'" CARD 21

OSTRICH
~ ~ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - ~
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ORDER
Struthioniformes
FAMILY
Struthionidae
GENUS & SPECIES
Struthio came/us
The comical-looking ostrich is unique in many ways: it is the world's
largest bird, it can run faster than any other two-legged animal,
and it lays the largest eggs of any living creature.
KEY FACTS
SIZES
Height: Males, 6-9 ft.
Females, 5-6 ft.
Weight: Males, up to 350 lb.
Females, up to 200 lb.
BREEDING
Sexual maturity: Males, 3-4 years.
Females, 2 years.
Mating season: Varies.
Eggs: 10-12, cream or white.
Incubation: About 42 days.
Fledging: 4-5 months.
LIFESTYLE
Habit: Usually forms small groups.
Diet: Grasses, seeds, leaves, and
flowers. Very occasionally eats
locusts and grasshoppers.
lifespan: Over 40 years.
RELATED SPECIES
Nearest relatives are rheas,
cassowaries, kiwis, and emus-all
fl fghtless birds.
Range of the ostrich.
DISTRIBUTION
Widespread in the southern Sahara, Somalia, Ethiopia, and
parts of East Afri ca and t he Zambesi. Feral populations,
descendants of introduced birds, also exist in Aust ralia.
CONSERVATION
Numbers in southern Sahara are decreasing due to hunting.
In other places, populations are not t hreatened but are
declining as a result of human intrusion into habitats.
HOW THE OSTRICH RUNS FROM DANGER
Unique among birds, the ostrich has hoof-like feet (top right)
which help it to run rapidly away from danger. Powered by
strong leg muscles, it walks at a speed of 2 mph. When
alarmed, it will run at 20 mph. When frightened, an ostrich
can sprint at 45 mph (bottom right) .
MCMXCI IMP BV/ IMP INC WILDLIFE FACT FILETM PRINTED IN U.S.A. 0160200061 PACKET 6
Although the ostrich is native only to parts of Africa,
it is one of the world's best known birds.
Its bizarre appearance is characterized by a round,
dumpy body, spindly legs, and a long neck
extending up to a small head. Its large eyes
give it a quizzical-looking expression.
~ HABITS
Depending upon the
amount of grass and vegeta-
tion available, ostriches will
live in a variety of habitats,
including sparsely wooded
areas, savannah grasslands,
and semideserts.
Outside the breeding
~ FOOD &: FEEDING
The ostrich grazes on the
scarce but nutritious plant
shoots, leaves, flowers, and
seeds in its habitat. With the
use of its long neck, it
gathers food and stores it in
its throat, called a gullet,
before passing it down the
digestive tract.
Like many other birds, the
ostrich also swallows dirt,
sand, and small stones along
season, adult ostriches spend
their time in small, loose
groups of two to five birds.
Desert populations of
ostriches are more nomadic.
They travel great distances to
find food and to avoid
drought.
with its food. This material
grinds up the tough plant
fibers that accumulate in the
gizzard (the bird's second
stomach) and so helps
digestion.
While grazing, ostriches
often scan the horizon for a
sign of predators. Their long
necks and acute vision are
especially helpful for this
purpose.
DID YOU KNOW?
It is a common misconcep-
tion that ostriches bury their
heads in the sand. This belief
most likely came about
because, from a distance, the
tiny head of a grazing ostrich
may not be visible.
Ostriches in captivity have
swallowed an amazing variety
of objects. During its lifetime,
one ostrich swallowed a roll of
film, three gloves, a comb, a
bicycle valve, a pencil, a piece
of rope, several coins, part of a
gold necklace, a handkerchief,
and a clock.
One ostrich egg is equal in
volume to twenty hen's eggs.
Ostrich fossils found in India,
China, and southern Russia are
7 million years old.
~ OSTRICH &: MAN
Ostriches were once farmed for
their feathers, which were used
as hat plumes. Today they are
raised for their meat and skin.
They have also been trained to
scare other birds away from
crops and to round up sheep,
as well as to be ridden in races.
Ostriches were first intro-
duced into Australia in the
1860s. Many of the ostriches
being farmed escaped and
started breeding in the wild.
During breeding season, males
make several shallow depres-
sions, called nest scrapes, in
the ground within their terri-
tories. Each male pairs up with
a female-the major hen-
who chooses a nest scrape and
lays as many as twelve eggs.
Right: As night
fal/s, the male
takes over nest
duty. If he has
a large troop
of minor hens,
he may be
sitting on up to
forty eggs,
although only
those eggs at
the center of
the nest, laid
by the major
hen, are sure
to hatch.
Thereafter, two to five addi-
tional hens also lay their eggs
in the same nest.
Because of its large size, the
ostrich can incubate many
eggs. However, if there are
more eggs than she can
incubate, the major hen will
Left: Kicking
up sand as
they go,
ostriches swing
from side to
side as they
run across a
dry river bed.
roll some of the minor hens'
eggs to the edge of the nest,
where they may fail to hatch.
Soon after hatching, the
brood joins up with broods
from other nests, and the
large flock of chicks is guarded
by one or two adults.
left: Males
defend their
breeding
territories by
chasing away
intruders and
making
aggressive
displays,
flicking their
wings or
raising them in
the air.
"" CARD 22
MAGPIE
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~ O R D E R
~ Passerifarmes
,.FAMllY
"IIIIIIIIIII Carvidae
,. GENUS &: SPECIES
"IIIIIIIIIII Pica pica
The magpie's large size, distinctive coloring, and long tail
make it unmistakable. It is a clever bird and can survive
in a variety of habitats.
KEY FACTS
I ~ SIZES
'(':Ii length: 15-1 8 in.
Tail: Approximately 8-9 in.
Wingspan: 20 in.
Weight: 7-9 oz.
Iy l BREEDING
"'. Sexual maturity: 1 year.
Breeding season: April-June.
No. of broods: 1, but repeat
clutches are laid if eggs fail to hatch.
Eggs: Usually 5-7. Pale, creamy
blue or green, spotted brown.
Incubation: 1 7-1 8 days.
Fledging period: 3-4 weeks.
l y l liFESTYlE
"'. Habit: Solitary or in pairs.
Diet: Omnivorous, mainly insects.
Call: Loud ka-ka-ka.
RELATED SPECIES
Magpies are members of the crow
family. This family also includes
rooks, jackdaws, and ravens.
THE MAGPIE & ITS NEST
Birds of both
sexes have
distinctive
plumage and
long, wedge-
shaped tails.
MCMXCI IMP BV/IMP INC WILDLIFE FACT FILpM
Range of the magpie.
DISTRIBUTION
Much of Europe, including Great Britain, Asia, northwest
Africa, and western North America.
CONSERVATION
Numbers are probably increasing in all habitats, in spite of
some persecution by those who consider them a nuisance.
PRINTED IN U.SA
Magpie nests are large, cup-shaped
structures made of twigs and coated
with mud or dung. They are lined with
fine plant stems, grass, or hair-which
is sometimes pulled from living
animals.
us P 6001 12012 PACKET 12
At first sight, the magpie's distinctive plumage
looks black and white, but on closer inspection,
it appears a metallic green-blue color.
This striking bird is related to the plain, black crow,
with which it has in common a heavy bill,
keen eyesight, and sharp intelligence.
BIRDWATCH
Magpies' distinctive plum-
age and wedged-shaped tails
make them easy to identify.
They can be seen walking or
hopping across the ground
or pecking at the remains of
small animals on the road.
Listen for their loud rattling
call, and look for their big
nests in bushes or trees. The
nests are particularly visible
in the spring before the
leaves begin to grow.
FOOD &: FEEDING
The magpie is omnivorous-
it eats both meat and plants.
The magpie forages mainly on
the ground, where it feeds on
insects, slugs, snails, wood
lice, and spiders. It has also
been known to kill small mam-
mals and lizards. Farmers dis-
like the magpie because it
steals grain, seeds, berries,
and fruit.
In spring, the magpie will
systematically search hedges
and bushes for the nests of
other birds so it can steal and
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Left: Its long
tail and
iridescent
plumage make
the magpie
quite unmis-
takable.
Right: A
female magpie
returns to the
nest to feed her
hungry brood.
Below right: A
neatly woven
nest of twigs
holds the
magpie's clutch
of seven green,
mottled eggs.

The magpies' ideal habitat is a
combination of open ground
and scrub or woodland where
it can feed and find suitable
trees for nest building.
In the past, the magpie was
principally found on farmland
among thickly hedged mead-
eat the eggs and chicks. Small
mammals killed on the road
also quickly attract scaveng-
ing magpies, as do bird
feeders and garbage dumps.
The magpie uses its strong,
slightly curved bill to dig into
the soil for insects and to
break through the shells of
the eggs it steals.
Right: A scavenging magpie
discovers a dead rabbit. Carrion
(dead animals) commonly forms
part of the magpie's diet.
BREEDING
Mating season begins in late
fall, and both sexes attract
attention by raising and flut-
tering their wings.
Pairs may begin nesting in
the fall, although they cease
activity in harsh weather.
The dome-shaped nest is
built in a shrub or tree ap-
proximately 10 feet above
the ground. In tall trees, the
nest may be located even
higher.
Eggs are not usually laid
before April, and a clutch of
five to seven is normal. The
female takes sole responsibil-
ity for incubating the eggs
while the male stays busy
bringing her food.
ows. But as farmland has
disappeared, the bird has
moved into suburban areas.
In general, the magpie is
not migratory, since its diet is
variable enough to allow it to
survive year-round, despite
seasonal changes.
When they hatch, the chicks
are blind and helpless. The
female stays with them for a
week. After this time, both
adults share in caring for the
young until the chicks leave
the nest four weeks later.
MAGPIE &: MAN
The magpie has generally
been regarded with mixed
feelings. Some people admire
its handsome, rather exotic
appearance and bold behav-
ior, while others take offense
at its habit of stealing other
birds' eggs and scavenging

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for dead animals.
For many years, the mag-
pie has been killed in great
numbers by being trapped,
shot, and poisoned. Still, it is
clever at avoiding danger,
and magpies are increasingly
common in many backyards.
DID YOU KNOW?
Magpies often roost com-
munally for safety.
The great spotted cuckoo
lays its eggs in magpie nests.

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Magpies will ride on animals'
backs to feed on ticks.
Magpies will dig holes in
which to hide food. They also
steal bright objects.
The name magpie comes
from Mag, a nickname for
Margaret, meaning chatter-
box, and from pie or pied,
meaning black and white.
"'" CARD 23
RED KITE
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~
ORDER
Falconiformes
FAMILY
Accipitridae
GENUS &; SPECIES
Milvus milvus
The red kite has a distinctive gliding, circling flight.
Its deeply forked tail also makes it easily recognizable.
KEY FACTS
SIZES
Length: Male, 24-26 in. Females
larger than males.
Wingspan: 5-6 ft.
Weight: Male, 28-42 oz. Female,
35-56 oz.
BREEDING
Sexual maturity: 2-3 years.
Breeding season: April to July.
No. of eggs: 1-5 (usually 3).
Incubation: 28-30 days.
Fledging period: 45-50 days.
LIFESTYLE
Habit: Pair for life.
Diet: Includes small mammals and
birds, carrion, and fish.
lifespan: Typically 4-5 years, but
may live to 26 years in the wild
and up to 38 in captivity.
RELATED SPECIES
There are four species of North
American kite.
Range of the red kite.
DISTRIBUTION
Scattered thinly over Europe, parts of North Africa, Turkey,
and the Caucasus; much reduced or exterminated in parts of
northern and western Europe where it was once common.
CONSERVATION
Despite preservation efforts by conservationists, the red kite
remains endangered.
FEATURES OF THE RED KITE
Eggs: White with reddish brown
speckles. The clutch is usually two
or three eggs but can contain just
one or as many as five.
MCMXCI IMP BV/ IMP INC WILDLIFE FACT FILETM
mary (wingtip) feathers: Long
and spreading, for fine control
when hovering or gliding.
Wings: Long, slender, and angled
back from the midpoint. The front
edges are a rich chestnut brown
with white flashes toward the
~ _________ primary (wingtip) feathers.
Eyes: The red kite has excellent
vision, roughly eight times keener
than human eyesight.
Bill: Curved and painted. The kite
uses it to tear apart prey and
carrion.
" . I ~ - Tail: Long and deeply forked. Helps th
kite maintain balance and control its
direction.
PRINTED IN U.S.A.
0160200141 PACKET 14
The red kite is one of the most graceful
of all birds of prey. It soars on the wind with
its long, angled wings, while its forked tail
constantly stabilizes its flight. It has a varied diet
that includes small mammals and birds,
fish, and carrion.
DID YOU KNOW?
An old name for the kite,
glead or glede, refers to its
graceful, gliding fl ight.
The red kite sometimes
steals food from other birds,
including herons, crows, and
even other birds of prey such
as buzzards, goshawks, and
peregrine falcons . It chases
them in flight until they
eventually give in and drop
their food or prey.
During the English renais-
sance the red kite was pro-
tected by Londoners because
it fed on the refuse that ac-
cumulated in the streets. In
his play, The Winter's Tale,
Shakespeare refers to the
bird's unusual practice of
using clothes snatched from
the line as nest-building ma-
terial : "When the kite builds,
look to your lesser linen."
The last time a red kite was
seen in London was in 1859.

The red kite is similar in size to
a buzzard but is more slender.
Its plumage is mainly chestnut,
and it can be identified in flight
by its narrow, W-shaped wings
and long, deeply forked tail. Its
white head is marked with dark
streaks, and its wings have
white areas near the tips of the
underwings. The male and fe-
male red kites look very similar
to one another.
Left: Keen eyesight and a
hooked bill help make the
kite an expert predator.
FOOD & HUNTING
The red kite's habitat has di-
minished and, as a conse-
quence, it no longer relies
solely on scavenging in
garbage dumps for food . It
has adapted its diet to include
small mammals such as rabbits
and rodents, as well as inver-
tebrates, reptiles, and fish. It
also kills large birds and eats
carrion (flesh of dead animals).
The red kite's preference for
carrion may be because its
Red kites do not generally
migrate, though some young
birds may wander quite far
from their home range soon
after they have fledged (grown
feathers).
During a typical day a red
kite may wander six miles or
more from its roost site to
hunt and scavenge. In win-
ter red kites gather in small
groups at food sites and at
roosts. Most of the year they
are solitary, although in breed-
ing season they roost in pairs.
small, weak talons, are un-
suitable for subduing large,
struggling animals. But its tal-
ons are efficient for catching
smaller prey.
The red kite hovers effort-
in the air for hours
while it seeks out prey. It
generally glides at a height of
less than 65 feet. Once it
spots live prey, it dives down
and snatches the animal with
its outstretched talons.

Before mating in late March
or April, red kite pairs fly
together over the nest site,
which is usually found on the
outskirts of a forest . Some-
times a pair of kites grasp one
another's talons and remain
Above: Chicks
hatching. As
with most birds
of prey, the
eldest is much
larger than the
youngest. They
are ready to
leave the nest
after eight
weeks.
Left: This red
kite has found
some carrion,
a staple of its
diet.
The red kite's remarkable
ability to soar for several
hours at a ti me was the rea-
son behind the naming of
t he toy kite, whose maneu-
vers resemble t he move-
ments of the red kite in fli ght.
The species is somet imes
seen in areas populated by
man where it often nests
near or on buildi ngs. The kite
often makes use of t he aban-
doned nests of ot her birds of
locked together until separat-
ing just above the treetops.
Both mates build the nest,
which is located high up in a
tree. They construct the nest
of twigs and man-made ma-
terials, adding a soft lining of
sheep's wool.
The female incubates the
eggs, although the male may
help temporarily. The chicks
are creamy white and pale
brown and hatch at intervals.
They make their first flights at
48 days old.
RED KI TE & MAN
The red kite was common
throughout much of Europe
before 1800. It flourished in
both cities and the country-
side by scavenging on refuse.
The species had become
extinct in parts of its range at
the end of the 1800s because
of overhunting by gamekeep-
ers, trophy hunters, and egg
collectors. However, the red
kite is now steadily increasing
in numbers as a result of con-
servationists' activities.
prey, as well .
Li ke many birds of prey,
the red kite performs a mat-
ing display. Whi le ai rborne,
the male and female en-
twi ne their talons and free
fall in spirals, separating and
swooping skyward again just
before they would hit the
treetops.
The red kite is not ve ry
vocal. Its call resembles that
of the buzzard. ______ --1
EURASIAN STARLING
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~
ORDER
Passeriformes
FAMILY
Sturnidae
GENUS &: SPECIES
Sturnus vulgaris
The starling has become a common sight in urban areas. Huge
flocks of these birds can be seen circling in the sky before they
settle at their communal roosts.
KEY FACTS
SIZES
Length: 8
1
/2 in.
Wing length: 5 in.
Weight: 2
1
/2 -3 oz.
BREEDING
Sexual maturity: 1 year.
Breeding season: April to May.
Eggs: Usually 5-7.
No. of broods: Usually 1.
Incubation: 12-13 days.
Fledging period: 3 weeks.
LIFESTYLE
Habit: Sociable; forms large
roosting flocks.
Diet: Worms, insects, fruit,
berries, and seeds.
Lifespan: Generally up to 3 years.
Oldest known, 21 years.
RELATED SPECIES
The starling family (Sturnidae) has
108 species, including mynah
birds and ox peekers.
Range of the Eurasian starling.
DISTRIBUTION
Widespread in Europe and western Asia, spreading south in
winter. Introduced into North America, southern Africa,
and Australasia.
CONSERVATION
The starling has adapted well to changes in its habitat. Its
numbers have dropped recently in some regions, but it
remains abulildant.
FEATURES OF THE EURASIAN STARLING
Flying: Flies
quickly, in a
straight line.
Moves
erratically
when
chasing
insects.
Feeding:
Moves quickly
along
branches to
pick insects
from bark.
Eggs: Usually lays five to seven
white or pale blue eggs.
MCMXCI IMP BV/ IMP INC WILDLIFE FACT FILETM
site at beginn'
of breeding
season. Usually a
hole in a tree or
wall; often an old
woodpecker nest.
e main coloring is black inte persed wit
shiny purple, green, and blue. In summer thtl mate and
female have a bright yellow beak.
PRINTED IN U.S.A. 0160200271 PACKET 27
The Eurasian starling is a highly resourceful
and adaptable bird. Its adaptability has
enabled the bird to greatly expand its range
and numbers over the last 150 years,
during a time when many other bird species
have suffered a serious decline from
loss of habitat.

Although the starling is still fre-
quently seen in its wild habitats,
such as woodlands, it is now
most closely associated with hu-
man settlement. It is a common
species, both on farmland pas-
tures and in the hearts of cities in
many parts of the world.
Sociable by nature, starlings
feed and roost in noisy, active
flocks, and they often nest in
loose colonies. On winter eve-
nings, many thousands of the
birds flock into cities to roost.
They crowd among park trees or
along building ledges, often
struggling with one another for
the best perches. Roosting birds
benefit from the slightly higher
temperatures and the shelter
from wind that are available in
the cities.
Their fairly long, pointed wings
make the starlings strong fliers.
This enables many starlings to
migrate south, away from the
harsh winters of their range.
BI RDWATCH
Starl ings commonly breed in
Apri l and May throughout
the temperate areas of their
range. Their numbers swell
in winter when migrant birds
arrive from northern habitats.
The starl ings may gather in
Left: Although
considered
pests, starlings
have been
successfully
introduced in
many parts of
the world.
Right: A stone
wall is an
excellent site
for a nest.
Below: A pile
of rotten apples
provides a
good meal for
a group of
starlings.
FOOD &: FEEDING
The starling is flexible in its feed-
ing habits. It takes advantage of
a wide range of food items that
it finds in a variety of places. In
the country, the starling will feed
on seeds and berries, as well as
on a variety of insects found in
pastureland, such as beetles and
concentrations of up to a mil-
lion bi rds. Look for their many
droppings; watch for the
massing flocks at dusk; and
listen for the chorus of chat-
teri ng that is the starl ing'S
unmistakable cal l.

The large flocks of starlings
tend to break up for the
spring nesting season, but the
worms. It also chases insects in
flight. Starlings in the city are at-
tracted to food put out in bird
feeders.
Many city-roosting birds feed in
the surrounding country. Waves
of birds spread out from the city
at dawn. Each bird often heads
for a regular feeding site that
may be several miles from town.
The starlings return before
dusk, forming ever-larger
groups as they move in stages
back toward the city. The in-
coming birds concentrate into
a spiralling cloud. The whole
flock twists and turns in the air
for up to an hour before the
birds settle for the night.
non-breeding birds may con-
tinue to roost communally.
Breeding pairs select nest sites
and establish their territories.
In the countryside, nest holes
are usually in trees or rocks,
but urban birds find holes in
buildings, often under the
eaves of roofs or in drainpipes.
The nest itself is a bulky cup of
dry vegetation, lined with
grass, moss, feathers, and a
variety of man-made items
such as cloth, string, ribbon,
paper, and cigarette butts.
Right: After
feeding in the
country,
starlings gather
in large flocks
before flying
back to their
roosts in cities
and towns at
dusk.
STARLING &: MAN
Starlings are unpopular with
people because they soil build-
ings and trees with their drop-
pings. In one city, the starlings'
droppings killed trees, coated
paths and picnic tables, and cre-
ated such a foul odor that some
park areas were fenced off. Farm-
ers also consider the birds to be
DID YOU KNOW?
The starling mimics the calls
of other birds, and of man-
made sounds, such as whistles
and ringing telephones.
Dense roosting flocks of star-
lings often break tree branches,
and small trees have been
known to fall under the birds'
combined weight
Because starlings eat insect
pests, they are welcome in
some farming regions. Nest
boxes are provided for them
in parts of the Soviet Union
and New Zealand.
The starling population has
recently declined in parts of
Europe and the United
States-probably because
there are now fewer cattle
pastures.
The female lays her eggs at
daily intervals. She does most
of the incubation. The chicks
are featherless at birth.
pests because they cause dam-
age to some crops. But starlings
actually do some good by eat-
ing many agricultural pests.
City authorities and farmers
sometimes use flashing lights
and recordings of distress calls
to drive away the flocks, often
with little success.
"'" CARD 25
COMMON KINGFISHER
~ ~ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - ~
.. ORDER
'IIIIIIIIIII Coraciiformes
FAMILY
Alcedinidae
GENUS & SPECIES
Alcedo atthis
The common kingfisher spends much of its time diving from the
trees to catch fish underwater--yet, amazingly, it cannot swim.
KEY FACTS
SIZES
Length: 6-7 in. Beak, 1 in.
Wingspan: lOin.
Weight: 1 oz .
BREEDING
Sexual maturity: 1 year.
Breeding season: May-September.
No. of broods: 1-2.
Eggs: White, 6-7 in clutch.
Incubation: 19-21 days.
Fledging period: 23-27 days.
LIFESTYLE
Habit: Solitary, except during
breeding season.
Resident Summer only Winter only
DISTRIBUTION Diet: Small fish, crustaceans, frogs,
aquatic and land-dwelling insects.
Lifespan: Average 2 years.
RELATED SPECIES
The common kingfisher is found throughout most of Europe
and southern Asia, extending to the tip of North Africa and
east to Japan and the Solomon Islands.
CONSERVATION
There are 86 species of kingfisher in
temperate and tropical countries
worldwide, including the Australian
kookaburra.
Worldwide numbers are declining, due mainly to pollution
and habitat loss. Kingfishers are fully protected in most
European countries.
MCMXCI IMP BV/IMP INC WILDLIFE FACT FILETM
Kingfishers
usually excavate
their nest site in a
sheer bank above
the water, where
they are safe from
such predators as
weasels. The
tunnel has a
chamber at the
end.
PRINTED IN U.S.A
The eggs are laid
directly on the floor of
the tunnel and both
adults incubate them for
3 weeks. The chicks are
fed for up to 4 weeks on
small whole fish. The
young squirt their
droppings down the
tunnel until the
droppings eventually
begi n to ooze from the
entrance.
us P 6001 12010 PACKET 10
The attractive kingfisher is splendidly
adapted for survival along the riverbank.
Its brilliant blue-green feathers act as excellent
camouflage as it flies low and fast over the
water in search of fish.

Kingfishers are found along
the banks of clear, shallow
waterways in areas that are
sheltered from wind and
waves. The kingfisher must
live near waters that are
unpolluted and that support
a large number of fish. The
birds prefer to live near tree-
lined banks, where there are
plenty of overhangs from
which to spot prey.
Many kingfishers in Europe
remain in one location year-
round, but freezing weather
occasionally forces them to
move in search of open wa-
ter. Consequently, kingfishers
are often found on the coasts
in winter.
Left: Poised on
its fishing post,
a kingfisher
waits patiently
for a fish to
swim within
striking
distance.
Right: An
adult king-
fisher dives to
catch a fish.
The bird draws
: its wings back
and leads with
its bill.


Despite their bri ght coloring,
kingfishers are not easy birds
to spot. Fort unately they
have high-pit ched, distinc-
t ive calls. In t he breeding
I &: HUNTING
f ish headfirst so that they kingfisher s consists
DI D YOU KNOW?
An Aust ralian relative of the
kingfisher, the kookaburra,
lives in wooded country
where it feeds on insects,
lizards, and other small
animals.

do not choke on t he fins or mainly of small fish such as
spines.
A family of six young com-
mon kingfishers will con-
sume approximately 100
fish a day.
minnows and sticklebacks. The
bird searches for its prey from
a perch that is often as high as
10 feet above the surface of
the water. When it has located
a fish, it dives almost vertically

Kingfishers nest in burrows
season, kingfishers can be excavated in the firm soil of a
found burrowing near ri vers I waterside bank. If the nest site
with sheer, sandy cliffs. They has not been fully dug out,
al so inhabit t he banks of la:J es both mates will fly at the
and f looded gravel pits. bank, beak first, until a small
into the water with its wings
f olded against its body.
After catching the prey, the
bird rises to the surface of the
water and then flies off to a
perch. There it hits the fish
against a branch to subdue it
before swallowing it whole.
hole has been chiseled out.
Once this is done, the birds
will further enlarge the tunnel
by shoveling out the soil with
their feet.
The male attracts a female
into the burrow, where he
brings her food. He does this
by crouching in front of her,
with drooping wings, and
stretching forward to offer her
the fish. This courtship feeding
provides the female with
nourishment while she lays
her eggs.
Right: Born
featherless, the
newly hatched
young huddle
together for
warmth in the
nest chamber.
Both adults
incubate and
care for the
young.
Both adults share the task
of incubating the six to se-
ven young, which are born
without feathers. At first, the
chicks take turns to receive
food, each going to the back
of the line once it has been
fed; but as the chicks grow,
competition for food
becomes fierce.
The parents must hunt
constantly in order to
provide enough food for
their growing young. After
nearly four weeks, the chicks
leave the nest and must
quickly learn to defend
themselves. The parents
often produce a second
brood before the summer
Left: After a
successful
hunting trip,
an adult bird
returns with a
fish to the
bankside nest
hole for the
hungry chicks
inside. The
presence of
young can be
confirmed by
the droppings
oozing from
the tunnel
entrance.
"" CARD 26
COMMON BEE EATER

ORDER
Coraciiformes
FAMILY
Meropidae
GENUS &: SPECIES
Merops apiaster
The common bee eater has a voracious appetite for flying insects.
It breeds in southern Europe in summer and migrates
in September to spend the winter in Africa.
KEY FACTS
SIZES
Length: 10 in.
Weight: About 2 oz.
BREEDING
Sexual maturity: 1-2 years.
No. of broods: 1 per year.
Breeding season: May to June.
Eggs: White, 4-7 per clutch, rarely
more than 10.
Incubation period: 22-24 days.
Fledging period: 21-24 days.
LIFESTYLE
Call: Bell-like sound in flight.
Habit: Sociable, nests in colonies.
Diet: Flying insects, including
bees, wasps, dragonflies, beetles,
and butterflies.
lifespan: Not known.
RELATED SPECIES
Related to 23 other species of bee
eater, which live mainly in the
tropics, including the carmine bee
eater, Merops nubicus.
Range of the common bee eater.
DISTRIBUTION
Throughout southern and southeastern Europe in summer.
Found in t ropical regions of Africa in winter. Also breeds in
North Africa and southern Asia.
CONSERVATION
Conservation measures do not appear to be necessary at the
present time, although many birds are killed every year by
bee keepers in Mediterranean countries.
BEE EATER

sect's stinger
against the
perch to tear
it out.
MCMXCI IMP BV/ IMP INC WILDLIFE FACT FILETM PRINTED IN U.S.A. 0160200141 PACKET 14
The common bee eater eats honeybees
as well as other insects. The bird has long
been regarded as a pest by beekeepers, but it
actually kills and eats many predators
of the honeybee, including hornets
and bee wolves.
~ HABITS
The common bee eater is a
sociable bird that nests in
large colonies containing hun-
dreds, sometimes thousands,
of birds. Within these colonies,
the birds form family groups
that include one or more
young, non-breeding birds
called helpers. The group
remains together during nest
building, incubation, and
hatching and often migrates
together.
In flight the bee eaters
form a huge flock that travels
at a considerable altitude.
Flocks of bee eaters work
together to protect their
communal nesting sites by
swooping down from the sky
to chase away predators such
as black kites.
DID YOU KNOW?
The common bee eater is
also known as the European
bee eater.
The Australian bee eater has
such brilliantly colored plum-
age that it is sometimes called
the rainbow bird.
In Africa some species of bee
eater make nest chambers in
aardvarks' burrows.
A single common bee eater
must catch the equivalent of
225 bee-sized insects every
day to feed itself and its
Left: Bee eaters have favorite
feeding perches to which they
return regularly.
~ FOOD &: FEEDING
The common bee eater feeds
on flying insects such as bees,
wasps, dragonflies, beetles,
and butterflies. Still, the bee
eater prefers to eat honeybees
when they are available.
The bee eater hunts by
perching on a fence post, tele-
phone wire, or tree branch for
young.
Most species of bee eater
form family groups of male,
female, and young non-
breeding birds. The white-
throated bee eater's family
group may have as many as
12 members.
Tropical species of bee
eater, such as the white-
fronted and red-throated bee
eaters of Africa, have some of
the most complex bird
societies known to man.
Right: The common bee eater is
ready to mate at about 18
months of age.
a good vantage point. It
rapidly scans the area then
flies out and attacks passing
insects. The bee eater later
coughs up indigestible parts
of its prey in the form of a
pellet.
Below: The bee eater's nest is
usually made in a steep bank.
~ BREEDING
The male and female bee eat-
ers work together to dig a nest
burrow in sandy ground close
to water and feeding perches.
Aided by the helper birds, they
use their bills and feet to
excavate a tunnel 3 to 10 feet
long. The tunnel is parallel to
the ground when it is dug in a
bank, but in flat ground it
slopes down at an angle.
The male and female defend
their burrow by making ag-
gressive gestures and chasing
away rival males and other
nesting pairs. Four to seven
eggs are laid at intervals of
one to two days.
Both parents take turns
incubating the eggs, although
the female usually spends the
night sitting on the eggs
while the male roosts in a
nearby tree. The male feeds
the female, during the incu-
bation period.
The eggs hatch at intervals,
and the newborn are blind,
naked, and pink. The chicks
are fed insects by the parents
and helpers and open their
eyes after a week.
After fledging, the chicks,
parents, and helpers stay in
the burrow for several days
before moving to a roost on
a nearby tree. The chicks stay
close to their parents for
approximately six weeks,
depending on them for food
until they are skilled enough
to catch their own.
"" CARD 27
EUROPEAN ROBIN
~ ~ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - ~
.. ORDER
"'IIIIIIIIIII Passeriformes
"'IIIIIIIIIIII GENUS & SPECIES
"'IIIIIIIIIII Erithacus rubecula
The chirpy red-breasted European robin is found widely throughout
its range. Although it has a red breast similar to an
American robin s, it is a much smaller bird.
KEY FACTS
SIZES
Length: 5 in.
Wingspan: lOin.
Weight: 10 oz.
BREEDING
Sexual maturity: 1 year old.
Breeding season: April-June.
No. of broods: 2-3.
Eggs: 5-7 per clutch.
Incubation: 1 3-14 days.
Fledging period: 12-15 days.
LIFESTYLE
Habit: Form pairs for breeding
season only.
Diet: Insects, worms, berries, seeds.
Lifespan: Oldest known bird lived
13 years. Usually live for a few years
only.
RELATED SPECIES
Every continent has birds called
robin, but only the Japanese and
Ryukyu robins are closely related.
IDENTIFICATION GUIDE
Juvenile robins have spotted chests, as
the pale feathers have brown tips. Within
the first 2 months after fledging, the birds
undergo their first molt.'.l\11 body feathers
are replaced, so the bird is left with-its first
adult plumage. Wing and taiJ feathers are
molted the following year. -
MCMXCI IMP BV/ IMP INC WILDLIFE FACT FILETM
Range of the European robin.
DISTRIBUTION
Allover Europe, except for parts of the Mediterranean coast
and northern Scandinavia. Also found in the Azores, Canary
Islands, and parts of North Africa. Extends eastward into
central Russia, Turkey, and Iran.
CONSERVATION
Stable population. Loss of woodland has not affected
numbers because robins have adapted to other habitats.
Eggs white,
lightly spotted
~ ~ ~ ! ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ! ~ w i t h red.
PRINTED IN U.S.A 0160200071 PACKET 7
The robin is mainly found in woodlands
throughout much of Europe, but in England,
robins often become tame. Still, robins
are fiercely aggressive defenders of
their established territories.
~ HABITAT
Throughout their territory,
robins may be found in all
natural woodlands, where
they nest and breed in the
dense layer of undergrowth.
In England, where in-
creased agriculture has
~ BREEDING
A robin makes its territory
known by perching in a
visible place and singing
loudly. This happens in
spring, when it is establish-
ing its home territory and
trying to attract a mate.
When a partner has been
chosen, the male robin
strengthens the bond by
bringing the female food.
She builds the nest, conceal-
ing it in a low bank among
thick vegetation. The domed
structure is built with leaves
resulted in the large-scale
clearing of trees, robins will
also be found at the edge of
woodlands and in hedges.
They have adapted, too, to
living in backyards and parks
where they eat from feeders.
and lined with plant roots and
hair. In backyards and near
houses, robins will often build
their nests on ledges inside
porches and sheds. They are
also attracted to nest boxes
put in a protected place.
Mating occurs primarily
from April to June, although
some robins nest as early as
January. Once the female has
laid her eggs, she stays in the
nest for 11-14 days, incubat-
ing them. During this time,
the male brings her food,
Above: Feeding hungry young
keeps both parents busy.
Left: Robins nest close to areas
inhabited by man.
Right: A robin puffs up its feathers
to help keep warm.
sometimes as often as 3 times
an hour.
Both parents share the task
of raising the young. After 3
weeks, the young have
learned to fly and become in-
dependent. Adult birds that
mate early in the season are
more likely to have a second
or third brood, and it is not
uncommon for the female to
be incubating the second
clutch while the male contin-
ues to look after the first
fledglings.
l\II BIRDWATCH
Robins are frequent visitors to
backyards, where they like to
hunt in the bare soil. They can
also be found among rose
beds and shrubbery. They are
always attracted to well-
stocked bird feeders that
contain bits of cheese and
other fatty foods . Some
people have found that t hese
friendly bi rds will take food
from thei r hands. Still, it is
important not to startl e the
birds or encourage them to
become tootame if there are
cats in the vicinity.
Robins will nest in artificial
sites, such as an old pan
wedged sideways in a bush,
or a nest box t hat has a large
opening in the front.
L
~ SONG
All birds, robins included, sing
mainly to mark territory and
to attract a mate, especially in
spring during the breeding
season. They will sing in the
middle of the night if near a
bright light. Early morning
song is usually associated with
establishing territory.
Unlike other birds, robins
sing year-round. They are
somewhat quieter in late
~ ~ - - - - ~ ~ ~ ~ - - - - r summer when they are
I DID YOU KNOW?
Nearly three-quarters .of
young robins die before they
are a year old. They are
usually caught by predators
or are unable to fend for
themselves.
British mailmen used to be
called robins because of the
red uniforms they wore.
It is mainly in England that
robins have a close associa-
tion with man. Elsewhere in
Europe, they are shot by the
thousands for food or sport.
The American robin is also a
thrush.
molting. At this time and
throughout the fall, young
birds and adults of both sexes
sing a quieter, more melan-
choly song which serves to
mark their winter territory.
Males begin to sing the
song associated with breeding
as early as December.
SHORT-EARED OWL
ORDER
Strigifarmes
FAMILY
Strigidae
GENUS & SPECIES
Asia flammeus
The short-eared owl lives in the open spaces of marshes
and fields, although it also frequents evergreen forests
where it can find a plentiful supply of mice.
KEY FACTS
SIZES
Length: About 1 ft.
Weight: 10-12 oz.
Wingspan: 3-3
1
/2 ft.
BREEDING
Sexual maturity: 1 year.
Breeding season: April to June.
Eggs: 4-10, white.
Incubation period: 24-28 days.
Fledging: 24-27 days.
LIFESTYLE
Habit: Single or in pairs.
Diet: Mainly mice, but also other
small rodents.
Call: High-pitched cry when
disturbed. Male hoots when
courting. Young hisses.
RELATED SPECIES
The short-eared owl often shares
its range with the nocturnal long-
eared owl, Asia atus.
THE SHORT-EARED
OWL'S KEEN SENSES
i0MCMXCIIMP BV/ IMP INC WILDLIFE FACT FILETM
Range of the short-eared owl.
DISTRIBUTION
The short-eared owl breeds in the northern United States,
South America, northern Europe, and Asia. It winters in the
southern United States, southern Europe, sub-Saharan Africa,
India, and southern Asia.
CONSERVATION
It is in no danger of extinction. When mice are scarce, the
population drops, but it eventually rises again.
pigeon's vision: Eyes have 340
-..: .
I : E.yeS1'ace
forward and have about
110 degrees of vision. The
fields of both eyes overlap
and have 70 degrees of
binocularvisipn. Within
this field the owl can
accu,ratel y pinpoint
degree eye) vision-
good for detecting p rs-but only
limited binocular eyes) vision.
PRINTED IN U.S.A. 0160200321 PACKET 32
The short-eared owl has bold
yel/ow eyes that give it a fierce-
looking expression as it searches the ground
from its observation post for signs of prey.
Breeding pairs migrate to warmer climates
during the winter.
In flight the short-eared owl
hovers as it searches for
food-much as a hawk does.
It can also be seen gliding
and weaving through the air
with its wings forming a
narrow V-shape.
If cornered on the ground,
the owl tries to scare off its
enemy by spreading its wings
and ruffling its feathers. This
way, the owl looks much
larger than it really is. This
threat behavior is typical of
several ground-nesting birds.
Some short-eared owls
migrate to the warmer parts
of their range for the winter
and do not return to cooler
climates until the start of
breeding season.
Above: 80th male and female
short-eared owls have the same
attractive, brown-barred plumage.
The short-eared owl is
common in its range, but
finding one can be diffi-
cult. This sharp-eyed bird
inhabi ts open ground and
can qui ckly spot a bi rd-
watcher.
The best t ime to see one
is during breeding season
when adults descend to the
ground at regular intervals
to feed their young.
It is easy to mistake an
owlet on the ground for an
abandoned bi rd; it should
be left alone.
~ BREEDING
The short-eared owl's breed-
ing season begins in April.
During this period the male
makes circling display flights
over the breeding territory
while singing his courtship
song to attract a female.
After mating both birds
scrape out a hollow on the
ground and line it with dry
plants. The female lays the
eggs at two-day intervals and
incubates each one for 24 to
28 days, relying on her mate
to bring her food. The young
hatch with their eyes closed.
They are covered with a white
down that soon changes to a
light beige color.
Both parents feed the new
chicks. They fiercely defend
their brood against intruders.
The chicks fledge at 24 to 27
days, but stay within the nest
area until they can fly well.
~ FOOD & HUNTING
The short-eared owl hunts
during the daytime. Search-
ing the ground below for
small mammals such as mice,
the owl relies upon its excel-
lent sight and hearing to
locate prey. When not
hunting from the air, the owl
sits silently on a lookout post
waiting and watching.
Once the owl locates prey it
swoops down and seizes the
victim in its talons. The owl
swallows its prey headfirst
and whole while on the
ground. Then it regurgitates
(spits up) the bones and fur in
the form of a pellet.
Right: Mice are a major part of the
short-eared owl's diet. Each bird
eats several thousand a year.
Above: Each owlet is two days
older than the last, with one egg
yet to hatch.
When food is plentiful, the
parents may raise a second
brood in the same year.
These offspring are ready to
breed the following spring.
DID YOU KNOW?
The short "ears" that give
this owl its name are actually
tufts of tiny feathers.
One migrating short-eared
owl traveled over 2,000 miles
from Tunisia to Arkhangelsk
on the northern coast of
the Soviet Union-the
longest recorded journey
by this species.
GREAT CORMORANT
~ - - - - - - -
... ORDER
~ Pelicaniformes
FAMILY
Phalacrocoracidae
GENUS 8 SPECIES
Phalacrocorax carbo
'" CARD 29 1
The great cormorant is well adapted for catching fish.
With its sleek shape, long, serrated bill, and powerful webbed feet,
it is ideally suited for its marine environment.
KEY FACTS
SIZES
Length: 30-40 in.
Wingspan: 50-60 in .
Weight: 4-8 lb.; males heavier.
BREEDING
Sexual maturity: 4-5 years.
Breeding season: Lays eggs from
late March to June.
No. of broods: 1 .
Eggs: 3-4, pale blue or greenish.
Incubation: 28-31 days.
Fledging period: About 50 days.
LIFESTYLE
Habit: Solitary or in loose flocks;
forms breeding colonies.
Diet: Mostly fish.
Lifespan: Oldest known, 20 years.
RELATED SPECIES
There are 32 species of cormorants
worldwide, ranging from cool
temperate to tropical regions.
Range of the great cormorant.
DISTRIBUTION
Both coasts of the North Atlantic, southeast and northern
Europe, east and southern Africa, southern and east Asia,
parts of central Asia, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand.
CONSERVATION
Numbers have increased in some areas, but declined in
others. Breeding colonies have long been persecuted by
~ h e r m e n because of the bird's depletion of fishing stocks.
SPECIAL ADAPTATIONS OF THE GREAT CORMORANT
Tail: The
cormorant 's
broad tail is
used like a
rudder to guide
it as it swims
underwater.
Feet: Four
webbed toes
are set close
together to give
the bird extra
power under-
water.
Although the cormorant spends much of its time
underwater, it remains a mystery as to why its
feathers are not waterproof, as are those of most
other water birds.
Diving: The cormorant folds its wings
to its body and drives forward with
powerful strokes from its webbed feet.
Bill: When the
cormorant
catches its prey,
the sharp,
serrated
mandibles (jaw
bones) grip the
fish tightly.
MCMXCI IMP BV/IMP INC WILDLIFE FACT FILpM PRINTED IN U.S.A. 0160200111 PACKET 11
The great cormorant is the largest and
most widely distributed species of cormorant,
found on five continents. Though primarily a bird
of inshore coastal waters, it often appears
around rivers and lakes, and in some regions,
it even breeds inland.
FOOD & HUNTING
The great cormorant's pri-
mary feeding grounds are
shallow, inshore waters,
where the bird can dive to
the seabed to catch prey.
Fish are its main food, and it
is well adapted to hunt and
catch them.
The great cormorant dives
for food from the water's
surface, arching its body in a
graceful curve and disap-
pearing silently beneath the
waves. It swims swiftly
underwater, using its broad
tail as a rudder and relying
on its strong thigh muscles
and webbed feet for propul-
sion. Great cormorants can
stay submerged for up to 60
seconds, re-emerging many
yards from the place where
they entered the water.
When it draws close to its
prey, the bird snaps its bill
shut, gripping the struggling
fish tightly in its serrated jaws.
It brings most of its prey to
the surface before swallowing
it. The great cormorant feeds
on crab, flatfish, cod, whiting,
wrasse, and sand eel, caught
at depths of up to 30 feet. It
will also eat an occasional
frog, duckling, or water rat at
inland sites.
HABITS
Left: During
the breeding
season, the
male raises
his wings to
display his
white flank to
the female.
Below: The
cormorant
does not
produce any
waterproofing
oil for its
feathers, so
after it dives, it
must spread its
wings to allow
them to dry.
The seasonal habits of the great
cormorant vary considerably
over the bird's vast range. In
many areas, it is sedentary,
wintering and breeding in the
same location. Others move
from inland sites to coastal
breeding grounds. Some popu-
lations-such as those from the
Baltic- migrate thousands of
miles south to the Mediterra-
nean. They often form flocks at
migration, but they are gener-

The great cormorant nests at
both coastal and inland sites,
choosing cliffs, trees, reed beds,
and sometimes bare ground.
Its breeding colonies are usu-
ally small, but sometimes in-
clude as many as 2,000 pairs.
The male attracts a female
ally solitary by nature except
during breeding season.
The great cormorant is
often seen perching on rock
reefs, trees, sea walls, buoys,
and boats. It characteristi-
cally perches with its wings
outstretched, most likely to
dry its feathers and warm its
body after a dive. Its webbed
feet, which propel it through
water, are unsuitable for use
on dry land.
by raising and lowering his
wings, revealing a conspicu-
ous white patch on his flank.
The nest itself is a mound of
sticks and dried seaweed that
measures approximately three
feet across. Both parents in-
cubate the clutch of three to
Left: Cliffs are
a common
nesting site for
the cormorant.
BIRDWATCH
In North Ameri ca, the great
cormorant nests in coastal
areas rangi ng from southern
Greenland to Nova Scotia.
It winters as far south as
Flori da.
It can be disti nguished
from t he more common
double-crested cormorant
by its white fla nk feathers
and bright t hroat markings.
Great cormorants are often
seen perched on buoys, jet-
t ies, and boats.
four eggs and feed the chicks.
Newly hatched nestlings take
regurgitated food from their
parents, but later they eat sol-
id food. Though they fledge
at about two months, the
young return to the nest site
to feed for another six weeks.
Below: The chicks pester the
adult for food by pecking at its
bill until it regurgitates the catch
into its throat.
DID YOU KNOW?
Great cormorants have
been known to catch low-
flying swallows over the
water.
Great cormorants some-
times swim just below the
water's surface, leaving only
the head and neck exposed.
In parts of Asia, people use
cormorants to catch fish.
They tie the birds to boats
with long leads and allow
them to hunt underwater. A
ring placed around the birds'
throats prevent them from
swallowing the fish.
""" CARD 30
BROWN PELICAN
~ ~ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - ~
~
ORDER
Steganopodes
FAMILY
Pelecanidae
GENUS Ex SPECIES
Pelecanus occidentalis
With its enormous wingspan, huge beak, and habit of plunging into
the water from great heights, the brown pelican is one of the most
dramatic birds of the North American coast.
KEY FACTS
SIZES
Length: 3 ft.
Wingspan: 6 ft .
Weight: 7 lb.
BREEDING
Sexual maturity: 2-3 years.
Breeding season: Varies with
location, but during the spring on
the West Coast
No. of broods: 1 .
Eggs: Usually 3; dull white color.
Incubation: About 4 weeks.
Fledging period: About 9 weeks.
LIFESTYLE Range of the brown pelican.
DISTRIBUTION
Habit: Social; breeds in colonies.
Diet: Mainly fish, occasionally
carrion.
Lifespan: Probably 15-25 years.
On the west coasts of California and Mexico, extending east
to the Carolinas.
CONSERVATION
RELATED SPECIES
There are 8 species of pelican. All
Although protected in the United States, numbers declined
in the 1950s and 1960s due to the deadly effects of pesti-
are distributed along coasts cides.
washed by warm temperate seas.
THE BROWN PELICAN'S DIVE
When a pelican spots its prey from its perch above the water, it
launches itself and drops down in a vertical line, its wings
partly closed and its beak and head pointed at the target. As it
enters the water, its wings are stretched back behind it like a
paper airplane. The water breaks the momentum of the dive,
which allows the bird to engulf the fish in its open pouch before
bobbing back up to the surface.
The pelican's most distinctive feature, its uge
beak, has a flattened upper part. The large
bottom pouch can be opened to scoop up 2
gallons of water.
DMCMXCI IMP BV/ IMP INC WILDLIFE FACT FILETM PRINTED IN U.S.A. 0160200081
The brown pelican has a very distinctive shape.
When it flies, it hunches up its neck
and rhythmically flaps its massive,
powerful wings.
~ HABITS
Brown pelicans inhabit the
rocks and cliffs in warm coastal
waters. They seldom venture
far inland, nor do they stray far
from the shoreline.
When they are not breeding,
pelicans gather in flocks of up
to fifty birds to roost and feed
together. During the breeding
season, the flocks become
larger. Often, they can be
seen flying in a V-formation
above the waves, following
the flight path of the leader.
~ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Left: A group
of pelicans
pauses
between dives.
Gulls may be
waiting to
steal what they
can from the
pelicans' next
catch.
Right: Pelicans
sometimes beat
their wings on
the water's
surface to
frighten the
fish into
schools.
~ BREEDING
Spring usually signals the start
of the breeding season, al-
though if fish stocks are low,
mating is delayed. Many birds
nest in shallow depressions on
the ground that they line with
feathers and surround by a wall
of soil. Some colonies nest in
trees, building structures of
reeds on stick platforms.
Both adults share in the
incubation of the eggs. The
chicks are naked when they
hatch, but grow an ample coat
of fluffy down within 2 weeks.
The parents feed their young
with regurgitated fish.
In the ground-nesting
colonies, youngsters gather in
groups when they are 6 weeks
old, where they wait to be fed
by their parents. The adults
seem to recognize and feed
only their own young, beating
off the other chicks that
approach them for food. The
young continue to be fed by
their parents until they learn to
fish for themselves.
~ FOOD &; FEEDING
Brown pelicans feed almost
entirely on fish, which they
catch by diving from the air,
sometimes from heights of up
to 65 feet.
Plunging into the sea, the
bird scoops up a beakful of
water and fish. Too heavy to
fly, it then has to sit on the
waters' surface and allow the
water to drain from its bulging
pouch before it can swallow
the fish.
Occasionally, brown pelicans
also feed on carrion, and they
have been known to eat the
live young of their breeding
neighbors.
Above and
left: Many
pelicans make
a simple nest
on the ground.
Others build
messy struc-
tures in trees.
Young are
often killed or
injured falling
from the
branches.
DID YOU KNOW?
The pel ican is among t he
largest of all living birds, but
the brown pelican is t he
smallest bird in the pel ican
family.
Pelicans use their pouches
only to catch fish, not t o
carry t hem, as this would
make them too front heavy
to fly properly. A pel ican can
scoop over 2 gallons of wat er
in its pouch at a ti me.
The sound of a diving
pelican hitting the water can
be heard half a mile away.
But a seri es of ai r pockets
beneath the skin of the
pel ican' s chest cushions the
force of the impact and
protects it against injury.
Many pelicans that live on
freshwater lakes feed by
working in groups. Fi rst they
force fi sh into a dense school
by beating their wings on the
water. Then, using t heir huge
beaks, they scoop t he fish
into their pouches.