If you're an avid birdwatcher or want to know more about birds, this fun bird guide is for you. Learn more about birds, including their visual capabilities that boggle the mind and their fascinating reasons for mimicking. Remember these fun facts the next time you go birdwatching!
Can Birds Swim?
Some bird species with webbed feet and shorter, paddle-like wings can swim in water, but not all birds have such swimming mechanisms. In the same way that most birds have bodily components that help them fly, birds that can swim have adaptations to help them glide in the water. These adaptations allow them to perform wing propulsion, foot propulsion and plunge diving. You might see some birds that do not have these special adaptations for swimming, splashing around in shallow water, or in a bird bath - this is not only fun, but an important function for keeping their feathers clean and in good condition.
How Do Birds Breathe?
Birds are mammals like us and breathe through their nostrils. The air they inhale passes through their trachea and into air sacs in their lungs. They then exhale air from their lungs back through the air passages and nostrils. A bird's breathing coordinates with its wing flaps, allowing it to breathe while flying.
Do Birds Sleep at Night?
Diurnal birds sleep at night. They start their slumber when the sun sets and wake up at sunrise. Passerines like bluebirds and chickadees sleep while perching, essentially meaning they sleep while standing up! Nocturnal birds sleep during the day to conserve energy and are active at night, allowing them to find prey more easily. These species include owls, nighthawks and nightjars.
What Does a Bird See?
Birds see in color and can view colors that are invisible to our eyes, and they can also see ultraviolet (UV) light. As humans, we cannot see UV light with the naked eye, and seeing such vivid colors would likely confuse or overwhelm our minds.
In addition to this extraordinary sight, the American woodcock and mallard duck have 360-degree vision. Additionally, many birds of prey have sharper vision over longer distances, with an eagle having 20/5 vision compared to our 20/20 vision.
Why Do Birds Mimic?
Some birds mimic to further their social interaction, while others do it to impress potential mates. Parrots are the most well-known bird mimics and do this due to an evolutionary trait. They use mimicry in the wild to communicate with each other about potential dangers and the location of food. Birds continue this form of communication when humans keep them as pets.
Why Do Birds Sing?
Birds sing primarily for mating, and males sing both to mark their territory or attack a mate. Bird calls are not as elaborate as their songs-- birds give out alarm calls and use calls for points of contact during flights. Babies also send out bigger calls for food.