Talk:Ornithology

Bird calls
Do we really need all of those links to bird calls? There already is a site in the links section that has bird calls on it, so maybe the individual links aren't necessary. Amerikestrel

just add them into a chart or tell me and i will do it(PM me) --Robotman09 04:20, 12 November 2009 (CET)

Bird species section
I've removed the 'species of birds' section, and I am replacing them with a list of (currently) red links to subpages about each order or family. I am copying the current text in that section below for use on these pages and for future reference. Amerikestrel 15:33, 2 September 2010 (EST)

Ducks, Geese, and Swans (Anatidae)
The family anatidae consists of medium-sized to large waterbirds, including ducks, geese, and swans. There are 14 species in this family on the Official Bird List. Most members of this family are distinguished by large, horizontally flattened bills, longs necks, short tales, and webbed feet.


 * Black-bellied Whistling Duck
 * The Black-bellied Whistling Duck makes a nest in hollow trees.
 * It often feeds nocturnally.
 * Mainly non-migratory.

Partridges, Grouse, Turkeys, and Old World Quail (Phasianidae)
Phasianidae is a family which includes terrestrial birds such as pheasants, grouse, and turkeys. Members of this family are generally plump with strong legs and short, broad wings.

Falconiformes
Birds of prey are birds that hunt for food primarily on the wing, using their keen senses, especially vision. They are defined as any bird that hunts other animals. Their talons and beaks tend to be relatively large, powerful and adapted for tearing and/or piercing flesh. In most cases, the females are considerably larger than the males.

The term "raptor" is derived from the Latin word "rapere" (meaning to seize or take by force) and may refer informally to all birds of prey, or specifically to the diurnal group.

The Following families are the major birds of prey:
 * 1) Accipitridae:Hawks,Ospreys,Eagles,Harriers,Kites
 * 2) Cathartidae:New World Vultures
 * 3) Falconidae:Falcons
 * 4) Strigidae:Owls
 * 5) Tyonidae:Barn Owls

Accipitridae
Eagles
 * Large Birds with long broad wings
 * Large nest on cliffs/trees
 * Hunt for small mammals in open areas uses a flat wing soar that distinguises it from turkey vultures

Hawks
 * -Accipiters- lighter build, smaller
 * -Buteos- heavier, larger, more "regal"
 * medium birds of prey
 * normally hunts from a concealed perch
 * Agile long tail feathers allow for steering in tight places
 * prey on small mammals and songbirds

Osprey
 * single raptor found worldwide
 * Eat mainly Fish
 * nest near water

Falcons

 * small to medium with long pointed wings
 * powerful hunters
 * Swift flyers
 * Take over other birds nests

New World Vultures

 * Carrion eaters
 * Common near dumps
 * No feathers on head

Tyrant Flycatchers (Tyrannidae)
Tyrannidae is a family of passerine birds found throughout North and South America. It is the largest family of birds on Earth, containing approximately 400 species. It is also the most diverse avian family.

Most tyrant flycatchers have relatively plain plumage, and many have an erectile crest.