Our Birdorable Hummingbird Week 2024 continues today with a new species added to our flock: it's the Violet Sabrewing!

The Violet Sabrewing is one of the largest and most stunning hummingbirds in the Americas. This vibrant bird is a spectacle with its iridescent plumage and dynamic behavior. Found primarily in the tropical regions of Central America, the Violet Sabrewing captures the fascination of bird enthusiasts with its striking appearance and unique characteristics. 

One of the most distinctive feature of the Violet Sabrewing is its vivid plumage. Adult males are particularly striking with their deep violet-blue feathers covering most of their bodies. They have a distinctive white spot behind their eyes and a curved bill that is adapted to feed on nectar. Females are slightly less colorful, with green upperparts and a mix of violet and white on their underparts. This sexual dimorphism is typical in many hummingbird species and plays a significant role in their mating rituals.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Violet Sabrewing is its size. This bird is big -- for a hummingbird! It is one of the largest species of hummingbirds, measuring up to 5.9 inches (nearly 15cm) in length. Even at this size, they're still hummers, and these hummingbirds are incredibly agile and can perform impressive aerial maneuvers. Their powerful wings allow them to hover in place while feeding and even fly backward, showcasing their remarkable flight capabilities.

The diet of the Violet Sabrewing is primarily composed of nectar from a variety of flowering plants. They have a preference for flowers with long corollas, which match their long, curved bills. In addition to nectar, they also consume small insects and spiders, which provide essential proteins, especially during the breeding season. This diet helps sustain their high energy levels and supports that active hummingbird lifestyle!

Violet Sabrewings are typically found in humid tropical forests, often at elevations ranging from 1,600 - 6,600 feet (500 to 2,000 meters). They prefer habitats with abundant flowering plants, naturally, which provide a consistent food source for these nectar-lovers. These hummingbirds are also known to visit gardens and feeders, where they can be observed up close, much to the delight of bird watchers.

The conservation status of the Violet Sabrewing is currently classified as "Least Concern" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), though the population is thought to be decreasing. Habitat loss due to deforestation and human encroachment poses a significant threat to their population, which is currently large and widely distributed. 

The Violet Sabrewing hummingbird joins our avian family and becomes our 798th Birdorable bird! Tune in tomorrow as we wrap up Hummingbird Week (and reveal one more new hummer!).

Today for our Hummingbird Week new bird reveal, we're sharing the Birdorable Allen's Hummingbird! 

The Allen's Hummingbird is a small, captivating bird, known for its dazzling colors and remarkable agility. This hummingbird breeds along coastal regions of California and parts of southern Oregon. Despite its petite size, the Allen's Hummingbird boasts a vibrant personality and an array of interesting characteristics that make it a bird-lover's favorite. 

One of the most striking features of the Allen's Hummingbird is its brilliant plumage. Adult males are particularly eye-catching with their bright orange-red throat, known as a gorget, and a green back. Their underparts are mostly orange, adding to their fiery appearance. Females and immature males are less vividly colored, sporting greenish-brown backs and white underparts with a sprinkling of rusty hues. This sexual dimorphism is quite common among hummingbirds and plays a role in courtship and mating.

Speaking of courtship, the Allen's Hummingbird has a unique and elaborate display routines to attract mates. During the breeding season, males perform two different types of dramatic displays to attract mates. Shuttle displays involve intimate fly-bys with gorgets flared for maximum visual impact, along with a loud accompanying sound produced by fluttering wings. Dive displays include high-speed fly-bys. These displays are not just about showing off their flying skills, but also about demonstrating their fitness and health to potential mates. The displays may even be directed at other birds -- not just potential mates. The combination of visual and auditory signals makes for an interesting method of attracting attention!

The diet of the Allen's Hummingbird primarily consists of nectar from various flowering plants, which provides them with the energy needed for their high metabolism and active lifestyle.  Additionally, they consume small insects and spiders, which supply essential proteins. This diet not only sustains their energetic behavior but also helps them during breeding season, when nutritional needs are higher.

The Allen's Hummingbird is also known for its migratory behavior. While some populations are year-round residents in southern California, especially on off-shore islands, others migrate to Mexico during the winter months. This migration is relatively short compared to other bird species. The coastal habitats they favor provide abundant food resources and suitable nesting sites, making these areas critical for their life cycle.

Although their conservation status is considered to be "Least Concern", Allen's Hummingbirds face several environmental threats. Habitat loss due to urbanization and agriculture is a significant concern, as it reduces the availability of their preferred nesting and feeding sites. Climate change also poses a threat, potentially altering the timing of flower blooming and insect availability, which can affect their food sources. Human activity has been beneficial to the non-migratory population, where year-round blooming trees have been planted.

The Allen's Hummingbird is a remarkable bird that enchants with its vivid colors, agile flight, and fascinating behaviors. This species joins our hummingbird family and becomes the 797th Birdorable!

A common myth surrounding hummingbirds is that feeding them in the fall will prevent them from migrating. This myth suggests that providing a food source during migration season will encourage hummingbirds to stay in one place rather than making their long journey south for the winter. However, this belief is not supported by scientific evidence. Let's explore why this myth persists and the reality of how hummingbird migration works.

Why Do Hummingbirds Migrate?

Hummingbird migration is primarily driven by instinct and environmental cues, not by the availability of food. As the amount of daylight decreases in the fall, migratory hummingbirds experience hormonal changes that trigger their behavior and movements. These changes prompt them to start their journey to their wintering grounds, regardless of the local food supply. This instinct is deeply ingrained and ensures that they migrate to warmer climates where they can find abundant food during the colder months.

Should We Feed Hummingbirds in the Fall?

Providing food for hummingbirds in the fall can actually be beneficial for these tiny travelers. During migration, hummingbirds need to consume large amounts of energy to fuel their long flights. A reliable food source, such as a well-maintained feeder filled with a simple solution of sugar water, can help them build up the fat reserves they need for their journey. Far from discouraging migration, feeding hummingbirds can support their natural behavior by ensuring they have the necessary energy to make the trip.

Another reason the myth persists is the observation of lingering hummingbirds at feeders in the fall. Some people mistakenly believe that the presence of these birds means they are delaying or foregoing migration due to the easy food source. In reality, these birds are usually just stopping by feeders to refuel before continuing their journey. Additionally, some hummingbirds naturally migrate later than others, so it's not uncommon to see them visiting feeders well into the fall season.

It's also important to note that there are different species of hummingbirds with varying migration patterns. For example, the Ruby-throated Hummingbird, commonly found in eastern North America, typically migrates to Central America for the winter. In contrast, some species on the West Coast, like the Anna's Hummingbird, may stay in milder climates year-round or only migrate short distances. Understanding the specific migration habits of the hummingbirds in your area can help dispel the myth further.

To support migrating hummingbirds, it's recommended to keep feeders up until at least two weeks after you see the last hummingbird in the fall. This practice ensures that any late migrants passing through will have access to a valuable food source. Just remember to keep the feeders clean and filled with fresh nectar to prevent the growth of harmful mold and bacteria.

Hummingbird Myth: Busted!

The myth that feeding hummingbirds in the fall will stop them from migrating is unfounded. Hummingbirds are guided by instinct and environmental cues to migrate, and providing them with food can actually aid in their long journey. By maintaining feeders during migration season, we can help these remarkable birds get the energy they need to travel to their wintering grounds safely.

How to Make Hummingbird Nectar

It's easy to make the ideal hummingbird food for your feeding station. Just mix sugar and water together without any additives, artificial sweeteners, or dyes. The recipe is simply 1 part sugar with 4 parts water. Clean your feeders often to prevent mold and the spread of disease. The National Zoo has more information here: Hummingbird Nectar Recipe. 

For this Hummingbird Week, we're introducing a fabulous new species of hummingbird to the Birdorable family: the Red-billed Streamertail!

The Red-billed Streamertail is one of the most dazzling and delightful birds you can find in Jamaica. This bird is not only a sight to behold but also holds a special place in Jamaican culture and folklore. It's importance to the country is seen in the fact that it's the official national bird of Jamaica.

The Red-billed Streamertail is a member of the hummingbird family, known for its spectacularly long tail feathers and vibrant colors. The males of the species are especially eye-catching with their brilliant emerald-green plumage and long, ribbon-like tail feathers that can be up to 10 inches long. These streamers flutter gracefully behind them as they fly.

Female Red-billed Streamertails are less flamboyant but equally adorable. They lack the long tail feathers and have more subdued green plumage with white underparts. Despite their differences, both males and females share the characteristic red bill that gives the species its name.

This beautiful bird is endemic to Jamaica, meaning it is found nowhere else in the world. Its preferred habitats are tropical rainforests, gardens, and plantations where it can find ample food sources. The Red-billed Streamertail feeds primarily on nectar, using its long bill to reach deep into flowers. In addition to nectar, it also consumes small insects and spiders, providing a well-rounded diet that supports its high-energy lifestyle.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Red-billed Streamertail is its courtship display. Males perform an aerial dance to attract females, flying in broad arcs and loops, and even hovering, all while showing off their long tail streamers. This display is not only a visual spectacle but also produces a distinctive whirring sound, adding an auditory element to the performance.

In Jamaican culture, the Red-billed Streamertail is more than just a beautiful bird; it is a national symbol and a subject of many legends and stories. Locally known as the Doctor Bird, this hummingbird is celebrated in folklore as a mystical creature with healing powers. Some tales even suggest that seeing a Doctor Bird brings good luck.

The conservation status of the Red-billed Streamertail is currently stable, thanks in part to its adaptability and the relatively intact habitats in Jamaica. However, habitat destruction and climate change pose potential threats to its population. Conservation efforts and awareness are essential to ensure that this stunning bird continues to thrive in its natural environment.

Birdwatchers visiting Jamaica are often eager to catch a glimpse of the Red-billed Streamertail, and it's no wonder why. Watching a male in full display is like witnessing a living jewel in motion. Their rapid wing beats and dazzling colors make them a highlight for any birding expedition.

The Red-billed Streamertail is a remarkable bird with its radiant plumage, extraordinary tail feathers, and captivating courtship displays. Its importance in Jamaican culture and folklore further enhances its charm. Ensuring the conservation of this endemic species allows future generations to continue to marvel at one of nature's most exquisite avian wonders. We welcome this amazing little flying jewel to our Birdorable family!

Hummingbirds are fascinating creatures known for their incredible flight abilities and iridescent plumage. One intriguing aspect of their biology is their feet, which have given rise to a common myth: hummingbirds' feet are only strong enough for perching, and therefore hummingbirds cannot walk. While this statement contains a kernel of truth, it is a bit of an oversimplification. For Hummingbird Week, let's explore the reality behind this myth and uncover the unique adaptations of hummingbird feet.

Hummingbirds have very small, delicate feet, which are indeed primarily adapted for perching rather than walking. These tiny birds have evolved feet that allow them to cling to branches, leaves, or feeders securely. Their toes are equipped with strong, curved claws that can grip tightly onto perches. This adaptation is essential for their survival, as it enables them to rest between their frequent and energetically costly flights.

Like most birds, hummingbirds have three forward-facing toes and one backward-facing toe. The inner surface of the claws are ridged for better gripping when perched. 

Although hummingbirds can grip and perch effectively, their feet are not well-suited for walking or hopping on the ground. Their legs are relatively short and weak, and they lack knees, which limits their ability to move around on flat surfaces. When on the ground, hummingbirds may appear clumsy, and their movements are more like shuffling than walking. This lack of walking ability is because their legs and feet are highly specialized for minimizing weight and maximizing efficiency in the air.

Hummingbirds' exceptional flight capabilities further explain why their feet are not designed for walking. These birds are among the most agile fliers in the avian world, capable of hovering, flying backwards, and making rapid, intricate maneuvers. Their wings beat incredibly fast, sometimes up to 80 times per second, requiring a lightweight body structure to support this intense activity. Streamlined little legs and feet contribute to their overall aerodynamic efficiency.

Myth not busted, but explained: while the myth that hummingbirds cannot walk is not entirely accurate, it highlights the fascinating adaptations these birds have evolved to thrive in their ecological niche. Their feet are perfectly suited for perching, allowing them to rest and conserve energy between feeding on nectar, catching insects, and performing their remarkable aerial displays.

Understanding the unique adaptations of hummingbird feet gives us a deeper appreciation for these extraordinary birds. It also underscores the incredible diversity of the avian world, where each species has evolved specialized traits to survive and flourish in its environment.

Further study:

• Video of Allen's Hummingbird shuffle-walking on a birdbath
• Wikipedia: Bird Feet and Legs
• Wikipedia: Hummingbird

It's 🌺 Pollinator Week 🌺 June 17-23, and we're here to celebrate an important family of birds that acts as pollinators across the New World: Hummingbirds! It's Hummingbird Week here at Birdorable! We'll be celebrating with posts featuring hummingbird facts, busting hummingbird myths, and more. Of course, we'll be adding some new hummingbirds to our Birdorable family as well! Join us this week as we celebrate hummingbirds, and pollinators!

Why Pollinators Are Important

Pollinators, including bees, butterflies, bats, and birds, play a crucial role in both ecosystems and agriculture. Pollinators facilitate the reproduction of flowering plants by transferring pollen from one flower to another, enabling the plants to produce fruits, seeds, and more plants. This process is essential for the growth of many crops and wild plants, contributing to biodiversity and food security. Pollinators are responsible for pollinating 75-95% of the world's flowering plants and up to 75% of global food crops, like fruits, vegetables, and nuts. Their activity supports healthy ecosystems, which in turn provide clean air, water, and habitats for other wildlife.

Hummingbirds As Pollinators

Hummingbirds are among nature's most fascinating pollinators, playing a crucial role in the ecosystem by helping to fertilize flowers and promote plant diversity. Here are some interesting facts and insights into their role as pollinators. 

Specialized Feeding Adaptations

Hummingbirds have long, slender bills and extendable tongues that allow them to reach deep into flowers to access nectar. This specialized feeding adaptation makes them effective pollinators for a variety of tubular flowers that other pollinators cannot reach.

Hovering Ability

Unlike many other birds, hummingbirds can hover in mid-air thanks to their rapid wing beats, which can reach up to 80 beats per second. This ability allows them to feed from flowers without landing, minimizing damage to the blooms and increasing pollination efficiency.

Mutualistic Relationships

Many plants have evolved to attract hummingbirds specifically. These plants often have bright red or orange tubular flowers, which are particularly appealing to hummingbirds. In return for providing nectar, the plants benefit from the pollination services that hummingbirds provide as they transfer pollen from flower to flower. Sword-billed Hummingbirds, the only species of bird that has a bill longer than its body, typically feed on flowers with exceedingly long tubes that can only be reached by them.

Long-distance Pollinators

Some hummingbirds are known for their long migrations, with some species traveling thousands of miles between breeding and wintering grounds. During these migrations, they pollinate plants across vast distances, contributing to genetic diversity and plant reproduction over a wide area.

Ecological Impact

Hummingbirds play a significant role in maintaining the health and diversity of ecosystems. By pollinating a wide range of plant species, they help ensure the survival of many plants, which in turn provide food and habitat for other wildlife.

Color Vision

Hummingbirds have excellent color vision and are particularly attracted to bright colors. This trait helps them locate flowers quickly and efficiently. Plants that rely on hummingbirds for pollination often have brightly colored flowers to attract these avian visitors.

Pollination Efficiency

Hummingbirds are highly efficient pollinators due to their ability to visit numerous flowers in a single foraging trip. As they move from flower to flower, pollen sticks to their bills and feathers, facilitating cross-pollination and increasing the genetic diversity of the plants they visit.

Adaptation to High Metabolism

Hummingbirds have an extremely high metabolism, requiring them to consume up to half their body weight in nectar each day. This constant need for food drives them to visit hundreds of flowers daily, making them prolific pollinators.

Keystone Species

In some ecosystems, hummingbirds act as keystone species. Their pollination activities are crucial for the survival of certain plants, which in turn support other species. The presence of hummingbirds can thus have a profound impact on the entire ecosystem.

Hummingbird Week!

Hummingbirds are essential pollinators with specialized adaptations that make them uniquely suited to their role. Their interactions with plants drive ecological processes and contribute to the health and diversity of ecosystems. By understanding and supporting hummingbird conservation, we can help maintain the balance and beauty of the natural world. You can see why hummingbirds and their role as pollinators is important. Join us this week as we celebrate hummingbirds here on the blog! 

Grackles are fascinating birds with intriguing behaviors and striking appearances. There are 10 living species of grackle in the world, along with one known extinct species. There are three Birdorable grackle species (read on to learn which ones we feature!). These New World birds live in various habitats across North and South America. Here are some interesting facts about these lively and adaptable birds!

Social Structure

Grackles are highly social birds, often forming large flocks that can number in the thousands. These flocks can create quite a spectacle, especially during roosting or migration periods.

Unique Vocalizations

Grackles have a wide range of vocalizations, including whistles, croaks, and clicks. They are known for their loud, harsh calls, which can often be heard in urban areas.  Calls of the Common Grackle have been compared to the noise made by rusty gate hinges. These varied vocalizations help them communicate within their social groups, attract mates, and signal danger. Additionally, grackles can mimic other birds and environmental noises.

Dietary Flexibility

Grackles are omnivorous and highly opportunistic feeders. Their diet includes insects, small mammals, eggs, seeds, fruits, and even human food scraps. They are known to forage in fields, lawns, and dumpsters alike.

Iridescent Feathers

Grackles are known for their glossy, iridescent feathers that can shimmer in shades of blue, purple, green, and bronze, especially in sunlight. This iridescence is visible due to the microscopic structure of their feathers that affect the way light appears when the bird moves.

Bold and Aggressive Behavior

Known for their boldness, grackles often exhibit aggressive behavior towards other birds and even larger animals. They can be seen chasing away other birds from feeders or scavenging spots. When attacking other birds, they will peck, bite, and scratch.

Interesting Courtship Displays

During courtship, male grackles perform elaborate displays to attract females. These displays often include fluffing their feathers, spreading their wings and tail, and making a variety of calls. Male Great-tailed Grackles will fluff out their feathers, fan out their tails, and quiver their wings in order to attract females.

Sexual Dimorphism

There is noticeable sexual dimorphism in grackles. Males are generally larger and more iridescent than females. This difference is particularly evident in species like the Boat-tailed Grackle, where females differ in both size and plumage (they are mostly brown).

Pest Control Benefits

By feeding on insects, grackles help control pest populations. They consume a significant number of agricultural pests, which can be beneficial for farmers. Unfortunately, several grackle species are also seen as agricultural pests, with large flocks happily consuming crops like corn.

Adaptability to Urban Environments

Grackles have successfully adapted to urban environments, thriving in cities and towns where they find ample food and nesting sites. Their ability to live in close proximity to humans has contributed to their widespread presence.

Species Diversity

There are several species of grackles, including the Common Grackle, Great-tailed Grackle, and Boat-tailed Grackle, each with unique characteristics and habitats. The seven other living species of grackle are: Nicaraguan Grackle; Greater Antillean Grackle; Carib Grackle; Red-bellied Grackle; Velvet-fronted Grackle; Golden-tufted Grackle; and Colombian Mountain Grackle. The Slender-billed Grackle became extinct around 1910.

Grackles are Great

From their stunning iridescent feathers to their interesting courtship techniques, grackles belong to an interesting family of New World birds. From familiar backyard birds to elusive tropical species, grackles remind us of the intricate balance within ecosystems and the importance of each species in maintaining ecological harmony. 

Birdorable Grackle Gifts

Did you catch the three grackle species we have here at Birdorable? They are they Common Grackle, the Boat-tailed Grackle, and the Great-tailed Grackle! Here are some apparel and gift options featuring our Birdorable grackles. 

Two of our newest birds here at Birdorable are the Brown Tanager and Brown-flanked Tanager. The two different species may seem similar at first glance due to their names, but they have distinct characteristics, ranges, habits, and habitats. Let's dive into the details of these two fascinating birds.

The Brown Tanager

The Brown Tanager (Orchesticus abeillei) is a small bird endemic to Brazil where it is found in the highlands of the southeast.  It prefers the dense, humid forests of the Atlantic Forest biome, often at elevations between 900 and 2,000 meters. This bird's plumage is predominantly brown, as its name suggests, but it can have subtle variations in shade. The Brown Tanager is relatively elusive, making it a treat for birdwatchers who manage to spot it.

The diet of the Brown Tanager consists mainly of insects; fruits are an occasional treat. Brown Tanagers are often seen foraging alone or in pairs, though they may join mixed-species feeding flocks during certain times of the year.

The Brown Tanager is the only species in its genus, Orchesticus. 

The Brown-flanked Tanager

The Brown-flanked Tanager (Thlypopsis pectoralis) is also an endemic species, this one found only in Peru.  This bird favors montane forests, typically between 2,500 and 3,200 meters in elevation. The Brown-flanked Tanager is easily recognizable by its distinctive rufous-orange head and breast on an otherwise drab grey-brown body.

The Brown-flanked Tanager's diet is comprised mostly of prey items including insects, moths, and caterpillars. One interesting aspect of the Brown-flanked Tanager's behavior is its participation in mixed-species flocks. These flocks, common in Andean forests, consist of various bird species that move together while foraging. This behavior helps reduce the risk of predation and increases foraging efficiency.

The Brown-flanked Tanager is a member of the genus Thlypopsis, a group of 8 tanager species with a widespread range across parts of South America.

A Tale of Two Tanagers

For bird enthusiasts, observing these two species offers a chance to appreciate the diversity of tanagers and the unique adaptations that allow them to thrive in their respective environments. Whether it's the quiet beauty of the Brown Tanager in Brazil's highland forests or the active presence of the Brown-flanked Tanager in the Andean montane forests of Peru, each bird brings its own charm to the avian world. We proudly welcome these tropical avian friends to our big Birdorable family!

Father's Day is a special occasion to honor the dedication, love, and hard work of fathers and father figures across the globe. While we celebrate the human dads in our lives, it's also a perfect time to recognize the incredible fathers in the animal kingdom, particularly among birds. Bird dads come in all shapes and sizes, each with unique and fascinating parenting roles that highlight their dedication to nurturing and protecting their offspring.

Father's Day will be celebrated on June 16, 2024. That's just 10 days away -- which means you still have time to find something for your pop. If dad likes birds, be sure to check out our Birdorable Amazon shop, where items ship fast and free with Amazon Prime. 

Back in 2019, we shared some fun facts to mark the day: Fun Avian Dad Facts for Father's Day. As dad's day approaches this year, let's take a look at some more awesome facts about avian dads.

Father rheas are dedicated single dads. After constructing the nest alone, they court multiple females, who together may lay up to 60 eggs in his nest. The male incubates the eggs and raises the chicks on his own. He protects and cares for the young until they are old enough to fend for themselves​ -- at least six months.

Father Killdeer are very active in the nesting process. They participate in nest building, typically initiating the creation of the scrape. They incubate the eggs, and do most of the overnight shift. They also help to protect the nest and chicks by performing the well-known Killdeer injury-feigning display. 

Red-winged Blackbird dads are known for their territorial nature, especially during the breeding season. They arrive first on breeding sites and establish territory. They will fiercely defend their nesting area throughout courtship, nest-building, and chick-rearing. Part of this defense includes a predator alert system involving different call types for different threats. Though the females build the nests, males participate in "Symbolic Nest-building Display" which involves play-nest-building.

Common Loon dads are active participants in both nest-building and chick-rearing. They typically choose the nesting site and work together with the female to build the nest. They share in egg incubation, and both carry chicks on their backs to keep them warm and safe, and teach them to dive and catch fish.

Male sandgrouse in arid regions are known for their unique method of providing water to their chicks. They soak their belly feathers in water and fly long distances back to the nest, allowing the chicks to drink from their feathers. 

Father Great Horned Owls are excellent providers. When their chicks are young, the males do all of the hunting and bring food to the female and the chicks, ensuring that the family is well-fed. They also help protect the nest from potential threats.

Periodical cicadas are among nature's most fascinating insects, with their synchronized emergences occurring every 13 or 17 years. These insects spend most of their lives underground as nymphs, feeding on tree roots. When they finally emerge, they transform the landscape in remarkable ways, not just for themselves, but also for the local bird populations and broader ecosystems.

In many locations across the midwest and southeast of the United States, the emergence of two broods of cicadas are approaching their peak. Brood XIII (the Northern Illinois Brood, a 17-year cicada) and Brood XIX (the Great Southern Brood, a 12-year cicada) are both emerging right around now. Do you have cicadas where you live? Is this the first time you've experienced this phenomenon?

For birds, this sudden appearance of millions of cicadas provides a significant and timely food source, particularly beneficial during the breeding season.

The life cycle of periodical cicadas is both unique and complex. Cicadas spend 13 or 17 years underground as nymphs, feeding on the sap from tree roots. When they finally emerge, usually overnight, in late spring, they come out in such vast numbers that their presence can’t be ignored. They climb onto nearby vegetation or other surfaces including fences and buildings, where they molt one last time to become winged adults. The sight and sound of millions of cicadas filling the air can be overwhelming, but for birds, it’s an ecological feast.

For local birds, this mass emergence is like a buffet laid out for them. Birds such as American Robins, Blue Jays, and Northern Cardinals feast on the cicadas, taking advantage of the sudden abundance of food. This feeding frenzy can have several impacts on bird populations.

It provides a significant nutritional boost. The abundance of cicadas offers an easy and nutritious food source, which is particularly advantageous during the breeding season when birds need extra energy to care for their young. The high protein content of cicadas helps adult birds maintain their strength and improves the health and growth rate of their chicks.

The abundance of cicadas can influence bird behavior and breeding success. Some studies suggest that bird species with access to periodical cicadas may produce more offspring during emergence years. This is because the high protein content of cicadas helps improve the health and vitality of both adult birds and their young. This increased food availability can lead to more successful broods, thereby potentially boosting local bird populations in the years following a cicada emergence.

With cicadas providing a plentiful food source, predation pressure on other insects and small animals may decrease, allowing these populations to thrive as well. With birds focusing on the abundant cicadas, other prey species might experience a temporary reprieve, which can impact the broader ecosystem. This shift in predation and its potential impacts can illustrate the interconnection of these ecological events.

The impact of cicada emergences isn't limited to immediate bird populations. The sudden influx of nutrients into the ecosystem can have cascading effects. When birds eat cicadas, they also help distribute nutrients through their droppings. These nutrients can enrich the soil, promoting plant growth and benefiting the entire ecosystem. The decaying bodies of cicadas that are not eaten contribute to soil fertility, fostering a healthier environment for various plant species.

There are also potential drawbacks. The sudden surge in cicada numbers can lead to temporary imbalances. For instance, some birds might become so focused on cicadas that they neglect other food sources, which could affect their diet diversity in the short term. Additionally, the noise created by millions of male cicadas singing to attract mates can be overwhelming, although it subsides after a few weeks. The maximum lifespan of adult cicadas is just one month.

Understanding the role of periodical cicadas in ecosystems underscores the intricate connections between species. These insects, which might seem inconsequential or even annoying to some, play a vital part in maintaining ecological balance. Their predictable emergences offer a unique opportunity to observe natural processes and the interdependence of life forms.

For birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, cicada years present a chance to witness extraordinary interactions. Watching birds capitalize on this bonanza is a reminder of the adaptive strategies wildlife employs to survive and thrive. It’s a perfect living example of the resilience and complexity of nature, where even the most unusual life cycles have their place and purpose.

The emergence of periodical cicadas is a natural marvel with significant ecological implications. These events provide crucial food resources for birds, influence breeding success, and contribute to nutrient cycling in ecosystems. By appreciating these interactions, we gain deeper insights into the delicate balance of our natural world.

Links for further study:

• Wikipedia article on Periodical cicadas
• Cicada Safari: facts, activities, and resources
• Periodical Cicadas, 2024: Entomologists Prepare for the Six-Week Serenade