Q. It's early morning -- the sun's not up
and it's still dark -- but I hear a flock of birds outside. What are they?
A. They could be Killdeer, a member of the Plover family of shorebirds.
Killdeer are most often found in suburban areas, not on the seashore. Look for them in
pastures, or any open areas with short grass or a gravel surface.
Q. Hummingbirds come to my feeder, but leave
within a minute or two. Why?
A. There could be several reasons. If the feeder is directly in the
scorching Florida sun, the nectar may reach a temperature that is unpleasant to the
hummer. Or, the nectar may have fermented in the heat. Check it every day. Also, be sure
you use cane sugar in your feeder. The hummers may refuse beet sugar.
Q. The American White Pelican has a 10-foot
wingspan. How many Ruby-throated Hummingbirds -- wing tip to wing tip -- might fit on the
pelican's outstretched wings?
A. About 36 if placed male, female, male, female. Eighteen males (38.5
mm) and 18 females (44.5 mm).
Q. What should I do with an injured or baby
bird?
A. For information on bird and wildlife rehabilitation, click here.
Q. How do I make hummingbird nectar for my
feeder?
A. Mix 1 part sugar to 3 parts water. Do not use honey or red
dye. Clean feeder every three to four days and keep it out of the sun. You may want to buy
extra feeders -- some for the yard and some for the dishwasher.
Q. How do you distinguish between a black
vulture and a turkey vulture?
A. Turkey vultures have red heads, trailing half of wings
silver and wings are held in a V in flight. The bird rocks side-to-side and rarely flaps
its wings. Turkey vultures also have a smaller head and a longer tail than the black
vulture.
Q. Can you suggest a good field guide?
A. Every birder has his or her favorite guides. No one guide
seems to be the authority. Choose one that shows various phases as well as flight and non
flight poses. (Check the reference page of the guide to see if it contains this
information).
Q. Where can I learn more about birding?
A. There are numerous birding magazines, field guides, books,
etc. The best way is to attend your local Audubon meetings and associated outings where
everyone is welcome. You don't need to be a member. For information about West Volusia
Audubon Society meetings, click here.
Q. If I see a Swallow-tailed
Kite carrying nesting materials, is this an
indication it is female?
A. No. Males carry the nesting materials; usually not the
females.
Q. When a male Wild Turkey gobbles in the springtime,
how far can he be heard?
A. One mile.
Q. How old are Northern
Bobwhite hatchlings before they leave the nest?
A. Bobwhite young are precocial, which means that hatchlings
are covered with down, and they are able to run about when newly hatched.
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