Birds
The Marvelous Mechanics of Hummingbirds
by Holly Hastings Alberta is fortunate to be the “Canadian sweet spot for hummingbird species.”1 We are home to three year-round species: the ruby-throated, calliope,
Birds
Birds
Meet Alberta’s Feathered Cleanup Crew: The Turkey Vulture
by Marissa Hansen Alberta is home to a myriad of wildlife, but one bird holds a special place as the province’s only vulture—the turkey vulture
Birds
Woodpeckers: Ecosystem Engineers
By Katie Grant Woodpeckers significantly influence the structure and function of their environments, making them a keystone species. The presence and activities of a keystone
Birds
BROOD PARASITISM: A PARENTING LIFEHACK?
By Marissa Hansen Brood parasitism is nature’s version of free daycare. In this scheme, the parasitic bird lays its eggs in the nest of another
Birds
The Intelligence of Magpies
By Courtney Collins Black-billed magpies (Pica hudsonia) are found throughout Alberta and much of western Canada.1 While many regard these birds as pests, often due
Birds
Let’s Talk About bird tongues, AGAIN!
By Jennea Frischke After writing “Let’s Talk About Bird Tongues”, I’ve been so curious about other bird tongues. I covered three types of woodpecker tongues
Birds
Dancing on Water: The Unique World of Grebes
By Marissa Hansen In the vast wetlands and serene lakes of Alberta, a peculiar group of waterbirds glides gracefully, capturing the attention of birdwatchers and
Birds
Ospreys and their recovery
by Courtney Collins Ospreys (Pandion haliaetus) can be found across Canada during the summer breeding season. Ospreys are migratory and can travel over 250,000 km
Birds
Owl Eyes: Nature’s Night Vision Goggles
by Holly Hastings In the mystical realm of night, where shadows dance and humans sleep, there exists an animal with eyes that pierce through the
Birds
Swallows in Alberta
by Marissa Hansen Alberta is home to a diverse array of wildlife. Among the many avian residents of this province, swallows stand out as fascinating
