another roaster is drawn between the two parents. This time for feeding their young, with the male playing a dominant role, a role he plays till the female is ready to lay another set of eggs. Now while the female gets prepared for laying another set of eggs, the males continue to feed their young till they get ready for their first flight. Their feeding technique, another delight to watch, the parents after taking insufficient food and water, the two substances dissolve and serves as food to the young who get their nutrition by putting their tender beaks into the beaks of their parents who in turn send the food by vomiting it out into the bodies of these young ones.
Amazingly in all my life, I have never seen any animal be it mammal, reptile, or even birds that their young ones develop as rapid as young pigeons. I have seen young chickens, goats, cows etc tended by their mothers develop, but for pigeons, as soon as they are brought into the world, within a short period of time say two weeks it is ready to join other matured birds in the community for its first flight
Generally, pigeons live a life of equity. Every pigeon regardless of age or color is respected by the other. They do everything in common: from eating, taking their bath, flying and sleeping. Note here that the issue of borders and territory are respected. Every male point and mark out areas and spaces for domination. The other pigeons respect these boundaries and borders. In all my life I have never seen any community be it human, plant or animal as organized as this community. If we humans can take a clue from these creatures, the world will be a better place to live in; devoid of crime, corruption, and domination. As witnessed by the way in which big and strong nations bully the weak ones with many human societies going into extinction, but if we mimic these wonderful birds, the world would be a wonderful sphere where every race, tribe, and the region will live in equity, justice, peace, and prosperity. The world of pigeons!
Chinemere Onuekwusi is a young Nigerian with a drive to set new heights and sights for his generation; you can read more about him at his blog http://www.chinemeremz.blogspot.com
Cavendish Beach, Prince Edward Island - Photo: Wikimedia
The Prince Edward Island holds the same name as the Canadian province where it is located. The national park is a haven for many bird species and a delight for bird watching enthusiasts.
Such natural beauty this place has that birds and people flock around to enjoy what the site has in store for its visitor. The rolling hills, untouched forests, ocean coves and its red soil is what makes this place stand out for its beauty. You could only wonder in amazement that such place exists.
Prince Edward Island, the Province
Its government is now trying to enact laws to be able to preserve the place and prevent further damage from happening in the area which was brought about by the lack of zoning and planning for land use within the province that has resulted to some unpleasant aesthetic development in recent times.
Did you know that the author of the classic novel entitled "Anne of Green Gables," Lucy Maud Montgomery, got her inspiration for the settings and backgrounds of the story from the Prince Edward Island? It was done during the Victorian era. What was envisioned in the book can still be felt now? This island seems to be waiting for artists to draw their inspiration from its captivating beauty. Not only that, the place is now a favorite for tourists for relaxation activities like going to the beaches, golfing, eco-tourism experience, while enjoying all the sights and seeing on the cultural events within its local communities.
The slow-paced kind of life in the place rural areas is really what draws in more tourists as they can enjoy their vacation and truly relax in the process. This factor gives the impression of something like an old world flavor for most of the tourists that frequent it.
Most communities in the rural areas of the Prince Edward Island get their living through the small-scale type of agriculture. The reason for this is that the size of the farm areas in the vicinity is indeed small especially if you compare it to the other areas in Canada. Although today, industrial farming is slowly being adopted in the area as the old farms become consolidated and likewise modernized.
The Coast of Prince Edward Island
This is the frequent stop of bird watchers in the area. The island's coastline has long beaches, dunes, and cliffs made out of sandstone. Rolling hills can be found along its landscape. And it has a lot of bays and also harbors.
The Islanders take their responsibility as guardians of the precious nature surrounding them. They only give back for whatever the place has also bestowed them through agriculture, abundant fisheries and, of course, tourism.
There are said to be about 333 kinds of birds that can be found in the area. There is really something for everyone to enjoy here. The bird watchers will have a feast with what's in store for them at this paradise.
Bird watching is only one of the many things that a tourist can enjoy at the Prince Edward Island. It is really a must-see place to experience such oneness with nature. Don't forget your binoculars and a heart set out for nature once you've had the chance to check it out.
Finch bird feeders are a remarkable way of luring finches to your garden. These feeders can get the seed-eating birds right onto your porch if you want. You can choose from a wide array of finch bird feeders. Most bird feeders are specially designed to meet the requirements of a specific type of bird. Finches will definitely benefit from this type of bird feeder.
Finches belong to the family of Fringillidae, under the Phylum Chordata. These birds are easily distinguishable with their medium-built bodies and physically powerful, stumpy beaks. Their manner in flying is somewhat bouncy in nature, thereby, creating a gleeful appearance in the environment. Most finches are good singers as well.
With that in mind, finches are said to be great attractions in one’s backyard. Most finches would love to flock together in various beautifully crafted finch bird feeders. The indistinguishable color (bright red) of the House Finch’s chest and their very genial manners are the ultimate factors that make them feeder darlings. Goldfinches can also enhance your feeding station as they flock hungrily in groups of 30 or more.
Finches are generally seed lovers. They feed on almost any type of seeds but would love to devour on the seeds of trees, such as pine, alder, maple, birch, sweet gum, and spruce. The Nyjer seed is an all-time favorite of feeding finches during the winter season.
Finch bird feeders can accommodate all of these seed types. They come in different styles and types consisting of gazebo feeders, seed finch feeders, and wooden finch feeders.
In general, bird feeders are specially crafted devices set in the backyard or porch to provide bird food to various types of birds. Finch bird feeders are special bird feeders designed to provide seeds to finches since this type of bird are generally seed-eating birds.
Choosing the right type of bird feeder is the number factor in luring birds to flock in the area. The position of the bird feeder, as well as the type of food, will also affect the chances of attracting certain types of birds.
For instance, thistle seed finch feeder will generally attract finches that prefer thistle seeds. Thistle seed finch bird feeder features a drawn-out tube that can hold as much as one quart of thistle seeds. It has a see-through feature, which enables the owner to observe seed level anytime.
Finch bird feeders can also lure other types of birds. Hence, you should not be startled if ever you get to see different types of birds flocked up to your finch bird feeding station. Most finch bird feeders are also best for cardinal birds, redpolls, siskins, and grosbeaks.
To attract beautiful finches in your area, it is important to keep these things in mind:
1. The right position
Setting up a bird feeding station may not be so complicated. However, it is still important to consider some factors to ensure finch-feeding success.
One of the most important factors to consider is the proper positioning of the finch bird feeder. Setting up a finch bird feeding station in your backyard is the ideal place since this is very conducive to most finches. However, it is also recommended that you place your finch bird feeder near your deck or window. In this way, you can easily observe and enjoy watching the finches as they gleefully enjoy their sumptuous meal.
If placing finch bird feeders near the window is not possible, it is best to set the finch bird feeder in an area that is observable from indoors. It is also best to place finch bird feeders near the areas where the finches can easily fly to safety if any danger should take place.
2. Special area for finches
Competition is always at hand whenever there is no specific place for finch bird feeding station. Larger birds may flock the area, thereby, blocking the finches from getting their food. If you have a separate bird feeder for larger birds and a specially made feeder station for the finches, both parties will enjoy their meals as well as you will enjoy their company within your garden.
So the next time you think about setting up finch bird feeder, try to consider these factors to enjoy bird watching. It is definitely one great experience you will never forget.
Chickens being transported in trucks, presumably for slaughter. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
The principal aim of poultry growers is for their chickens along with other fowls to remain healthy so these may be offered at the optimum price and make utmost revenues. One of the complications you may well experience close to poultry increasing includes the shortage of poultry vitamins and minerals. Poultry demands practically all types of nutritional vitamins other than vitamin C. Some dissolve in fat whilst other individuals in liquid.
Worth of Dietary supplements
Poultry farming has grown to be demanding because of the fees of feeds, raw elements, as well as other supplies, continue on to go up. Even with these developments, it's not necessarily highly recommended to reduce vitamin nutritional supplements from the midst of threats coming from illnesses plaguing your chickens. Dietary supplements are great for hens and bolster the immune devices of poultry are stalked by ailments or have just absent by means of vaccination. Moreover, micronutrients are essential for energy synthesis and boost the electricity of weak birds.
Vitamins B, D3 and E will help chicks and hens improve their resistance to ailments and boost appetite especially for the duration of stressful situations. Enough offer of poultry minerals and vitamins is crucial to poultry nourishment. Other nutritional vitamins obligatory for max poultry wellbeing consist of excess fat soluble nutritional vitamins similar to a, D, E and K. On the other hand, natural vitamins that dissolve in drinking water are vitamin B. The ingestion of such nutrients in ample quantities can increase the well being of the poultry.
Suggested Vitamins and Minerals
Legit suppliers will certainly endorse excellent items to suit your needs to include the Avian Tremendous Pack which boasts of nutritional vitamins A, D3, E, B12, Ascorbic Acid, Riboflavin, Niacin, Biotin and similarly beneficial. This has actually been described as one of several very best natural vitamins currently being marketed out there. You can also try out the pure cod liver oil which benefits up to the fowls' urge for food and aids put together birds for breeding. The GQF Natural vitamins, In addition, include vitamins and minerals, natural and organic acids in addition to live and natural- micro-organisms to complement acid manufacturing that happens to be normally lacking between chicks. These poultry minerals and vitamins are relevant when birds are fatigued or soon after applying wormers and antibiotics.
Diet for Chicks
The Gro-Gel furthermore B ensures speedy nourishment for chicks which have just been hatched. On the other hand, the Poultry Nutri-Drench also enhances the immune technique and beefs up vitamin lack. It enhances antibiotic response and alleviates heat and pressure caused by shipping. A single gallon of Recovery translates to your supplemental supply of iron, cobalt, and zinc. A lot of poultry raisers have previously offered their approval of this particular dietary supplement.
This will help poultry recuperate from pressure due to transport, intense climatic conditions, vaccination, and diarrhea. Just combine just one teaspoon of this health supplement in 4-gallon water. Ultimately, the Pink Mobile liquid vitamin and iron mineral nutritional supplement promotes excellent feathering and will get your hen in peak problem for breeding and display. With each other with all the Vionate Powder feeds, claimed poultry minerals and vitamins may help avoid crooked toes along with other leg difficulties. The stabilizer consists of 21 essential minerals and vitamins needed for protecting nutritious breeders and enhancing the development of chicks.
By James P Hill PoultrySupplies.org provides poultry medications like vitamins, dewormers, antibiotics, and vaccines and more. They have also a wide selection of incubators and egg hatchers for poultries and chickens, click here for more information. Article Source: EzineArticles
Part of parrots world in KL bird park (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Unfortunately, accidents can - and DO happen, so it's always a good idea to be prepared! While accidents usually produce obvious injuries, illnesses are often kept well hidden by birds. In nature, if you're sick you pose a threat in making your whole flock vulnerable to predators, so parrots have become adept at masking signs of illness. This is one reason that it's vital to have a "well-bird" check-up annually. Needless to say, once a bird is showing obvious signs of illness, he's often very sick and needs immediate vet attention. First Aid is intended to help you get by until you can see the vet, or in treating minor injuries.
It's helpful to have a "hospital cage" for emergencies - a smaller, easily portable cage where you can isolate a sick or injured bird and easily move him to a warm, quiet, area of your home. It's advisable to have a quarantine area as well - for new birds coming into the home, as well as sick birds recovering from an infection. This area should be well separated from the rest of your birds to prevent air-borne transmission of germs, as well as those spread by direct contact.
Some of the signs of possible illness include: more time on cage floor, talking and playing less, fluffed feathers, lack of appetite, drinking more water, personality changes (such as becoming bitey or not wanting to come out of the cage), tail bobbing, puffy eyes, sleeping on both feet with head tucked, droopy wings, sneezing or coughing, "clicking" in chest, vomiting, diarrhea, soiled vent, etc. I won't go into specific diseases here, but hopefully, you get a general idea - if things are "different," get to the vet! Other problems include broken blood feathers or egg binding.
It's a good idea to put together a first aid kit - Include:
· Eye and skin wash
· Styptic powder
· Corn starch
· Antiseptic wipes
· Cotton Swabs and balls
· Eye dropper
· Assorted bandages - gauze, adhesive, vet wrap
· Scissors
· Latex Gloves
· Forceps or hemostats
· Betadine or iodine swabs
· Adhesive tape
· Penlight
· Heating pad and/or lamp
· Hydrogen peroxide
· Pedialyte (Electrolyte solution for babies)
· Hand feeding formula and syringes
· Phone number for vets and poison control
Generally, with any illness or injury, remove the bird to a hospital cage and put him in a warm, quiet, dimly lit room (bathrooms can work). Provide fresh water (and Pedialyte if needed). Feed favorite foods (healthier things you know he'll eat) plus warm foods like cooked rice or oatmeal. In addition, spray millet is often enjoyed by smaller birds. If he's not eating well on his own, offer some warm food with your fingers or a spoon. If need be, you may have to mix up hand feeding formula and give by cup or syringe. If you've kept your bird in the habit of eating from a spoon or cup, this will be easier. DO NOT use the counter remedies from pet stores. It's too much of a guessing game. I know a Pionus who became psychotic after being given an OTC bird "remedy" and would not stop thrashing around her cage. A little chamomile tea can help the bird relax and ginger tea is good for digestive upsets. If you're familiar with herbal remedies, you can safely use those without causing harm to your bird. NEVER give antibiotics without knowing your bird actually has a BACTERIAL infection (and which bacteria!)
Broken blood feathers (or those accidentally clipped) can be hard to stop bleeding. Do not use styptic powder on the skin or soft tissue - only on bleeding nails. Otherwise, use corn starch as a coagulant. If the blood feather (immature feather with live blood supply) won't stop bleeding, it has to be pulled or the bird can bleed to death.
A note on egg binding: If a hen is on the cage bottom, fluffed up and straining, she may be "egg bound". Put her in a warm, humid place (like the bathroom). You can rub some vegetable oil around her vent. Egg bound hens can die fairly quickly, though, and if the egg does not pass within several hours, she needs to get to the vet immediately (a good diet with extra calcium will help prevent this.)
So get in the habit of inspecting your birds on a daily basis, and being alert for signs of distress. Read up on diseases and gain a basic knowledge of illness in birds. "Bird proof" your home, avoid toxic fumes and unsafe toys. Have a first aid kit and hospital cage available. No what's "normal" for your bird and act quickly if things don't seem right. Find a good AVIAN vet and see them annually. Be sure your house and your bird's cage and play areas are as safe as possible. Feed the best diet you can to ensure your birds' best possible health. Wouldn't it be nice if your first aid kit never gets used?!
By Marilu Anderson Marilu Anderson, Bird Nutrition and Behavior Consultant, (503) 771-BIRD. Article Source: EzineArticles
