BIRDS
Birds are simply a group of warm-blooded vertebrates making up the class Aves. Characterized by feathers, laying hard-shell eggs, four-chambered heart and strong lightweight skeleton, there are approximately 10,000 species worldwide. Strangely, the bird's closest relative is the crocodile and is considered the only living dinosaur. Valued for their colorful beauty and song, some birds are also an important food source, too....Walter Pietrowicz
• DUCK-LIKE
I wonder if Geese, Swans and the many other ducks seen on our waterways actucally fly since they spend most of their time swimming. Okay, maybe Pelicans do practice Bernoulli's Principle skimming inches above the ocean's surface aiding in their perfected "glide."
• GULL-LIKE
While most soar above our oceans, some terns and gulls can popular inland waters, too. Characterized by long pointed wings, they spend most their time in the air. One trip to the beach you would not think so as many seemed to be enjoying the sand as much as we are.
• HAWK-LIKE (raptors)
Soaring high above, these birds are the top predator, utilizing its sharply hooked bills for tearing apart their prey. Vultures, Eagles, and Hawks are just a few making up the list of thirty plus raptors in North America.
• LONG-LEGGED WADERS
Their long legs are perfect for these fresh and salt water waders. Herons, Egrets, Spoonbills and others species make up this group.
• OWLS
You may be lucky to see one of these hunters resting in a tree during the day, as they are mostly noctural creatures. Although, several like the Snowy Owl do employ our sleep regiment and hunts during daylight hours.
• PERCHING
This is the largest group and in most cases the group of birds we see in our daily activities around the house. You may also here them especially in spring when nest-building is a priorities. You can't miss the aerial dsisplay of Kingfishers, Songbirds, Hummingbirds and the many others in-between perching.
• PIGEON-LIKE
What is a city without pigeons? As comfortable on the ground as in the air, most have winessed their mincing gait along the pavement. Additionally, they seemed to have no fear of humans.
• TREE CLINGING
You may not see them, but chances are you heard their hammering away on a tree trunk for its next meal, bugs. Dressed mainly in black, Woodpeckers fall into this group.
• ALL OTHERS
Swallows and other will be found nesting here.