The ubiquitous Canada goose is one of the most recognized birds in North America. These large tan and black birds with the banded neck can be seen along waterways or migrating in familiar V-shaped patterns which herald the beginning of spring. Canada geese (not “Canadian”) were once endangered from over-hunting, but are now plentiful throughout the contiguous U.S. and Canada.
The Who’s Who of Owls: The North American Spotted Owl
02/10/2014 by
Owls have long been a part of folklore and legend. Often depicted prominently in popular culture, they rank on par with bats and spiders as the most celebrated of Halloween creatures. Owls appear as wise and noble characters in many children’s stories, including Winnie the Pooh, and Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH. Possibly the most famous owl, is Hedwig, the snowy owl in the Harry Potter series.
Born to Run: California Valley Quail
02/10/2014 by
Imagine a bird with an identity crisis. Surely it would be the California quail. Even though quite capable of flying, in most cases this colorful bird has forsaken this magnificent talent in favor of running. Why remain grounded when the world of flight offers such rich possibilities? The answer lies in the woodland chaparral the quail occupies—a habitat rich in food, cover, and security.
