Nature Table Explorer Barbara ( American Corespondent!) has sent some brilliant pictures of two species of fantastic birds.
Firstly the Trumpeter Swan (Cygnus buccinator)
These birds are the largest of the American native waterfowl . They are also one of the heaviest flying birds in North America.
A male swan is called a Cob. The female is called a Pen and the young of the year are called cygnets. While male Trumpeters (21-38 pounds) are generally larger, weigh more than female Trumpeters (20-25 pounds)
The second bird is the Black Vulture. The photo shows a group sitting on the barn roof.
Coragyps atratus
These birds are usually seen in flocks,as on the barn and their range is increasing northwards.
Interesting facts about Black Vultures –
- They lack a voice box and so their vocal abilities are limited to making raspy hisses and grunts.
- Although Black Vultures and their relatives live only in North and South America, the oldest fossils from this group—at least 34 million years old—were found in Europe.
- Highly social birds with fierce family loyalty, Black Vultures share food with relatives, feeding young for months after they’ve fledged.
Thanks Barbara for sharing these brilliant birds looking forward to more American nature.
A Nature Table Explorer badge will be winging its way over the Atlantic for you !
NATURE TABLE EXPLORER 