Bird watching is one of the fastest growing interests in the world. If you're buying for a bird watcher, here's a primer on ideas for bird watching gifts.
Bird Watching Gifts
Bird watching may seem the simplest of tasks. In truth, there are lots of gadgets, which gives you an opportunity to find great bird watching gifts
1. Binocular Pack Straps - Where you find bird watchers, you'll find binoculars. Binoculars are the staple equipment item of all birders. The problem, however, is binoculars have a habit of flopping around your body when walking and putting a strain on your neck. Any bird watcher would love to find a solution and binocular pack straps are the answer. They look like backpack straps and snuggly hold binoculars to your body while you walk. Brunton is a great brand and you can expect to pay $30 or so.
2. The Birder's Handbook - The Birder's Handbook is a great companion piece for any birder. Over 600 species are covered and all can be found in North America. This book is an excellent list for bird watching enthusiasts to compare their life lists against. The list price of the book is $20.00 and you can find it at any only bookstore.
3. Bird Cams - If backyard bird watching is the primary bird watching activity of the person your giving gifts to, bird cams are great gifts. The bird cam sits inside of the bird house and lets birders see the birds in action. A fascinating view of a bird's life. Night-Owl and NovaBird make solid cams. You can expect to pay $80 to $300 for a solid cam.
4. Nomad Bird Watching Journals - A little self-promotion. Nomad Bird Watching Journals are great gifts for bird watching enthusiast. Whether they enjoy bird watching tours, backyard birding or bird watching vacations, these journals let bird watchers keep track of sightings, conditions, locations, people met and impressions of the birding experience. A great Christmas gift, you can see the journal by clicking the link in the byline of this article and expect to pay $25 for the journal with case.
Bird watching is sweeping the world. Now you know what to buy bird watching enthusiasts for the holidays.
About the author: Rick Chapo is with http://www.nomadjournals.com/bird_watchers.cfm - makers of writing journals. Bird watching journals make great Christmas gifts for him or her.
Monday, December 29, 2008
Saturday, December 27, 2008
A Five Minute Crash Course On Birdwatching For Bluebirds
Regardless of how you’ve discovered the pleasure for birdwatching and why you’re interested in searching for bluebirds in particular, ignoring birdwatching basics will get you and your binoculars nowhere. If you wish to be able to view bluebirds the soonest time possible, read this crash course on birdwatching for bluebirds. In five minutes, you’ll graduate from a kindergarten birdwatcher to birdwatcher extraordinaire!
SILENCE IS GOLDEN
Birds won’t flock to an area where the noise level is considerably high. If you wish to have the pleasure of being able to observe how birds act in their natural habitat, you need to learn how to keep noise and disruptions to a minimum. Just think of birds as grouchy old neighbors, and you’ll know what to do.
THE KEEN EYE SEES BEST
If you’re interested in birdwatching for bluebirds in particular, you need to make sure that you know everything there is to know about bluebirds. Increasing your knowledge of bluebirds will make it easier for you to quickly and easily identify the bluebird from the rest of the flock.
When studying bluebirds, your study should have the following focal points:
Silhouette – Familiarize yourself with the outline of bluebirds.
Plumage or Appearance – Secondly, try to memorize the unique physical characteristics of bluebirds. Know the shape of its head and beak and the color and pattern of its feathers.
Behavior – Research the behavioral patterns of bluebirds; learn what they do when hunting for food, protecting themselves from being prey, taking care of their young, and when trying to attract a mate.
Call – Learn how to distinguish the call of bluebirds from the chirping of other avians.
Habitat – Lastly, learn where bluebirds are most likely to live and if they migrate to other places during certain times of the year.
BIRDWATCHING TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT
To facilitate your viewing quest for bluebirds, make sure that you have the following handy:
Binoculars – 20/20 vision is unfortunately not powerful enough to be able to observe birds at a great distance. There will come a certain point in time that you need binoculars to help you attain your objective.
Log Book – Don’t rely on your brain and memory to recall every minute of your trip in perfect detail. Why take the risk of forgetting something pertinent when you don’t have to? All you need is an old-fashioned notebook and pencil or pen to keep accurate and comprehensive records of your observations.
Food and Water (Yours) – So you won’t miss out on anything
Food and Water (Theirs) – So you can lure bluebirds closer to you.
Don’t be blue if it takes you quite some time to search for those bluebirds!
SILENCE IS GOLDEN
Birds won’t flock to an area where the noise level is considerably high. If you wish to have the pleasure of being able to observe how birds act in their natural habitat, you need to learn how to keep noise and disruptions to a minimum. Just think of birds as grouchy old neighbors, and you’ll know what to do.
THE KEEN EYE SEES BEST
If you’re interested in birdwatching for bluebirds in particular, you need to make sure that you know everything there is to know about bluebirds. Increasing your knowledge of bluebirds will make it easier for you to quickly and easily identify the bluebird from the rest of the flock.
When studying bluebirds, your study should have the following focal points:
Silhouette – Familiarize yourself with the outline of bluebirds.
Plumage or Appearance – Secondly, try to memorize the unique physical characteristics of bluebirds. Know the shape of its head and beak and the color and pattern of its feathers.
Behavior – Research the behavioral patterns of bluebirds; learn what they do when hunting for food, protecting themselves from being prey, taking care of their young, and when trying to attract a mate.
Call – Learn how to distinguish the call of bluebirds from the chirping of other avians.
Habitat – Lastly, learn where bluebirds are most likely to live and if they migrate to other places during certain times of the year.
BIRDWATCHING TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT
To facilitate your viewing quest for bluebirds, make sure that you have the following handy:
Binoculars – 20/20 vision is unfortunately not powerful enough to be able to observe birds at a great distance. There will come a certain point in time that you need binoculars to help you attain your objective.
Log Book – Don’t rely on your brain and memory to recall every minute of your trip in perfect detail. Why take the risk of forgetting something pertinent when you don’t have to? All you need is an old-fashioned notebook and pencil or pen to keep accurate and comprehensive records of your observations.
Food and Water (Yours) – So you won’t miss out on anything
Food and Water (Theirs) – So you can lure bluebirds closer to you.
Don’t be blue if it takes you quite some time to search for those bluebirds!
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Feed Birds NOT Squirrels using Squirrel Proof Bird Feeders
It happens without fail, just as soon as you have put fresh food in your bird feeder you look outside to see that you have an unwanted invader, somehow a squirrel has found a way to get his greedy little paws on the treats in your bird feeder. While some people think squirrels are cute, avid bird lovers know that they are not so cute when they are hanging off your bird feeder and stealing the food you have put out for your invited, feathered guests. Squirrels are truly the bird-lover's garden nemesis, but there are ways that you can deter them and make your yard a birds-only sanctuary again. Here are some tips to help you outsmart these fuzzy little invaders:
o Buy squirrel-proof feeders. This can be tricky, because many of the so-called squirrel-proof feeders on the market turn out to be a small challenge to a determined rodent. Ask at your local home improvement or garden center for recommendations for the most effective products. In general, bird feeders that spin tend to work well, with the added entertainment value of watching dizzy squirrels stagger across the yard wondering what just happened to them
o Make it slippery. A popular feeder type is the feeder hung from a bent metal "shepherd's hook." Many people believe that squirrels cannot climb such a small pole, but they are mistaken, squirrels can and will climb almost anything to get a meal. One way to deter them from your metal pole is to spray it with nonstick cooking spray. The squirrels won't be able to get a good grip, and will slide right back down to the ground.
o Baffle them. No, this doesn't mean that you amaze the squirrels with a magic trick, but rather that you install a baffle, or barrier around the feeder. Baffles can be made of metal, like roof flashing, or plastic, like a large, slippery kitchen bowl. You can also purchase a squirrel baffle from a hardware store.
o Make them walk the high wire. You can also suspend your bird feeder in the middle of a wire that connects from your home to a nearby tree or fence. String the wire with whatever round things you can find pieces of PVC pipe, old soda bottles, cans, etc. Squirrels will lose their footing before they ever make it to the bird feeder, again harmless to the squirrels, but amusing to anyone who watches them fly off the high wire.
o If you can't beat them… Ultimately squirrels are coming after your food because they are hungry. If nothing else works, consider installing a feeder just for the squirrels. If you stock it with tasty squirrel treats like peanuts and corn, they might just be full enough to leave your bird feeders alone.
By: www.yourbirdoasis.com
o Buy squirrel-proof feeders. This can be tricky, because many of the so-called squirrel-proof feeders on the market turn out to be a small challenge to a determined rodent. Ask at your local home improvement or garden center for recommendations for the most effective products. In general, bird feeders that spin tend to work well, with the added entertainment value of watching dizzy squirrels stagger across the yard wondering what just happened to them
o Make it slippery. A popular feeder type is the feeder hung from a bent metal "shepherd's hook." Many people believe that squirrels cannot climb such a small pole, but they are mistaken, squirrels can and will climb almost anything to get a meal. One way to deter them from your metal pole is to spray it with nonstick cooking spray. The squirrels won't be able to get a good grip, and will slide right back down to the ground.
o Baffle them. No, this doesn't mean that you amaze the squirrels with a magic trick, but rather that you install a baffle, or barrier around the feeder. Baffles can be made of metal, like roof flashing, or plastic, like a large, slippery kitchen bowl. You can also purchase a squirrel baffle from a hardware store.
o Make them walk the high wire. You can also suspend your bird feeder in the middle of a wire that connects from your home to a nearby tree or fence. String the wire with whatever round things you can find pieces of PVC pipe, old soda bottles, cans, etc. Squirrels will lose their footing before they ever make it to the bird feeder, again harmless to the squirrels, but amusing to anyone who watches them fly off the high wire.
o If you can't beat them… Ultimately squirrels are coming after your food because they are hungry. If nothing else works, consider installing a feeder just for the squirrels. If you stock it with tasty squirrel treats like peanuts and corn, they might just be full enough to leave your bird feeders alone.
By: www.yourbirdoasis.com
Sunday, November 30, 2008
A Few Points About Wren House Plans
Today we are going to discuss Wren house plans.
It seems that everyone loves song birds. Even the most notoriously disruptive minds in history, such as Ghengis Kahn, Adolf Hitler, and Idi Amin simply MUST have liked the sound of birds chirruping like little cherubs out on tree branches during the morning. One of the most cherished of song birds is the wren, and so the subject of our article here is about Wren house plans.
If one wants to hear wrens singing away each morning, one can capture a few of these birds and subject them to a life of captivity and possible misery. A better option is to build a bird house specifically for these angelic-voiced creatures. To do this, one requires wren house plans.Wren house plans are the basic diagrams for building a bird house for one of humanity's great sirens of song. These plans are quite specific to attracting this specific species (though admittedly, sometimes chickadees and other small birds will also pop in from time to time). The more the merrier!
To get the most out of your bird house, you must get the wren house plans with the most goodies. Carefully select the option you feel will be best for your bird house. While many such plans are readily available online for little or no cost, some of the features can be added on. If this seems too difficult, there are wren house plans that can be purchased that are sure to accommodate the best features. These features include easy-access hinged doors, lightweight construction materials, decently-sized compartments, individual porches, and insulated attics.
A little explanation of each of these is in order. First, having doors that are hinged will allow for easy access for purposes of inspecting nests for eggs or simple human curiosity/snooping. Lightweight materials are important in construction as they reduce the chances of a house falling off a pole in a storm or stiff breeze. Compartments of a relatively large size (usually about 6x6x12 inches is a good amount) will keep the occupants comfortable without allowing larger fowl in. Lastly, an insulated attic simply makes for greater warmth, and who doesn't like to be warm, including wrens.
The singing of Wrens is delightful to the ear and you will have much joy with your bird houses.
Article Source: http://www.ArticlesandAuthors.com - THE Premier Site for Articles AND Authors
About this Article Author:
Keith Londrie is a well known author, developer and ebook expert as well as the owner of keithlondrie.com - a unique Ebook empire with a selection of over 7,000 ebooks. You are sure to find one you want. Visit today
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
What Happen To The Moa Bird
The Moa bird was a huge bird. However, the biggest moa was the Giant Moa. It was taller than three metres and weighed nearly 250 kilograms. The giant moa was one of the largest of all birds ever known in the world. Nevertheless, there were smaller moa birds. The smallest moa species was a little larger in size than a turkey and nearly half a metre tall.
Scientists have collected lots of information regarding the moa bird through fossils (bones) that are found all around New Zealand. For several hundreds of years these birds have been extinct. Some were as big as the Big Bird from Sesame Street. But the smallest were not much larger than our average turkeys. These birds were eaten to extinction along with other bird species, by Maori. These birds were flightless.
At their last count, there were eleven different species of the bird. They mostly were the inhabitants of the forests and not the grasslands. Another astonishing discovery about the bird is that they probably did not stand around with their heads in the air, unlike some of the museum mounts that we see today. Even though they are extinct now, you can still find their bones, mostly in caves, swamps and sand dunes. However, they are not the only extinct New Zealand bird.
The question as to how the moa bird becomes extinct has its answers with the scientists. They say that these birds lived in New Zealand when the Maori people arrived, but it is still believed that the moa bird was totally extinct in 1769 when Captain Cook arrived in New Zealand.
Some of the land was cleared by the Maori people, which would have killed the bird directly or reduced its habitat. Nevertheless the core reason as to why the bird became extinct was because of hunting. The moa bird was an obvious source of food in a land without mammals except for the bat. Moa bones have been found in the midden locations (these are where huge amounts of cooking remains are found) around New Zealand. From the bones that have been discovered at the midden locations, scientists have also discovered and learnt about the different species of the bird and have reached down to a conclusion that over-hunting was the chief reason as to why the bird is extinct today.
Scientists also believe that the moa bird was extinct by 1500 and that no one really ever saw the bird alive. However, there ate tales that would make us believe that there were a few of these birds left in New Zealand when Captain Cook and his men arrived. There have even been stories that were told during the 1900's that would make people believe that there was still a moa bird roaming around in the forests of New Zealand.
To read about tiger facts and cat facts, visit the Animals Facts site.
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
Scientists have collected lots of information regarding the moa bird through fossils (bones) that are found all around New Zealand. For several hundreds of years these birds have been extinct. Some were as big as the Big Bird from Sesame Street. But the smallest were not much larger than our average turkeys. These birds were eaten to extinction along with other bird species, by Maori. These birds were flightless.
At their last count, there were eleven different species of the bird. They mostly were the inhabitants of the forests and not the grasslands. Another astonishing discovery about the bird is that they probably did not stand around with their heads in the air, unlike some of the museum mounts that we see today. Even though they are extinct now, you can still find their bones, mostly in caves, swamps and sand dunes. However, they are not the only extinct New Zealand bird.
The question as to how the moa bird becomes extinct has its answers with the scientists. They say that these birds lived in New Zealand when the Maori people arrived, but it is still believed that the moa bird was totally extinct in 1769 when Captain Cook arrived in New Zealand.
Some of the land was cleared by the Maori people, which would have killed the bird directly or reduced its habitat. Nevertheless the core reason as to why the bird became extinct was because of hunting. The moa bird was an obvious source of food in a land without mammals except for the bat. Moa bones have been found in the midden locations (these are where huge amounts of cooking remains are found) around New Zealand. From the bones that have been discovered at the midden locations, scientists have also discovered and learnt about the different species of the bird and have reached down to a conclusion that over-hunting was the chief reason as to why the bird is extinct today.
Scientists also believe that the moa bird was extinct by 1500 and that no one really ever saw the bird alive. However, there ate tales that would make us believe that there were a few of these birds left in New Zealand when Captain Cook and his men arrived. There have even been stories that were told during the 1900's that would make people believe that there was still a moa bird roaming around in the forests of New Zealand.
To read about tiger facts and cat facts, visit the Animals Facts site.
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
The Mountain Bluebird
The Nevada State bird is the Mountain Bluebird, which is also known as the Sialia currucoides. It is an impeccably beautiful bird. The Nevada State bird is a medium sized bird which is mostly an insectivorous or omnivorous bird in the genus Sialia of the thrush family Turdiae.
The adult Mountain Bluebird has thin bills. The adult males are bright blue in colour and somewhat lighter in colour underneath. On the other hand the female adult Mountain Blue birds are a duller shade of blue, even their wings are of a dull blue colour and so is its tail. The females and the males both have a grey coloured breast, a grey crown as well as the throat and the back. They are a combination of blue and grey which makes them extremely gorgeous.
The Nevada State bird comes from one of the relatively few thrush groups. As the name Mountain Bluebird implies, they are very attractive birds. There is no noticeable difference in the size between both the sexes of the species as they are all medium-sized.
Their breeding habitat is in the open country across the western North America, which includes mountainous areas as far north as Alaska. These birds usually nest in cavities or in nest boxes. In more remote areas, these birds are not likely to be affected by competition for natural nesting locations than the other bluebirds.
The Mountain Bluebirds migrate to the southern parts of the range; as southern birds are permanent dwellers. However, some of these birds may move to lower elevation in the winter season because of the climatic conditions.
The Nevada State birds hover and fly over the ground. They are mostly seen flying down to catch insects, and also flies that perch to catching them. They basically feed on insects and berries. In the winters they are seen foraging in flocks.
These birds are highly territorial and will most probably clash with other songbirds that compete with their nesting and food resources. They usually prefer grasslands that are scattered with abundant trees. Under most favourable weather conditions, this is mostly during the springtime; these birds produce two broods of young that amount to being about four to five eggs per clutch. The males build a number of nests for the females, and then it is the female that decides on the ultimate nesting location. Most of the individual Nevada state birds that wish to build and mount nesting boxes for bluebirds place predator baffles that are approximately 36 inches in length on the poles to prevent predation of their young by snakes, cats and raccoons. The non-native other bluebirds that compete with these birds for nesting locations include the house wren and the house sparrow, both of which have been known to kill the young Mountain Bluebirds.
For tips on fish facts and shark facts, visit the Animals Facts website.
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
The adult Mountain Bluebird has thin bills. The adult males are bright blue in colour and somewhat lighter in colour underneath. On the other hand the female adult Mountain Blue birds are a duller shade of blue, even their wings are of a dull blue colour and so is its tail. The females and the males both have a grey coloured breast, a grey crown as well as the throat and the back. They are a combination of blue and grey which makes them extremely gorgeous.
The Nevada State bird comes from one of the relatively few thrush groups. As the name Mountain Bluebird implies, they are very attractive birds. There is no noticeable difference in the size between both the sexes of the species as they are all medium-sized.
Their breeding habitat is in the open country across the western North America, which includes mountainous areas as far north as Alaska. These birds usually nest in cavities or in nest boxes. In more remote areas, these birds are not likely to be affected by competition for natural nesting locations than the other bluebirds.
The Mountain Bluebirds migrate to the southern parts of the range; as southern birds are permanent dwellers. However, some of these birds may move to lower elevation in the winter season because of the climatic conditions.
The Nevada State birds hover and fly over the ground. They are mostly seen flying down to catch insects, and also flies that perch to catching them. They basically feed on insects and berries. In the winters they are seen foraging in flocks.
These birds are highly territorial and will most probably clash with other songbirds that compete with their nesting and food resources. They usually prefer grasslands that are scattered with abundant trees. Under most favourable weather conditions, this is mostly during the springtime; these birds produce two broods of young that amount to being about four to five eggs per clutch. The males build a number of nests for the females, and then it is the female that decides on the ultimate nesting location. Most of the individual Nevada state birds that wish to build and mount nesting boxes for bluebirds place predator baffles that are approximately 36 inches in length on the poles to prevent predation of their young by snakes, cats and raccoons. The non-native other bluebirds that compete with these birds for nesting locations include the house wren and the house sparrow, both of which have been known to kill the young Mountain Bluebirds.
For tips on fish facts and shark facts, visit the Animals Facts website.
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
Peach Faced Love Birds
My Peach Faced lovebirds are pint-sized bundles of joy. They have the full personality of parrots while being easy to house because of their size. My birds are little clowns, playing for hours at a time. They love to hang from toys, spin them around, and dance on your shoulder. I have had to watch my buttons! They love to pull them off my clothes! Such loving little birds: they love to snuggle and preen.
Many people believe lovebirds must be kept in pairs. This is simply not true. A single lovebird makes a better pet because it bonds to you rather than to another lovebird. While it is easy to keep a pair of lovebirds tame, if you plan on spending lots of time with your bird you can keep it alone. However, if you work long hours and don't think you'll have a lot of time for your love bird, I recommend you get him/her a companion. This will keep your lovebirds happy and prevent boredom. It is important to realize that while lovebirds are a small parrot, they have the intelligence and abilities of some of the largest parrots.
They never stop amazing me with their ability to escape their own cages. I have to put copper wire on the cage doors to keep them in, and sometimes they figure out how to untwist the wire and open the door!
Lovebirds will sometimes try to become the little bosses of the household. I recommend using the same type of gentle dominance training that is used for larger parrots. Are you looking for a bird that you can teach to talk? Lovebirds can learn to mimic sounds and speech on occasion. However, I don't recommend that you buy any species of bird only because of the expectation that it will speak; even the famous African Greys sometimes don't learn to speak. So, if that is your only reason for buying a bird, I’d seriously urge you to reconsider as the bird could end up abandoned because of your own disappointment. In my opinion, love birds and parrots both make great pets even if they never utter a word. We have both in our home. The lovebirds chatter away all day, never making a sound that anyone can understand, except as being simply ‘noisy chatter.’ However, our Double Yellow Head parrot makes up for it; his vocabulary is very long, extensive and he is constantly talking.
If you decide to breed love birds just remember they are prolific breeders. You may soon, as we did, find our home over run with lovebirds! And, as a word of caution, "do not" put bark chips in the nest of the baby birds. Though the odor is pleasant to humans and is good for older birds it is too strong for baby lovebirds. I must admit I learned the hard way and had casualties on my hands! Paper is the best thing to put in the nest along with some alfalfa. Do not get powdered alfalfa, rather dried alfalfa blades. If you decide to use paper, do cut the paper (newspaper is best) in long strips and put it beside the nest. Mama will take it into the nest. And, remember if mama snaps at you she is only protecting her nest!
Ms. CiCi has a gift of teaching, is an accomplished author and world traveler who enjoys sharing her life's experiences with others, making their life, their world a bit easier. Her writings expose her wealth of "secret information" so derived from her travels as well as drawing from her own personal wealth of wisdom. Ms. CiCi builds websites to help share her vast knowledge and great experiences. Do take time and visit: http://www.CiCi-Online.com
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
Many people believe lovebirds must be kept in pairs. This is simply not true. A single lovebird makes a better pet because it bonds to you rather than to another lovebird. While it is easy to keep a pair of lovebirds tame, if you plan on spending lots of time with your bird you can keep it alone. However, if you work long hours and don't think you'll have a lot of time for your love bird, I recommend you get him/her a companion. This will keep your lovebirds happy and prevent boredom. It is important to realize that while lovebirds are a small parrot, they have the intelligence and abilities of some of the largest parrots.
They never stop amazing me with their ability to escape their own cages. I have to put copper wire on the cage doors to keep them in, and sometimes they figure out how to untwist the wire and open the door!
Lovebirds will sometimes try to become the little bosses of the household. I recommend using the same type of gentle dominance training that is used for larger parrots. Are you looking for a bird that you can teach to talk? Lovebirds can learn to mimic sounds and speech on occasion. However, I don't recommend that you buy any species of bird only because of the expectation that it will speak; even the famous African Greys sometimes don't learn to speak. So, if that is your only reason for buying a bird, I’d seriously urge you to reconsider as the bird could end up abandoned because of your own disappointment. In my opinion, love birds and parrots both make great pets even if they never utter a word. We have both in our home. The lovebirds chatter away all day, never making a sound that anyone can understand, except as being simply ‘noisy chatter.’ However, our Double Yellow Head parrot makes up for it; his vocabulary is very long, extensive and he is constantly talking.
If you decide to breed love birds just remember they are prolific breeders. You may soon, as we did, find our home over run with lovebirds! And, as a word of caution, "do not" put bark chips in the nest of the baby birds. Though the odor is pleasant to humans and is good for older birds it is too strong for baby lovebirds. I must admit I learned the hard way and had casualties on my hands! Paper is the best thing to put in the nest along with some alfalfa. Do not get powdered alfalfa, rather dried alfalfa blades. If you decide to use paper, do cut the paper (newspaper is best) in long strips and put it beside the nest. Mama will take it into the nest. And, remember if mama snaps at you she is only protecting her nest!
Ms. CiCi has a gift of teaching, is an accomplished author and world traveler who enjoys sharing her life's experiences with others, making their life, their world a bit easier. Her writings expose her wealth of "secret information" so derived from her travels as well as drawing from her own personal wealth of wisdom. Ms. CiCi builds websites to help share her vast knowledge and great experiences. Do take time and visit: http://www.CiCi-Online.com
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
Parrots make wonderful, colorful and entertaining pets. However, parrots need special care in order to be happy and healthy. Here are some basic tips to help you care for your parrot:
The Cage
One of the most important aspects of a parrot's care is its cage. Look for a cage that gives your parrot plenty of room to move around, even spread its wings a bit. It's also important to purchase a cage that will look good in your room as it will be as permanent as any piece of furniture. You'll also want to make sure you choose a cage that has bars with appropriate spacing for the type and size of your parrot, to prevent injury by your parrot fitting his or her head through the bars.
Feeding
Parrot foods available include the typical seed diet as well as pellet food. Pellet food generally contains more of a variety of nutrients and food than a seed diet. Pellets contain fruits and vegetables as well as a variety of grains. What you choose to feed your parrot may depend on your parrot's taste as some parrots simply won't like seeds, but will enjoy pellets and vice versa. In addition to pellets or seeds, treats are also available for parrots, including mixtures of fruits, nuts and seeds.
Grooming
Parrots do require regular grooming, including grooming of their beaks, nails and wings, but generally it is not recommended for a novice to attempt to groom their parrot. Consider taking a lesson from a veterinarian or bird expert before attempting to groom your parrot, this is for your safety as well as your parrot.
Cage Maintenance
Make sure to line the cage with papers and change the papers daily. You should also change and wash the food and water bowls daily. Every few weeks, you should thoroughly clean and sterilize your parrot's cage and dishes with a diluted bleach solution.
Training
One of the biggest advantages to having a parrot is that your parrot can be trained to do any number of tasks and tricks. Training aids are available including click trainers, harnesses and leashes. Consider also a parrot training book or DVD to help you train your parrot.
Entertainment
Toys will be important to the entertainment and general emotional health and behavior of your parrot. Get them toys that are appropriate for their size, age and temperament. Great toys for parrots include rubber toys, puzzle type toys, wood toys, leather toys, toys where the parrot can practice foraging for food and metal toys.
SuperParrots offers a wide range of parrot products including parrot foods, toys, training aids, treats, cages, perches, play gyms and other supplies and accessories. SuperParrots also carries Harrison's Organic Food products and offers guaranteed lowest pricing and free shipping. Visit us at: http://www.superparrots.com
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
The Cage
One of the most important aspects of a parrot's care is its cage. Look for a cage that gives your parrot plenty of room to move around, even spread its wings a bit. It's also important to purchase a cage that will look good in your room as it will be as permanent as any piece of furniture. You'll also want to make sure you choose a cage that has bars with appropriate spacing for the type and size of your parrot, to prevent injury by your parrot fitting his or her head through the bars.
Feeding
Parrot foods available include the typical seed diet as well as pellet food. Pellet food generally contains more of a variety of nutrients and food than a seed diet. Pellets contain fruits and vegetables as well as a variety of grains. What you choose to feed your parrot may depend on your parrot's taste as some parrots simply won't like seeds, but will enjoy pellets and vice versa. In addition to pellets or seeds, treats are also available for parrots, including mixtures of fruits, nuts and seeds.
Grooming
Parrots do require regular grooming, including grooming of their beaks, nails and wings, but generally it is not recommended for a novice to attempt to groom their parrot. Consider taking a lesson from a veterinarian or bird expert before attempting to groom your parrot, this is for your safety as well as your parrot.
Cage Maintenance
Make sure to line the cage with papers and change the papers daily. You should also change and wash the food and water bowls daily. Every few weeks, you should thoroughly clean and sterilize your parrot's cage and dishes with a diluted bleach solution.
Training
One of the biggest advantages to having a parrot is that your parrot can be trained to do any number of tasks and tricks. Training aids are available including click trainers, harnesses and leashes. Consider also a parrot training book or DVD to help you train your parrot.
Entertainment
Toys will be important to the entertainment and general emotional health and behavior of your parrot. Get them toys that are appropriate for their size, age and temperament. Great toys for parrots include rubber toys, puzzle type toys, wood toys, leather toys, toys where the parrot can practice foraging for food and metal toys.
SuperParrots offers a wide range of parrot products including parrot foods, toys, training aids, treats, cages, perches, play gyms and other supplies and accessories. SuperParrots also carries Harrison's Organic Food products and offers guaranteed lowest pricing and free shipping. Visit us at: http://www.superparrots.com
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
The Pleasure of Bird-bathing
When we think of attracting birds to our yards, we think of bird feeders. To be sure, they do bring many species within viewing distance. But birds are also attracted to water. And they especially appreciate bird baths this time of year because of heat and dry conditions. A large population of juvenile birds and the start of migration season will bring even more to bathe. In addition, there are many species that dine on insects and would never frequent a seed feeder. So the addition of water features will attract more such as flycatchers, mockingbirds, tanagers, thrashers, thrushes, vireos and warblers.
There are many kinds of baths available on the market: bowls and dishes, puddles and fountains, some suspended and some set on the ground. With a little ingenuity, you can make your own from a tray, garbage can lid or a Frisbee. Any type of bath will attract birds, but some species prefer particular structures and bath placement. To attract a diversity of species, consider more than one type of bath.
The most popular type of bird bath with humans is the bowl or dish on a 3' pedestal, perhaps because they function well as landscape ornaments. Fortunately, they are popular with many birds, too. They readily attract cardinals, catbirds, chickadees, doves, finches, goldfinches, mockingbirds, nuthatches, orioles and sparrows.
Dishes or bowls set on the ground or partially buried are especially popular with ground birds such as quail. But they also attract doves, juncos, robins and sparrows.
Multi-level pools and fountains can have the added attraction of moving water powered by recirculating submersible pumps. These types of baths draw buntings, cardinals, catbirds, cedar waxwings, chickadees, doves, finches, flycatchers, goldfinches, grosbeaks, mockingbirds, nuthatches, orioles, sparrows, titmice, thrushes, vireos and warblers.
Moving water can also be provided by a simple dripper or a garden hose with a water timer placed above a bowl, dish or shallow pool. The Water Wiggler is a useful battery-operated device that provides movement by gently agitating the water. The sound of the water attracts birds likes doves, juncos, mockingbirds, quail, robins, sparrows and towhees.
Even a small hanging cup will attract a few little birds like chickadees, finches and titmice for a drink.
Hummingbirds seem like they're always on the move. Just as they eat in flight, they bathe on the wing. To please them, set up a mister near your hummingbird feeder or over your pedestal bath. They'll fly to and fro through the mist, then perch somewhere in a tree to preen and dry.
Keeping bird baths is a simple and pleasurable task. Here are a few tips:
* Provide clean water. Still water may need to be replaced daily since it can become stagnant in the heat. Flowing water may be freshened less frequently. * Refill the bath before it becomes dry. This is always important, but especially so if you are running a submersible pump. * Maintain a shallow depth. Water more than 2" deep is too deep for the little creatures. They want to bathe, not swim. * Provide non-slip footing. Plastic and glazed ceramic baths my have slippery surfaces. You may improve them by creating small islands or shoals of pebbles in the center or around the edges. * Extend the bathing season by adding a thermostatically controlled water heater.
So, while the time is best, set up a bird bath near your home. The birds will show their appreciation by providing you with an educational and entertaining experience.
John Marshall is the owner of http://www.goGardenNow.com, an online shop for gardeners and "yardeners."
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
There are many kinds of baths available on the market: bowls and dishes, puddles and fountains, some suspended and some set on the ground. With a little ingenuity, you can make your own from a tray, garbage can lid or a Frisbee. Any type of bath will attract birds, but some species prefer particular structures and bath placement. To attract a diversity of species, consider more than one type of bath.
The most popular type of bird bath with humans is the bowl or dish on a 3' pedestal, perhaps because they function well as landscape ornaments. Fortunately, they are popular with many birds, too. They readily attract cardinals, catbirds, chickadees, doves, finches, goldfinches, mockingbirds, nuthatches, orioles and sparrows.
Dishes or bowls set on the ground or partially buried are especially popular with ground birds such as quail. But they also attract doves, juncos, robins and sparrows.
Multi-level pools and fountains can have the added attraction of moving water powered by recirculating submersible pumps. These types of baths draw buntings, cardinals, catbirds, cedar waxwings, chickadees, doves, finches, flycatchers, goldfinches, grosbeaks, mockingbirds, nuthatches, orioles, sparrows, titmice, thrushes, vireos and warblers.
Moving water can also be provided by a simple dripper or a garden hose with a water timer placed above a bowl, dish or shallow pool. The Water Wiggler is a useful battery-operated device that provides movement by gently agitating the water. The sound of the water attracts birds likes doves, juncos, mockingbirds, quail, robins, sparrows and towhees.
Even a small hanging cup will attract a few little birds like chickadees, finches and titmice for a drink.
Hummingbirds seem like they're always on the move. Just as they eat in flight, they bathe on the wing. To please them, set up a mister near your hummingbird feeder or over your pedestal bath. They'll fly to and fro through the mist, then perch somewhere in a tree to preen and dry.
Keeping bird baths is a simple and pleasurable task. Here are a few tips:
* Provide clean water. Still water may need to be replaced daily since it can become stagnant in the heat. Flowing water may be freshened less frequently. * Refill the bath before it becomes dry. This is always important, but especially so if you are running a submersible pump. * Maintain a shallow depth. Water more than 2" deep is too deep for the little creatures. They want to bathe, not swim. * Provide non-slip footing. Plastic and glazed ceramic baths my have slippery surfaces. You may improve them by creating small islands or shoals of pebbles in the center or around the edges. * Extend the bathing season by adding a thermostatically controlled water heater.
So, while the time is best, set up a bird bath near your home. The birds will show their appreciation by providing you with an educational and entertaining experience.
John Marshall is the owner of http://www.goGardenNow.com, an online shop for gardeners and "yardeners."
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
Monday, October 27, 2008
Attract Birds To Your Garden By Giving Them What They Need
For those bird lovers who love birds and would like to have more of them in their garden, there are some easy steps they can take to attract birds all year round. First you have to realize that birds need and look for certain things in the environment before they will set up a nest. Give it these things and your garden will never lack for birds.
When a bird is making a decision to live in or visit your garden sanctuary, it is basically asking itself these questions. And will make its decision based on it's instinct.
Where Can I find cover?
In the average cityscape, birds have one major predator - cats. Domesticated and homeless cats kill millions of birds throughout the U.S. every year. Additional predators include other birds such as owls, hawks, and falcons. We also can't forget predators such as snakes, raccoons, squirrels, and chipmunks.
So one of the first things a bird is asking itself is "where can I find cover" to hide and protect myself from predators? You can help the bird make the decision to choose your yard by putting up cat proof fencing. You can also plan your garden so that it has widely spaced open areas to deny cover for predator where they can mount a sneak attack.
Is There Available Shelter?
Evergreens and other bushes planted against garden and house walls provide a natural shelter to shield birds from rain. You can also place a combination bird house and bird feeder in the garden which not only supplies food, but includes a pitched top and side walls that can protect them from rain, heavy storms, and harsh winds.
Is There A Place Where I Can Raise A Family?
During the breeding season, this is one of the primary features that birds are looking for. They are looking for a place where they can settle down for a while with their partner and raise their young ones. Depending on the birds you are trying to attract to your garden, you can plant the appropriate trees, shrubs, hedges, and so on where they would normally nest if they were in the wild. If you are more ambitious, you can buy or build them a custom birdhouse which will meet all of their housing needs.
Is There Plenty Of Food And Water Nearby?
Natural food sources are the best. Birds will look for their natural food sources before attempting other foods. So find out the natural types of foods that your birds of choice like and populate your garden with them. In the winter time when the natural food sources have dried out and birds are having a hard time scrounging up food, bird feeders can be their friend. Populate a bird feeder with seeds, suet, and other alternative food choices that you know they would enjoy. And don't forget water. Birds love and need water and a birdbath will do wonders to attract birds to your yard, In colder climates, an added investment of a few dollars to buy a heated birdbath will pay great dividends in the winter months.
A bird's life is fragile and their existence is fraught with danger for nearly all of their lives. The more you can do to help them beat the odds the better for them and the better for you as you enjoy their presence all year round.
For those bird lovers who love birds and would like to have more of them in their garden, there are some easy steps they can take to attract birds all year round. First you have to realize that birds need and look for certain things in the environment before they will set up a nest. Give it these things and your garden will never lack for birds.
When a bird is making a decision to live in or visit your garden sanctuary, it is basically asking itself these questions. And will make its decision based on it's instinct.
Where Can I find cover?
In the average cityscape, birds have one major predator - cats. Domesticated and homeless cats kill millions of birds throughout the U.S. every year. Additional predators include other birds such as owls, hawks, and falcons. We also can't forget predators such as snakes, raccoons, squirrels, and chipmunks.
So one of the first things a bird is asking itself is "where can I find cover" to hide and protect myself from predators? You can help the bird make the decision to choose your yard by putting up cat proof fencing. You can also plan your garden so that it has widely spaced open areas to deny cover for predator where they can mount a sneak attack.
Is There Available Shelter?
Evergreens and other bushes planted against garden and house walls provide a natural shelter to shield birds from rain. You can also place a combination bird house and bird feeder in the garden which not only supplies food, but includes a pitched top and side walls that can protect them from rain, heavy storms, and harsh winds.
Is There A Place Where I Can Raise A Family?
During the breeding season, this is one of the primary features that birds are looking for. They are looking for a place where they can settle down for a while with their partner and raise their young ones. Depending on the birds you are trying to attract to your garden, you can plant the appropriate trees, shrubs, hedges, and so on where they would normally nest if they were in the wild. If you are more ambitious, you can buy or build them a custom birdhouse which will meet all of their housing needs.
Is There Plenty Of Food And Water Nearby?
Natural food sources are the best. Birds will look for their natural food sources before attempting other foods. So find out the natural types of foods that your birds of choice like and populate your garden with them. In the winter time when the natural food sources have dried out and birds are having a hard time scrounging up food, bird feeders can be their friend. Populate a bird feeder with seeds, suet, and other alternative food choices that you know they would enjoy. And don't forget water. Birds love and need water and a birdbath will do wonders to attract birds to your yard, In colder climates, an added investment of a few dollars to buy a heated birdbath will pay great dividends in the winter months.
A bird's life is fragile and their existence is fraught with danger for nearly all of their lives. The more you can do to help them beat the odds the better for them and the better for you as you enjoy their presence all year round.
Author:
Ken Lawless is an author who writes articles on decorative bird house plans and other topics relating to birds and birdhouses. Visit his site at www.birdhousesinfo.com for more information on bird houses.
Terms: Articles may be reprinted provided content is not edited and links are kept live
Source: www.articledepot.co.uk
Thursday, October 16, 2008
The Care and Feeding of Wild Baby Birds
Have you found yourself in the position of baby bird caregiver? In feeding wild baby birds, you have a few different options available. To aid you in feeding these birds in need, you can use a variety of tools to deliver the food. Tools to consider that are easily available include: tweezers, syringes, eyedroppers, small paint brushes, popsicle sticks, blunt toothpicks, your fingers and pipettes.Depending on what food or formula you're giving, pick the most suitable tool or a combination. The thickness of the food formula is usually dependant on the age of the bird so if you're feeding a group use a combination of tools that are most effective.
Young birds will readily reach out for food until they are full. Avoid over-feeding baby birds but remember they need frequent small feedings. If they are slow to take food, they may be full or too dehydrated to eat.
Also if a baby bird doesn't take food, it may be sick, nervous, or unaware that your gesture is a feeding attempt. In these cases, try taping the side of the nest or whistle lightly so as to mimic a parent birds arrival home.
Baby birds in the wild are naturally fed throughout the day. You'll want to do the same as the bird's caregiver. Generally hatchings should be fed every 20 minutes.
Young birds who are not babies can be fed every two hours. Try to give baby birds the same food they would naturally eat in the wild. You may need to research what that particular bird species normally eats. You may also call a local animal center to inquire about what food is appropriate or if a formula recipe is suitable for your particular bird. When feeding ensure that any food is cleaned up and not left to dry on the bird's feathers as this can cause skin problems or feather to fall off.
The goal of you as the caregiver of a baby bird, is to provide temporary care until the bird is well enough to survive in it's natural environment on it's own. Avoid interacting with bird other than at feeding and cleaning times. Also ensure that the bird is kept away from domestic animals including pet birds.I hope this helps you rehabilitate and feed the wild baby birds you find in need.
About the author:
Eve Duncan is a freelance writer, researcher and web publisher from Canada. To get other tips about birds and squirrel problems, visit Squirrelproofer.com where you can also learn squirrel proof bird feeders. Article Source: http://www.free-articles-zone.com/
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
6 things that we have to consider before buying a bird .
What to start with? First we have to consider the following : What can I afford? The price of on parrot varies in large bounds in dependence with the species. You can buy for example a budgie for less than 10 $. The price of the cockatiel varies between 25 and 35 $.
An Amazonian parrot and grey parrot can be purchased for about 300 – 400$, cockatoo for 1,000 $...... and the price of some parrots reaches $15,000! This is one of the initial questions which you have to answer. How much space will the bird need? Larger birds and even some of the small ones are very active physically and need big cages and space in which to play.
Is there any free time for the bird? Probably this is the most important question. Birds are intelligent, playful and mostly “ social ” creatures. Will you have time to play with your bird?
To care properly of it? Will it have the chance to be a part of your family? Consider the fact that birds live fairly long. A small parrot cockatiel lives for 20 years and more! Amazona or African grey parrot can live for 50, 60 and there are documented cases for birds that lived up to the respectable age of 100 years! Can you devote to this? It is not unusual to inherit birds for previous generations. Don't buy a bird if you think that you will soon get bored of it. How noisy is the bird? Will the neighbors murmur?
Budgies and cockatiel are comparatively quiet. They are suitable to look after in a flat. Moluxco cockatoo could live in flat just if you have neighbors around you and six floors above / below you that like listening screams to cracking their ear - drums. The African grey parrot tends to be one of comparatively non-noisy parrots. Certainly, there are individual differences between birds.
Somewhere there could be cockatoo, that don ' t make noisy to heaven. If really there could be found such, an enterprising person could make a fortune of it. Remember that noise is a subjective and relative sensation.
A bird can be considered as “ non-noisy ” only at the background of another one,considered as noisy. How “ destructive ” could a bird be? Do you possess peerless old furniture? Rare books? Remember that these birds have strong beaks,. Some of them are less inclined to “ nibbling ” than others, but nibbling is completely natural behaviour for them. Does the parrot need special food? Lory parrots, for example, need a specialized diet. Do you have an opportunity and means to provide it? Once you have made a preliminary investigation and have decided what kind of parrot you want, you can go looking for it and buy it. NEVER, NEVER BUY A PARROT IMPULSIVELY!
Geomil Georgiev is owner and editor of http://www.birdscomfort.com and http://www.hqbirdcages.com where you can find information about birds. BirdsComfort and HQ Bird Cages provides detailed information in bird cages sale, as well as hq bird cages, cage covers, bird carriers, HQ play stands, bird perches, bird toys, and bird foods.
10 Things to Know Before Buying Bird Houses
1. Bird houses are big assortment of types, every to magnetize different species. Make a choice for house that suits to the feathered friends
2. Nesting houses magnetize birds that want to nest in hollow nesses. Such are bluebirds, woodpeckers, starlings, sparrows.
3. Your bird house must be in proportion to the size of birds which visit your home. Chickadees, wrens like little houses and so they feel secure.
4. Our bird houses are constructed to have resistance to the weather. They can stay out all the cold season to give shelter to certain species
5. You have to clean the bird house once a year , and make disinfection with a soap and some water.
6. in case your bird house is on a tree it have to be located above range and away from predators
7. Bird houses add personality to your yard. The kind of birds depends on the size and type of the house
8. Bats keep away from the yard mosquitoes and other pets. There are also bat houses for these animals
9. Wooden and bird houses from metal can revise paint when they are exhibited to the elements. The natural weathering is a share of their looks. 10. You can magnetize birds to your yard with food, water, shelter. The bird house is a mode to make the wildlife feel welcome any time and attract them to be back every year.
Limoeg Veigroeg is owner and editor of http://www.wildbirdscomfort.com where you can find information on every type of bird houses , bird feeders and all for wild birds. Wild Birds Comfort provides detailed information in decorative , custom , antique, wooden, and discount birdhouses sale, as well as bird feeders.
2. Nesting houses magnetize birds that want to nest in hollow nesses. Such are bluebirds, woodpeckers, starlings, sparrows.
3. Your bird house must be in proportion to the size of birds which visit your home. Chickadees, wrens like little houses and so they feel secure.
4. Our bird houses are constructed to have resistance to the weather. They can stay out all the cold season to give shelter to certain species
5. You have to clean the bird house once a year , and make disinfection with a soap and some water.
6. in case your bird house is on a tree it have to be located above range and away from predators
7. Bird houses add personality to your yard. The kind of birds depends on the size and type of the house
8. Bats keep away from the yard mosquitoes and other pets. There are also bat houses for these animals
9. Wooden and bird houses from metal can revise paint when they are exhibited to the elements. The natural weathering is a share of their looks. 10. You can magnetize birds to your yard with food, water, shelter. The bird house is a mode to make the wildlife feel welcome any time and attract them to be back every year.
Limoeg Veigroeg is owner and editor of http://www.wildbirdscomfort.com where you can find information on every type of bird houses , bird feeders and all for wild birds. Wild Birds Comfort provides detailed information in decorative , custom , antique, wooden, and discount birdhouses sale, as well as bird feeders.
Monday, October 13, 2008
Bird Flu: a Chicken Raiser's Nightmare
Since its outbreak, every poultry owner had become aware of the consequences that can happen if this deadly disease is not prevented. Bird flu or what is also known avian (meaning bird) influenza (flu), is the number one killer of poultry chickens in Asia and some parts of the world.Bird flu started in China and became a widespread disease for their chickens thus wiping out over millions of poultry businesses and dropping the chicken industry to a devastating point.
The thing about avian flu is that, not only can it affect birds but also humans which makes the illness more dangerous to various lives. It can be passed from chicken to chicken, chicken to person, person to person, person to chicken, and so on. That is why authorities in the health sectors are taking this serious matter in their hands and are making strict surveillance.Avian influenza is not just a disease underlying a typical cold. It is more than that. In fact, it can kill an entire poultry habitation within a week. If passed onto a person, it can be more lethal as a person can interact with hundreds of people in a day without even noticing that they have become the perfect carrier of the disease. Worse, this sickness is not a picky disease. It could affect everyone including children.
The incubation period, if passed to a human, is not exact but as record shows, it may take about three to five days from the exposure to the disease-causing virus. Till then, the person will experience signs and symptoms that are similar with the common cold like fever, cough, sore throat, and aching of the muscles. Sometimes, the only thing that could indicate if the person has bird flu is if they are having conjunctivitis.If the person who was affected and has experienced the signs and symptoms stated above ignored the indications, it may lead to severity of the disease. The person now will start to experience viral pneumonia and eventually, acute respiratory distress which is the most common cause of deaths among bird-related diseases.But this pandemic crisis can be pretty much prevented if certain precautions are practiced if everyone who is involved will cooperate with the measures that were given out by the authorities.
Through thorough surveillance, WHO (World Health Organization) supports in eliminating the disease. Through this, they can trace the source of infection and track down those who were affected by the flu. They will confirm instances of the disease and how many deaths were known. Once WHO officials find out the extent of the disease's proximity, they will contain the area under quarantine.
Those who are in the zone will not be allowed to go beyond it and those who wanted to enter will be prohibited. That is why the concerned officials must be responsible enough to bring in reliable data otherwise there would be miscalculations that can result to more chickens and people being affected instead of being saved.
With the word spread out all across the globe, the government is also having strict participation for the observance if there are any occurrences of the virus in their community. Residents are the one who have to be more watchful because they will be the one more affected.Their communication and participation is the most important tool to evacuate the presence of this disease and make raising chickens safer to both chickens and owners.
About the Author: Gargi Nath,a Professor in English in a reputed college in kolkata for the last 5 years having done masters and Phd.A keen creative author and have written many articles on numerous topics.Many of the articles are published regularly in newspapers and magazines.
Please visit my blog http://how-to-raise--chickens.blogspot.com for more information on chicken raising.
The thing about avian flu is that, not only can it affect birds but also humans which makes the illness more dangerous to various lives. It can be passed from chicken to chicken, chicken to person, person to person, person to chicken, and so on. That is why authorities in the health sectors are taking this serious matter in their hands and are making strict surveillance.Avian influenza is not just a disease underlying a typical cold. It is more than that. In fact, it can kill an entire poultry habitation within a week. If passed onto a person, it can be more lethal as a person can interact with hundreds of people in a day without even noticing that they have become the perfect carrier of the disease. Worse, this sickness is not a picky disease. It could affect everyone including children.
The incubation period, if passed to a human, is not exact but as record shows, it may take about three to five days from the exposure to the disease-causing virus. Till then, the person will experience signs and symptoms that are similar with the common cold like fever, cough, sore throat, and aching of the muscles. Sometimes, the only thing that could indicate if the person has bird flu is if they are having conjunctivitis.If the person who was affected and has experienced the signs and symptoms stated above ignored the indications, it may lead to severity of the disease. The person now will start to experience viral pneumonia and eventually, acute respiratory distress which is the most common cause of deaths among bird-related diseases.But this pandemic crisis can be pretty much prevented if certain precautions are practiced if everyone who is involved will cooperate with the measures that were given out by the authorities.
Through thorough surveillance, WHO (World Health Organization) supports in eliminating the disease. Through this, they can trace the source of infection and track down those who were affected by the flu. They will confirm instances of the disease and how many deaths were known. Once WHO officials find out the extent of the disease's proximity, they will contain the area under quarantine.
Those who are in the zone will not be allowed to go beyond it and those who wanted to enter will be prohibited. That is why the concerned officials must be responsible enough to bring in reliable data otherwise there would be miscalculations that can result to more chickens and people being affected instead of being saved.
With the word spread out all across the globe, the government is also having strict participation for the observance if there are any occurrences of the virus in their community. Residents are the one who have to be more watchful because they will be the one more affected.Their communication and participation is the most important tool to evacuate the presence of this disease and make raising chickens safer to both chickens and owners.
About the Author: Gargi Nath,a Professor in English in a reputed college in kolkata for the last 5 years having done masters and Phd.A keen creative author and have written many articles on numerous topics.Many of the articles are published regularly in newspapers and magazines.
Please visit my blog http://how-to-raise--chickens.blogspot.com for more information on chicken raising.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Penguins: an Overview
The popularity of penguins is at an all-time high. It is in large part due to the hit movie The March of the Penguins, that such interest in penguins has been raised recently. Until this movie was released in theatres, most humans never knew that penguins could be such a strong and determined animal. This brief article is to give you a short overview of penguin facts.
Penguins are unusual looking little birds, with their tuxedo-styled plumage, and waddling walk that makes many people think the birds are clumsy. For most of us, that perception changed when the movie The March of the Penguins came out and made us take notice of the Emperor penguin species. The movie tells a story of the amazing trials and hardships these emperor penguins have to go through just so they can have a family and be parents. If you are one of the few people that have yet to see this movie, you should check it out soon. It's humorous in some scenes, and can make you cry in other scenes. After watching the film, you'll have an entirely new respect and awareness for these birds.
Mostly, penguins have a limited habitat. They primarily are thought of as living in Antarctica, but there are a few penguin species that can be found on the cold coastal regions of South Africa, New Zealand, and Australia. There is also a kind of penguin that lives on the Galapagos Islands, and they are called Galapagos penguins. However, no penguins live in the Arctic.
The biggest kinds of penguins are the Emperor Penguins, which can get really big as an adult, and reach an average of 48 inches when full-grown. The smallest penguin is known as the Rockhopper penguin, which only reaches twelve inches in height on average.
Penguins do their hunting and feeding in the water. There isn't much food to be found on the frozen Antarctic ice, so they have to go underwater to find food. A standard penguin diet is made up of fish, squid or krill. A penguin is a great swimmer and can dive very deep underwater, holding its breath for several minutes underwater.
As The March of the Penguins movie revealed to us, Emperor penguins have a very unique and interesting breeding cycle. Penguins breed only once each year, and then only in specially chosen areas known as rookeries, which serve as breeding grounds for the penguins. Much like some other creatures, a penguin returns to the same rookery each year to breed. Penguins will sometimes travel 60 or 70 miles or more just to reach the rookery.
Once the penguins get to the breeding grounds (the rookeries), the male and female penguins will start flirting with each other and finally find their perfect match for a mate. The female penguin only lays one egg. After laying the egg, the female penguin carefully gives the egg to the male, who then holds it on top of his feet so it won't touch the ice. The male penguin hangs his big stomach over the egg to cover it and keep it warm from the high winds and freezing cold climate.
The male penguin will do this for nine consecutive weeks and will not eat food the entire time. During this nine weeks, the male will lose almost half of his body weight, and the mother penguin takes the opportunity to go out to sea and find food for herself, so she can to replenish her own resources, which were drained during her pregnancy and while laying the egg. The female will later return to the male penguin, usually just about the same time as the egg is due to hatch, and will trade places with the male penguin. He will then go back out to sea for himself and hunt for food to regain his strength.
Penguins are unusual looking little birds, with their tuxedo-styled plumage, and waddling walk that makes many people think the birds are clumsy. For most of us, that perception changed when the movie The March of the Penguins came out and made us take notice of the Emperor penguin species. The movie tells a story of the amazing trials and hardships these emperor penguins have to go through just so they can have a family and be parents. If you are one of the few people that have yet to see this movie, you should check it out soon. It's humorous in some scenes, and can make you cry in other scenes. After watching the film, you'll have an entirely new respect and awareness for these birds.
Mostly, penguins have a limited habitat. They primarily are thought of as living in Antarctica, but there are a few penguin species that can be found on the cold coastal regions of South Africa, New Zealand, and Australia. There is also a kind of penguin that lives on the Galapagos Islands, and they are called Galapagos penguins. However, no penguins live in the Arctic.
The biggest kinds of penguins are the Emperor Penguins, which can get really big as an adult, and reach an average of 48 inches when full-grown. The smallest penguin is known as the Rockhopper penguin, which only reaches twelve inches in height on average.
Penguins do their hunting and feeding in the water. There isn't much food to be found on the frozen Antarctic ice, so they have to go underwater to find food. A standard penguin diet is made up of fish, squid or krill. A penguin is a great swimmer and can dive very deep underwater, holding its breath for several minutes underwater.
As The March of the Penguins movie revealed to us, Emperor penguins have a very unique and interesting breeding cycle. Penguins breed only once each year, and then only in specially chosen areas known as rookeries, which serve as breeding grounds for the penguins. Much like some other creatures, a penguin returns to the same rookery each year to breed. Penguins will sometimes travel 60 or 70 miles or more just to reach the rookery.
Once the penguins get to the breeding grounds (the rookeries), the male and female penguins will start flirting with each other and finally find their perfect match for a mate. The female penguin only lays one egg. After laying the egg, the female penguin carefully gives the egg to the male, who then holds it on top of his feet so it won't touch the ice. The male penguin hangs his big stomach over the egg to cover it and keep it warm from the high winds and freezing cold climate.
The male penguin will do this for nine consecutive weeks and will not eat food the entire time. During this nine weeks, the male will lose almost half of his body weight, and the mother penguin takes the opportunity to go out to sea and find food for herself, so she can to replenish her own resources, which were drained during her pregnancy and while laying the egg. The female will later return to the male penguin, usually just about the same time as the egg is due to hatch, and will trade places with the male penguin. He will then go back out to sea for himself and hunt for food to regain his strength.
Thursday, October 9, 2008
assorted birds
This is the place for the "dedicated bird watcher" or "casual admirer". We have bird houses, feeders,
bird seed, bird baths, and much more. In addition to birds we can help you care for Bats,
Butterflies, Lady Bugs, Squirrels & even Toads.
Monday, October 6, 2008
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