Anting 🐜 is a behavior exhibited by some birds in which they allow ants 🐜 to crawl on their feathers and skin, or they actively apply ants, other insects, or substances ants secrete, to their feathers. They do this as part of their preening, or self-care, routine.

Anting is a curious behavior exhibited by a surprisingly wide range of birds – over 200 species across the globe are known to do it.

Anting is one of the most peculiar and fascinating behaviors observed in birds. Those that engage in anting display a curious interaction with ants and other insects. 🐜 This behavior has intrigued ornithologists and bird enthusiasts alike, offering a glimpse into the complex natural behaviors birds have developed to cope with their environments. 🐜

🐜 Anting typically occurs in two forms: active and passive. In active anting, a bird will pick up ants in its beak and then rub them onto its feathers. In passive anting, a bird will sit directly on an insect nest or move its body around on the ground where the bugs are present, allowing the insects to crawl through its feathers. 🐜 The majority of anting observations involve formic acid-bearing ants, which are believed to play a crucial role in this behavior.

The reasons why birds engage in anting are still not entirely understood by ornithologists, but several theories have been proposed. 🐜 One of the most accepted explanations is that anting helps birds to get rid of parasites and other skin irritants. Ants produce formic acid, a chemical that could potentially help control feather mites and lice. 🐜 By rubbing ants over their bodies, birds might be using the formic acid as a kind of natural pesticide.

Another theory suggests that anting could be a way for birds to soothe irritated skin, particularly during molting when new feathers are growing and old ones are being shed. 🐜 The formic acid might provide a form of relief from the discomfort associated with this process.

Anting may help to regulate a bird's preen oil production. 🐜 Preen oil, secreted from a gland near the base of the tail, keeps feathers waterproof and flexible.  🐜 The formic acid from the ants could stimulate the preen gland or even supplement the oil itself.

There’s also a thought that anting may play a role in the maintenance of a bird's plumage. 🐜 By allowing ants to crawl through their feathers, the ants might be helping to clean the birds, removing debris and possibly even adding a layer of protective substances via the ants' secretions. 🐜

Behaviorally, anting is quite a spectacle. 🐜 Some bird species appear to enter a trance-like state while anting, remaining still and allowing ants to work their way through their feathers for several minutes. The bird may be laying prone on the ground with feathers spread as if it is sunning, as shown in the above photos in this post. The below image of a Black Woodpecker shows the bird standing normally with ants crawling over the feathers. 🐜 Whatever the method, such behavior can be quite entertaining to watch, as birds seem to be completely absorbed in the process.

Interestingly, not all birds use ants for anting; some have been observed using other materials like cigarette butts, presumably for the chemicals they contain, or even snails and millipedes. 🐜🐜 This substitution suggests that the primary motivation behind anting might be related more broadly to chemical acquisition from various sources, not just ants. 🐜

Anting behavior varies widely among bird species and is most commonly seen in passerines, or perching birds. Among the well-documented anters 🐜 are species like the Blue Jay, European Starling, and American Crow. 🐜🐜 However, reports indicate that many other species across different families also engage in this behavior, highlighting its widespread nature but variable practice among avians.

Despite its oddity, anting is a significant aspect of avian behavior, pointing to the intricate ways birds interact with their environment to meet their physiological needs. 🐜 It serves as a reminder of the adaptive and sometimes unexpected nature of wildlife, sparking curiosity and wonder among those lucky enough to observe it. 🐜🐜🐜

The Black-capped Vireo, a small, striking species of songbird that once teetered on the brink of extinction, serves as a symbol of hope in the world of conservation. Its road to recovery showcases the power of targeted conservation efforts. In learning about the Black-capped Vireo, we can celebrate the continued survival of a species that once faced dire prospects.

Black-capped Vireos are notable as the only species of vireo to display sexual dimorphism, meaning males and females have a different appearance. Males can be identified by their distinctive black cap, which contrasts with their white underparts and greenish upper body. Females have a similar look but with more muted color differences.

Native to North America, the Black-capped Vireo breeds across parts of Oklahoma, Texas, and northern Mexico. There, it can be found in shrubby areas where it can find its preferred nesting sites.

By the late 20th century, Black-capped Vireo numbers had dwindled alarmingly, primarily due to habitat loss, grazing practices that altered their natural habitats, and the parasitism of their nests by the Brown-headed Cowbird.

The turning point for the Black-capped Vireo came with its listing as an endangered species, in 1987, which catalyzed a series of conservation actions aimed at reversing its decline. One of the first steps in this process was habitat restoration. By managing vegetation and controlling grazing, conservationists were able to recreate the brushy environments that are ideal for the vireo's breeding and feeding. These efforts provided the birds with the conditions they needed to rebuild their populations.

Another critical component of the Black-capped Vireo's recovery was the control of the Brown-headed Cowbird population throughout critical parts of their breeding range. Through a combination of trapping and monitoring, conservationists significantly reduced the number of cowbirds in areas critical to the vireo's survival. This action decreased the rate of parasitism in vireo nests, allowing more vireo chicks to hatch and reach maturity.

Public education and involvement have also played a vital role in the recovery of the Black-capped Vireo. By raising awareness about the bird's plight and the importance of conservation efforts, organizations and government agencies have garnered support for their initiatives. Volunteers have contributed to the recovery efforts by participating in bird counts and habitat restoration projects.

Thanks to the concerted conservation work, the Black-capped Vireo has made a remarkable comeback. In 2018 it was removed from the list of endangered and threatened wildlife due to these efforts.

However, the conservation journey for the Black-capped Vireo is not over. Continued efforts are necessary to ensure the Black-capped Vireo's long-term survival. Habitat preservation remains a critical factor, as does the need for ongoing management of cowbird populations to prevent them from undermining the vireo's recovery. The species is managed by state agencies in both Texas and Oklahoma. Of course, habitat changes due to climate change pose a continued threat to vireos and other species.

The story of the Black-capped Vireo is a great story of what can be achieved when conservationists, government agencies, and communities come together to save a species from the threat of extinction. This success shows the importance of persistence, innovation, and cooperation in the face of environmental challenges.

Celebrate Earth Day with our feathered friends at Birdorable! We've created a collection of shareable Birdorable graphics featuring some of the world's most beloved birds. These cute and colorful images are perfect for spreading awareness and joy on social media. Whether you're an avid birder or just a nature lover, these graphics are sure to brighten your feed and inspire your friends and followers to cherish and protect our Earth. Let's tweet, post, and share our way to a more bird-friendly world this Earth Day! 🌎 💚 🌍💚🌏

As the night sky glows with city lights, it's easy to forget that this artificial brightness affects more than just our ability to see the stars. It also poses a significant challenge to millions of migratory birds traveling under the cover of darkness. Each year, vast numbers of birds traverse long distances, relying on natural cues like starlight to navigate. Excessive lighting in urban areas can disorient these nocturnal travelers, leading to fatal window collisions, disorientation, and unnecessary exhaustion. To combat this problem, some cities around the world have adopted "Lights Out" programs, a crucial initiative aimed at making urban environments safer for migrating birds during key periods of their journey.

The concept of "Lights Out" is simple -- yet effective. During peak migration seasons, spring and fall, residents, businesses, and city officials are encouraged to turn off or dim non-essential exterior lighting and window lighting during overnight hours. This reduction in light pollution during critical hours helps decrease the chances of birds being attracted to and disoriented by the lighting, which can lead to collisions with buildings.

Cities like Chicago, Toronto, and New York have been pioneers in this movement. These programs are often run in collaboration with local Audubon societies or wildlife organizations, which help monitor bird populations and advocate for policies that protect these aerial travelers. For example, New York City's "Lights Out New York" initiative is part of a broader effort that includes public awareness campaigns and partnerships with prominent buildings throughout the city to dim their lights during migration periods.

The impact of such initiatives can be profound. Research indicates that turning off lights can significantly reduce the number of birds killed due to building collisions. For instance, a study in Chicago found that bird collision deaths dropped by 80% in one building that participated in a Lights Out program (source). But complying with the program during the entirety of migration is key. This same building, McCormick Place, was also the site of a mass bird-collision event in October 2023 when the lights were not turned off as part of the program. Complying with bird-safe Lights Out programs has added benefits, including such as energy conservation, reduced carbon emissions, and building maintenance cost-savings.

Participation in "Lights Out" programs also serves an educational purpose. These programs raise awareness about the plights of migratory birds and the broader ecological impacts of human activities. For many city dwellers, these programs provide a tangible way to contribute to conservation efforts right from their homes or workplaces.

The success of "Lights Out" in major cities has inspired other municipalities to adopt similar measures. Smaller cities and even individual property owners are encouraged to participate by turning off unnecessary lights during migration seasons. This collective effort creates a safer passage for migratory birds, helping to ensure that these creatures can successfully complete their impressive and crucial journeys.

For bird enthusiasts, participating in or promoting "Lights Out" initiatives is a direct way to engage in bird conservation. It can be as simple as switching off extra lights at night during migration months or advocating for local policies that encourage broader community involvement. By spreading the word, supporting local Audubon chapters, or even participating in citizen science projects to monitor bird populations, individuals can make a substantial impact.

The beauty of the night sky is universal, and ensuring it can be navigated safely by our feathered friends is a responsibility we all share. The "Lights Out" programs represent a hopeful synergy between urban development and natural preservation, proving that even small changes in our behavior can facilitate major positive outcomes for wildlife conservation.

Suggested reading:

• Lights Out Program [Audubon.org]
• Misguiding Lights: American Bird Conservancy Highlights Artificial Light's Link to Bird-Glass Collisions
• Lights Out [BirdCast]
• Peak Migration Dates for U.S. Cities [BirdCast]

The Green Jay (Cyanocorax yncas) is a vibrant jewel among birds, with its dazzling array of green, blue, black, and yellow feathers. Native to the tropical regions of Central and South America, and spotted as far north as the southern tips of Texas, the Green Jay is an avian example of nature's colorful palette. These birds are not only a feast for the eyes but also play a vital role in their ecosystems, embodying the interconnectedness of life within their habitats.

One of the most striking features of the Green Jay is its colorful plumage, which blends seamlessly with the lush tropical environments it inhabits. This brilliant coloration serves as camouflage, hiding them from predators as they move through the foliage. The blend of greens and blues mirrors the dappled sunlight filtering through the trees, while their brighter colors dazzle and distract. Their appearance is not just for show; it's a survival strategy honed by evolution.

In addition to their beauty, Green Jays are known for their intelligence and complex social behavior. They are corvids, after all, part of a family of birds that includes crows and ravens, all known for their social interactions and intelligence.

Green Jays live in family groups and exhibit cooperative breeding behaviors, where not only the parents but also older siblings participate in raising each batch of young. This communal lifestyle strengthens social bonds and increases the survival rate of their offspring.

The Green Jay's diet is omnivorous, including insects, seeds, and fruits, which makes them important seed dispersers and pest controllers in their ecosystems. Their foraging behavior contributes to the health and regeneration of their forest homes, showcasing their role as ecological engineers.

Green Jays are also notable for their vocalizations, which include a variety of calls and mimicked sounds. Their ability to mimic the calls of other birds and potentially even human-made noises demonstrates their adaptability and intelligence. These vocal skills are not merely for communication within the flock; they can also be used to deceive other species or deter predators, adding another layer to their complex behaviors. Another remarkable part of their vocal behavior occurs during breeding season, when the birds become quiet, with all individuals remaining silent when caring for vulnerable babies in the nest.

Despite their adaptability, Green Jays, like many species, face threats from habitat loss and fragmentation due to deforestation and agricultural expansion. Protecting their natural habitats is crucial for their survival, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts in tropical and subtropical regions. Initiatives to preserve large tracts of forest and establish wildlife corridors are vital to maintaining the biodiversity and ecological integrity of these areas.

The Green Jay's presence enriches the tapestry of biodiversity in the Americas, reminding us of the beauty and complexity of the natural world. Their behavior and ecology offer fascinating insights into the workings of tropical ecosystems, emphasizing the need for conservation and the importance of each species in the web of life. As we strive to protect these vibrant birds and their habitats, we also safeguard the health and diversity of our planet for future generations.

As part of our continuing series on bird myths, today we unravel the truth behind a familiar claim: Owls Can Turn Their Heads 360 Degrees. While this statement stretches the truth by nearly 100 degrees, the reality is no less astonishing. Owls are indeed masters of neck gymnastics, possessing the ability to rotate their heads up to an impressive 270 degrees, which is 3/4 of the way around. This incredible feat of flexibility is no party trick -- it serves a critical role in the survival and hunting strategies of these nocturnal raptors.

The myth of 360-degree neck swivels is rooted in what humans can observe in owls. One can imagine that seeing an owl look directly behind themselves without turning their body might lead someone to believe that owls can actually turn their heads all the way around. But careful observation will reveal the truth -- the bird must turn its head back the way it came to turn back forwards.

But how can owls turn their heads so far, and why do they have this adaptation? Owls have fixed eye sockets, meaning they cannot move their eyes within their skulls in order to look around, as humans and many other animals do. Instead, nature has equipped them with a highly flexible neck, allowing them to swivel their heads extensively in order to look around them. This unique adaptation enables owls to have a wide field of vision, essentially giving them the ability to observe their surroundings in almost every direction, without the need to move their entire body. This capability is crucial for spotting potential prey or identifying threats in their environment, particularly during the night, when visibility is low and owl vision excels.

The anatomical secret behind an owl's remarkable head rotation lies in the owl's neck bones. Unlike humans, who have seven cervical vertebrae, owls are endowed with 14, providing the additional flexibility to turn the neck so far around. Moreover, owl neck arteries have special adaptations to prevent blood flow from being cut off or causing damage during extreme rotations. This includes a system of blood vessels that ensures continuous blood supply to the brain and eyes when the main pathways are pinched during rotation.

This 270-degree rotational ability enhances the owl's silent hunting prowess. By minimizing movement, owls can stealthily observe and target their prey, maintaining an element of surprise. Their silent flight, combined with this panoramic vision, makes them formidable predators of the night, capable of detecting and swooping down on unsuspecting prey with remarkable precision.

Understanding the truth behind the owl's head rotation demystifies one of the many fascinating adaptations in the avian world, highlighting the complexity and beauty of nature's designs. It's a great example of the evolutionary marvels that allow birds, like the owl, to thrive in their specific niches, perfectly adapted to their ways of life.

Chicago's skyline, while iconic, poses a significant threat to tens of thousands of migrating birds each year. Birds, unable to recognize clear or reflective glass as an obstacle, suffer fatal collisions with buildings. Since 2016, Bird Friendly Chicago (BFC) has been at the forefront of addressing this pressing issue, culminating in a 2020 directive from Chicago’s city council to the Department of Planning and Development (DPD) to prioritize bird-friendly building design.

Despite these efforts, as we approach spring 2024, the DPD hesitates to make bird safety measures mandatory, choosing instead to list them as optional. This decision could perpetuate the cycle of avian fatalities, undermining years of advocacy and research aimed at protecting Chicago's feathered visitors.

The time to act is now. The DPD's upcoming Sustainable Development Policy must include mandatory bird-friendly building standards with their policy release scheduled for April 15th -- there is not time to wait.

BFC has outlined two immediate actions for the public:

1. Participate in the DPD survey, emphasizing the importance of Bird Protection. Learn more on the Chicago Ornithological Society website here.
2. Send a personalized email to Mayor Brandon Johnson and key city officials, advocating for mandatory bird-friendly provisions. A sample letter is provided at the COS site linked above.

By engaging in these actions, and spreading the word through social media, Chicago area birders can amplify a collective voice for conservation.

COS has identified April 4th as a Day of Action, where many voices can join together to make a big impact.

This issue transcends environmental considerations; it's about shaping a city that coexists harmoniously with nature. Let's ensure Chicago leads by example, safeguarding the lives of migrating birds for generations to come.