'/> Amazing Animals: animal alphabet
Showing posts with label animal alphabet. Show all posts
Showing posts with label animal alphabet. Show all posts

Saturday, August 1, 2015

Amazing Animal Alphabet Series 2

Explore the animal world, from aardvark to zebu! Discover hundreds of animals, weird and remarkable. This Amazing Animal Alphabet compilation will definitely provide hours of entertainment for both kids and young-at-heart.

If you missed Part 1 of this series then go check it out here: Amazing Animal Alphabet Series 1

From a beautiful southern African antelope, down to a small pouchless Australian marsupial and to an endangered Hawaiian goose, these animals that begins with the letter N are surprisingly awesome!

Nuthatch

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The nuthatch is a small, compact passerine bird that belongs to the bird family Sittidae, comprising 25 species where 15 species are widespread in Asia and few species inhabiting the woodlands of the Northern Hemisphere. Read More

From a tiny tick-eating African bird, to a weird forest giraffe and to an endangered big-eared bat, the animal kingdom presents us with 10 extreme animals whose names begin with the letter O.

Otter

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Otters are twelve species in seven genera of semi-aquatic mammals comprising the family Mustelidae. They inhabit temperate regions of Europe, Asia, North America, and parts of North Africa. Read More

They may not be as popular as their cousins, but these animals whose names start with the letter P are simply awesome in their own right.

Aside from Pig, penguin, panda, pigeon, pelican, puma, panther, pug…. the animal Kingdom offers as with other awesome animals whose names start with the letter P. Here is a list of what I consider, least-known letter P animals.

Proboscis Monkey

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The proboscis monkey or long-nosed monkey, is a reddish-brown monkey that is widespread on the island of Borneo, Malaysia. It is found living along riverbanks, swamps and mangrove forests. A remarkable feature of this arboreal monkey is the male’s large, fleshy nose that can reach up to 7 inches long. Read More

Meet and learn more from these elite animals whose names begin with the letter Q.

From a popular bird hunted for its meat to a cat-like Australian marsupial down to a flamboyant angelfish – they comprise our list of Q animals.

Queen Triggerfish

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The Queen triggerfish (Balistes vetula) is a reef dwelling fish widespread in the Atlantic Ocean. They are found ruined reef tops, coral and grassy areas in depths of up to 20 meters. Named after the spines found on their backs, Queen triggerfish are typically carry brown coloration mark with blue lines on its head and fins. Read More

They may not be as popular as Rabbit, Rat, Robin, Rhinoceros, Rooster or Rottweiler….but these charming animals deserve their spot on our list of animals whose names begin with the letter R.

Roadrunner

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The roadrunners (also known as Ground Cuckoo),are two species of fast-running terrestrial birds native to North and Central America. The two existing species of these ground foraging cuckoos are: Greater Roadrunner (Geococcyx californianus) and Lesser Roadrunner (Geococcyx velox.) Read More

Sifaka, Spring Peeper, and Stoat – what do these animals have in common? They are some of the fascinating animals whose names begin with the letter S. Read on to know more about the other seven animals that made the list.

Spring Peeper

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The Spring Peeper (Pseudacris crucifer) are small, well-camouflaged frogs found throughout the eastern part of Canada and the United States. These amphibians known for their high-pitched peeping sounds inhabit forests and wooded areas near ponds, streams and swamps. Read More

They may not be the most mentioned animals whose names start with the letter T, but after reading down this list, it is a safe fact that you will agree with me that truly these 10 T animals are really fascinating and their names worth remembering.

Tarsier

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The Tarsier is a unique, primitive species of primate that generally spends its entire life on trees. Tarsiers, considered one of the smallest known primates, are today found living in lowland & coastal forests on a number of islands in the Philippines, Indonesia and Malaysia. Read More

A list of seven spectacular animals whose names begin with the letter U.

The animal kingdom presents us with hundreds of amazing, odd-looking and spectacular animals. Among these creatures include 7 spectacular animals whose names begin with the letter U. Read on to learn more about them.

Uromastyx Lizard

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The Uromastyx or the Spiny-tailed lizard is a genus of lizard in the agamid family. There are about 18 extant species of Uromastyx duly recognized by taxonomists. These agamids are well-known for the rings of spiked scales covering the top side of their tail. Read More

A list of seven intriguing V animals you probably never heard of.

Visayan Warty Pig

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The Visayan Warty Pig (Sus cebifrons) is a small, forest-dwelling pig endemic to the Philippines. It gets its name from the three pairs of fleshy “warts” present on the pig’s face. Read More

They may not be as colorful as the turacos, lovable as the talking-parrots or as agile as the fierce raptors — but these birds whose names start with the letter W are indeed fascinating! Read on and learn more about them.

Whimbrel

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The Whimbrel (Numenius phaeopus) is a fairly large wader with distinctive long down-curved bills. A migratory species distributed worldwide, these waders breed across much of North America, Africa, Europe and Asia. On average, adult wattlebirds measure 37–47 cm (15–19 in) and weigh about 270–493 g (9.5–17.4 oz). Read More

Can you give me five animals whose names start with the letter X? Your guess is as good as mine. But I can give you two — a popular aquarium fish and a weird breed of dog. Surprisingly, there are at least 25 animals that starts with the letter X. Here are some of them.

Xantus’s Hummingbird

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The Xantus’s Hummingbird (Basilinna xantusii) is a medium-sized hummingbird found only in Baja California. These husky birds inhabit bushes, forests and home gardens. It can reach 8–9 cm long, and weighs about 3-4 g. Read More

They may not be as beautiful or as popular compared to their more illustrious cousins, but certainly these birds whose names start with the letter Y are simply colorful and fascinating creatures.

Yellowthroat

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The Common Yellowthroat (Geothlypis trichas) are small songbird found in Mexico, North America and Central America. The breeding habitats of these migratory birds include dense shrubs, marshes and thickets. They are solitary or may be found in pairs. Read More

Just to enrich our knowledge about the animal kingdom; here are seven animals whose names start with the letter Z.

Zenaida Dove

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Zenaida Dove or Eared Dove (Zenaida auriculata) is found throughout South America, inhabiting open fields, agricultural lands and savannahs. The Eared Dove can be distinguished by its brown upper feathers long wedge-shaped tail and black markings on its wings. Read More

Saturday, July 11, 2015

Amazing Animal Alphabet Series 1

Explore the animal world, from aardvark to zebu! Discover hundreds of animals, weird and remarkable. This Amazing Animal Alphabet compilation will definitely provide hours of entertainment for both kids and young-at-heart.

The animal kingdom comprises more than two million species; some beautiful and colorful while others are odd-looking and bizarre. If you are asked to name 10 popular animals that begin with the letter A, how would you do it? Below is my own list of popular animals that start with the letter A.

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Agama

An agama is a long-tailed lizard inhabiting forests and bushes across Africa. Some agamas can be five inches long while others can be a foot long in length and can come in different colors. Read More

Nature present us with beautiful, strange, odd and fascinating creatures. The animal kingdom itself have millions of amazing and special species that many of us have not known or seen. Below is a list of 10 intriguing animals that begin with the letter B.

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Binturong

The Binturong (Arctictis binturong) or the Asian Bearcat is a relatively unknown animal inhabiting trees in the jungles of Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and other Southeast Asian countries. Read More

Nature present us with beautiful, strange, odd and fascinating creatures. The animal kingdom itself have millions of amazing and special species that many of us have not known or seen. Below is a list of 10 fascinating animals whose names begin with the letter C.

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Caterpillar

Caterpillars are the larval stage of butterflies and moths. A voracious feeder, it eat leaves or other parts of plants. Read More

From the fascinating mallard ducks to the gentle Dugongs, these animals whose names start with the letter D simply capture the imaginations of many.

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Dugong

The Dugong (Dugong dugon) is a large marine mammal which are related to manatees, is one of four extant species of the order Sirenia. But do you know that both mammals are related to the elephant. Read More

Guess, the first five animals that you could give are: elephant, eagle, emperor penguin, elephant seal and earthworm. Below is my own list of popular animals that start with the letter E.

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Earwig

Earwigs are dark, reddish-brown insects in the order Dermaptera which are characterized by the pincer-like projections (cerci) on the tip of the abdomen. There are more than 1,000 extant species of earwigs found in North America and Europe. Read More

Ask any kid to name 10 animals whose names start with the letter F, and probably these animals will occupy a place in his list: fish, frog, fox, and flamingo. But the animal kingdom offers us with dozens of F animals. Read on to find out what these animals are.

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Firefly

Fireflies or winged beetles have over 2,000 species found in marshes, wet wooden throughout tropical and temperate areas around the world. They are a familiar sights during summer evenings flashing their signature “cold light”. Read More

From the tallest animal, to the burrowing rodents and to the high-leaping insect; these animals whose names start with the letter G are simply gorgeous-looking.

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Galah

The Galah(Eolophus roseicapilla) also known as the Roseate Cockatoo, Rose-breasted Cockatoo, Galah Cockatoo is found in open habitats in almost all parts of mainland Australia. Read More

If you're asked to name 10 animals whose names start with the letter H, most probably you will have: horse, hare, hounds, husky, housefly, hummingbird on top of your list. But how about adding “ Hoiho and Hoopoe on your list. Have you seen these animals? Probably not! Read on to know more about these animals and eight others whose names begin with H.

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Hoopoe

The Hoopoe (Upupa epops), is an exotic looking bird that is found across Afro-Eurasia. A remarkable feature of hoopoe is its distinctive ‘crown’ of feathers. Read More

From a one-horned rhinoceros, to a rare Japanese cat, down to the biggest living lemur…meet these intriguing animals whose names start with the letter I.

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Ibis

The ibises are a group of medium-sized wading birds with long, slender, down curved bills comprising the family Threskiornithidae. Ibises are found in warm areas worldwide except on South Pacific islands. Read More

Whether on land, water, or air, these J animals demonstrate amazing skills. In search of food or just evading threats, these animals apply different means; sprint, glide, hop, or jump. Whatever the trick is, these J animals have amazing ways to finish the job.

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Jumping spider

The jumping spider (Salticidae) is the largest spider family comprising of about 5,000 known species. They live in a wide range of habitat including; scrub lands, forests, deserts, and mountains. Read More

Kangaroo, koala, kingfisher and killer whale are some of the more popular animals whose names start with the letter K. However, there are more names, one can include to the list. Below is a compilation of 10 more intriguing K animals.

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Krill

Krill or euphausiids, are shrimp-like marine crustaceans swarming in all oceans of the world. These pink, translucent invertebrate have a hard exoskeleton consisting of the cephalon (head), the thorax, and the abdomen. Read More

Langur, Lemmings, Limpkins, Leonberger, What do these animals have in common? They may not be as popular as lion, leopard, lizards, ladybugs and llamas, these L animals are marvelous in their own right. Read on to know more about these animals whose names start with the letter L.

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Lynx

A lynx is a long-legged, medium-sized wild cat inhabiting forests of Europe, Canada, the United States and Asia. This endangered cat has short head, long whiskers, tufted ears, large paws, and a short tail. Read More

From a huge but gentle dog, to a bird with elongated tail feathers down to a white-black-orange banded pet snake, these animals are modish in their own way. Read to learn more about these M animals.

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Macaque

The macaques comprise 19 species of Old World monkeys that are widespread in Asia. One species, Barbary ape ( M. sylvanus ) is found in northern Africa. Read more



Read Amazing Animal Alphabet Series 2 here:

Thursday, October 2, 2014

Six Interesting Animals That Start with The Letter X

Can you give me five animals whose names start with the letter X? Your guess is as good as mine. But I can give you two — a popular aquarium fish and a weird breed of dog. Surprisingly, there are at least 25 animals that starts with X. Here are some of them.

X-Ray Tetra

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The X-Ray Tetra (Pristella maxillaris), also as known as the Golden Pristella Tetra, is a small species of schooling fish that inhabits the coastal waters of the Amazon River. It is the most sought after freshwater fish kept in artificial aquariums today. The most characteristic feature of this colorful fish is its near transparent body, which serves as protection from predators. Furthermore, the species sports a very captivating color pattern – a strikingly banded dorsal and anal fins painted in white, black and yellow color.

Also, the caudal fin has a striking light red or pink coloration, and has a re-tipped tail.

The X-Ray Tetra can reach 5 cm (2 -3 inches) in size. Typically, both sexes are very similar in appearance, though females are much larger and rounder than males. Like other tetras, the species mainly feed on small insects, aquatic plants, small shrimp, worms and other planktonic animals.

Xantus’s Hummingbird

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The Xantus’s Hummingbird (Basilinna xantusii) is a medium-sized hummingbird found only in Baja California. These husky birds inhabit bushes, forests and home gardens. It can reach 8–9 cm long, and weighs about 3-4 g. Adults typically have overall green plumage with cinnamon brown underparts. Other distinctive features include: white eye stripe, large red bill capped with black tip, and orange, Rufous tail. Using a long extendable tongue, these birds sip nectar out of plants. They also take some small spiders and insects like crickets and termite.

Xenops

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Xenops is any of three extant species of passerine birds in the bird family Furnariidae. The species inhabit tropical rain forests of Mexico, Central America and South America. The three species include: Plain Xenops (Xenops minutus), Slender-billed Xenops, (Xenops tenuirostris), and Streaked Xenops (Xenops rutilans.) The species, known for its fast, sharp-sounding song, measures about 12.5 cm (5 in) long.

This lesser-known bird is easily recognized by its near flat beak with upward curved tip (except in the Slender-billed Xenops), long tail, buff or Rufous wing stripe and brown underparts. It feeds mainly on insects (especially ants) by hammering open decaying stumps or bare twigs.

Xenopus

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Xenopus is any of 20 extant species of highly aquatic frogs in the Xenopus genus. Collectively as African Clawed Frogs, the species are native to Sub-Saharan Africa. Xenopus, in particular (Xenopus laevis), is studied for biomedical research.

The genus Xenopus has flattened, oval-shaped and sleek body. The eyes are set on top of the head. All species have no moveable eyelids, eardrums and tongues. It has powerful webbed toes, with three of the toes on each foot have striking black claws. Adult frogs rely on their small forelimbs to forage for food.

Xerus

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Xerus is any of the four species of African ground squirrel found throughout southern Africa. These squirrels prefer grasslands, open woodlands, or rocky country, living in burrows. They live in colonies with comprising about 19 to 20 individuals in a group. Their diet includes: grasses, fruits, seeds, grains, roots, and occasionally, eat insects, small vertebrates and bird eggs. The South African Ground Squirrel does not hibernate.

Xoloitzcuintli

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The Xoloitzcuintli or Xolo, is a hairless breed of dog native to Mexico. Also known as Mexican hairless dog in English speaking countries, the breed comes in toy, miniature and standard sizes. The breed ranges in size from about 10 to 14 inches (toy), 14 to 18 inches (miniature) and 18 to 23 inches (Standard). Average weight is from 4 to 20 kg (10 to 50 lbs.) Color ranges from black, grayish black, bronze, red, or slate gray.

Xolo dog has a sleek, hairless body with a small amount of short, coarse hair on the head and tail. It has a smooth head, long neck, almond-shaped eyes, wrinkled brow, large bat-like ears, and a low-set tail.

The breed is noted for its calm demeanor. The Xolo is agile, alert, athletic, loving, loyal, obedient, and highly intelligent breed of dog. It suits well living in the house, and needs a moderate amount of daily exercise. Just remember, the breed is sensitive to sunlight, so avoid leaving him outdoors for long periods during the day. The coated and the hairless variety of Xolo are very easy to groom and care for. Bathe the dog weekly in order to keep his skin clean. Life Expectancy: About 15 and up to 20 years.

Check out the entire Animal Alphabet list here:
Amazing Animal Alphabet Series 1
Amazing Animal Alphabet Series 2

Monday, July 21, 2014

Seven Intriguing Animals That Start with The Letter V

A list of seven intriguing V animals you probably never heard of.

Verdin

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The Verdin (Auriparus flaviceps) is a very small passerine bird. This tit is the only species in the genus Auriparus and the only North American member of the penduline-tit family (Remizidae). Unlike the tits, it has a medium-length tail and has a sharply pointed bill. Verdins have yellow faces and chestnut shoulder. It is called Baloncillo, Párido del desierto (Spanish) and Auripare verdin (French).

Other interesting facts:

Range: Southern and East Africa
Habitat: Bushy woodlands
Size: Length: 9–11 cm (3.5–4.3 in)
Weight: 5–8 g (0.2–0.3 oz)
Color: Adults have dull gray overall with darker shade on upperparts.
Diet: Omnivore
Prey: Leaves, Fruits, Insects
Lifestyle: Solitary
Conservation Status: Least Concern
Fun Fact: Builds roosting nests all year round.

Vervet

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The Vervet Monkey (Chlorocebus pygerythrus), or simply vervet, is a medium-sized to large monkey of the family Cercopithecidae. There are five distinct subspecies of vervet monkey namely: Chlorocebus pygerythrus excubitor, Chlorocebus pygerythrus nesiotes, Chlorocebus pygerythrus hilgerti, Chlorocebus pygerythrus rufoviridis, and Chlorocebus pygerythrus pygerythrus.

Other interesting facts:

Range: United States and northern Mexico
Habitat: coastal forest, riverine woodland, and savanna
Size: Length: 46cm – 66cm (17.9in – 25.7in)
Weight: 3.5kg – 5kg (7lbs – 10lbs)
Color: overall body color is mostly grizzled-gray.
Most Distinctive Feature: Black face with white ear tufts
Diet: Omnivore
Prey: wide range of fruits, figs, leaves, seeds and flowers
Lifestyle: diurnal and social ; living in groups of up to 72
Age Of Sexual Maturity:2 – 5 years
Gestation Period: 163 days
Average Litter Size:1
Life Span: 12 – 24 years
Conservation Status: Least Concern
Fun Fact: Uses different calls upon detecting different types of predators

Vicuña

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The Vicuña (Vicugna vicugna) or vicugna is the smallest of the six species of camel. The national animal of Peru, this intriguing animal produces a very expensive and extremely fine wool. The vicuña was almost hunted to extinction for its beautiful soft wool.

Other interesting facts:

Range: South America, primarily in the central Andes.
Habitat: Grasslands at elevations of 3,500-5,800 meters
Size:
Body Length: 138-151 cm / 4.6-5 ft.
Shoulder Height: 86-96 cm / 2.8-3.2 ft.
Tail Length: 23 cm / 9.2 in.
Weight: 45-55 kg / 99-121 lb.
Color: The overall color of the soft wooly coat is reddish brown with the underside of the head, and the belly being dirty white.
Distinctive Features: A pompon-like ‘mane’ of silky white hairs adorns the base of the neck
Round head, triangular ears, very long necks, and big, forward facing eyes
Diet: Omnivore
Prey: Grasses.
Lifestyle: diurnal and social; living in groups of 5-20 animals
Age Of Sexual Maturity: Around 24 months
Gestation Period: 330-350 days
Young per Birth: 1
Life Span: 20 – 24 years
Conservation Status: Threatened
Fun Fact: Very shy and constantly alert, vicuñas will flee at the slightest sign of danger.

Visayan Warty Pig

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The Visayan Warty Pig (Sus cebifrons) is a small, forest-dwelling pig endemic to the Philippines. It gets its name from the three pairs of fleshy “warts” present on the pig’s face.

Range: Visayan islands of Negros and Panay in the Philippines
Habitat: Dense rain forest as well as grasslands
Size:
Head and body length: About 100 cm
Shoulder height: 58 to 63 cm (males)
Tail length: 23 cm
Adult weight: up to 80 kg (males)
Color: The overall color is dark gray
Distinctive Features: The body is sparsely covered with bristly hairs
A tuft of hair in between the ears
Distinctive white stripe which runs over the bridge of the nose behind the mouth.
Diet: Omnivorous; feeds mainly on fruits, roots, and tubers
Lifestyle: tend to live in groups of four to six
Age Of Sexual Maturity: As young as 12-14 months
Gestation Period: 118 days
Young per Birth: 2-4, with 3 being the average
Life Span: 10-15 years
Conservation Status: Critically endangered (2008)
Fun Fact: a Visayan Warty pig would grow manes, giving it a Mohawk façade

Vireo

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The Vireos are small to medium-sized passerine birds confined to the New World. This intriguing animal derives its name from the Latin for “I am green”). The family comprises three distinct groups: The true vireos, the peppershrikes and shrike-vireos, and the greenlets. Most species are non-migratory.

Other interesting facts:

Range: Most species are found in found in northern South America, Central America or Mexico
Habitat: inhabit forest canopies, or mangrove swamps
Size: depending on species;
Length: 10 to 17 cm They range in size from the Choco Vireo, Dwarf Vireo and Lesser Greenlet, all at Weight: 8 to 40 grams
Color: Typically dull-plumaged and greenish in color
Diet: mainly on insects and other arthropods as well as some fruits
Lifestyle: occur in pairs or family groups
Conservation Status: Least Concern
Fun Fact: Males of most species are persistent singers

Vizcacha

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Viscachas or vizcachas are are five extant species of medium-sized rat in the family Chinchillidae. These include: Plains viscacha (Lagostomus maximus), Northern viscacha (Lagidium peruanum), Mountain viscacha (Lagidium viscacia), Wolffsohn’s viscacha (Lagidium wolffsohni), and Lagidium ahuacaense.

Though they resemble rabbits, they are closely related to chinchillas.

Other interesting facts:

Range: endemic to Argentina
Habitat: inhabit rocky desert and arid environments
Size:
Length: 11 to 18 cm (4.3 to 7.1 in)
Weight: 85 to 121 grams (3.0 to 4.3 oz).
Color: has light brown fur with white underparts
Distinct Features: relatively long, bushy tail measuring about 12 to 16 cm (4.7 to 6.3 in) long
the presence of numerous whiskers on top of the mouth
Diet: herbivorous; feed on leaves, fruits and seeds as well as some fruits
Lifestyle: nocturnal and solitary

Vole

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Voles are small rodents comprising more than 150 species. It resembles a mouse but with a solid body, a slightly rounder heads, and smaller eyes and ears. Some of the species of voles include: Southern red-backed voles (Clethrionomys gapperi), Long-tailed voles (Microtus longicaudus), Mexican voles (Microtus mexicanus), and Prairie voles (Microtus ochrogaster).

Other interesting facts:

Range: Different vole species are found all over North America
Habitat: underground tunnels and burrows
Size:
Length: About 4 to 8.5 inches long
Weight: 0.8 to 3 ounces
Color: vary in color from brown to gray
Diet: barks, fruits, grasses, leaves, stems, Roots,
Lifestyle: are active day and night throughout the year
Age Of Sexual Maturity: 1 month
Gestation Period: 20 to 23 days
Young per Birth: 3-5 pups per litter
Life Span: 2-6 months
Fun Fact: A female vole can have 80 offspring in a year!

Check out the entire Animal Alphabet list here:
Amazing Animal Alphabet Series 1
Amazing Animal Alphabet Series 2

Sunday, April 27, 2014

10 Fascinating Birds That Start with The Letter Y

They may not be as beautiful or as popular compared to their more illustrious cousins, but certainly these birds whose names start with the letter Y are simply colorful and fascinating creatures.

Yellow-billed Kingfisher

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The Yellow-billed Kingfisher (Syma torotoro) is a medium-sized kingfisher widespread in New Guinea and in northern Australia. This fascinating bird prefers monsoon forest and rainforest as habitat. The species feeds on earthworms, lizards and larger insects. Adult males measure 20 cm long, with a wingspan of about 29 cm, and weigh around 40 g. It has a large head, a sturdy body, long pointed bill, white throat, and broad blue tail.

This highly territorial tree kingfisher is well-known for its characteristic yellow coloration. Generally, the head and neck are orange in color with black patches on the nape. It has dark olive-black flight feathers and a dull green-blue upperwings. Voice: calls include loud, repeated whistling trills. Conservation status: Least Concern.

Yellow-billed Stork

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The Yellow-billed Stork (Mycteria ibis)is a large wading bird, widespread in East Africa and Madagascar. The species prefers aquatic habitats such as; mud flats, coastal lagoons, shallow lakes, large marshes, flooded grasslands, meadows and rice paddies. It feeds mostly on crustaceans, frogs, insects, small fish, and worms. Adult male measures to about 90 – 105 cm tall and weighs up to 2.3 kg. The yellow-billed stork is listed as Least Concern (LC) on the IUCN Red List.

This species has a characteristic yellow bill, almost white plumage, except for the flight feathers and tail which are black. the with red skin at its base that extends onto its face. The long, slightly downward-curved bill is tailor-made for catching its prey. Furthermore, its long dark-red legs serve as a body-stabilizer while searching in water for prey. Yellow-billed storks have a creative way to catch prey – using one foot to stir up the water which disturbs and flushes out possible victim.

Yellow-crowned Night Heron

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The Yellow-crowned Night Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) is a small heron widespread throughout warmer regions of North America. These migratory birds prefer wetland habitats during the breeding season. Adults measure to about 61 cm long and weigh 625 grams. Adults have gray body, black face with white stripe below the eye, black bill, red eyes, and yellow legs.

Adults have gray body, black face with white stripe below the eye, black bill, red eyes, and yellow legs. A night predator, they stalk their prey or wait in ambush along marshes, shorelines, and fields. Then they pounce on their prey and grab hold of it in their bill. These fascinating birds feed on aquatic insects, crustaceans, frogs, mollusks, and small fish.

Yellow-Eyed Penguin

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The Yellow-eyed Penguin (Megadyptes antipodes) is a penguin endemic to New Zealand. The Hoiho, as it is also called, lives and breeds in the coastal forest of New Zealand on and around Stewart Island and Campbell Islands. Both sexes work together to build their nest (a shallow bowl shape in the ground) far away in the forest or thick grasses. Yellow-eyed Penguin is classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List 2007.

On average, the species measures around 62–79 cm (24–31 in) long and weighs from 4.5 to 6 kilograms (10 to 13 pounds.) This fascinating bird can easily be recognized by its light-yellow head and yellow-orange cat-like eyes with black feather shafts. They also have a band of bright yellow feathers running from the bill and circling the eyes and around the back of the head. These birds are slate grey with a white breast. This species of penguin feed mostly on fish and occasionally cephalopods such as the arrow squid.

Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoo

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The Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus funereus) is a large cockatoo widespread in forested regions of the south-east of Australia. Their preferred habitats include: grassy woodland, riparian forest, and pine plantations This species of birds nest in hollows positioned high in Eucalyptus trees. Generally, adult male measures 55–65 cm (22–26 in) long and weighs around 750–900 grams.

Unlike other dark-plumaged birds, the Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoo sports yellow tail and ear markings. Overall, it is brownish black in color with body plumage edged with yellow. The adult male has a short crest crowing the top of its head, long, black beak and pinkish-red eye rings. Much of the diet comprises tree-boring beetles, fruits and seeds of native trees. Like other cockatoos, this species is long-lived. The Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoo is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Yellow-throated Warbler

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The Yellow-throated Warbler (Setophaga dominica) is a small woodland songbird species that nests and forages for insects and spiders high in the canopy of pine forests. These migratory birds breed in temperate North America, wintering on the Gulf Coast, Cuba, and the Caribbean.

Some distinguishable features of these fascinating birds include: Yellow throat and chest; head has characteristic black and white pattern; gray back and wings; white eye stripes and ear patch; white belly with black on the flanks; and long black bill. Adult male measures 13 – 14 cm long with 8.5-inch wingspan, and weighs 9 – 11 g. Its diet consists mainly of caterpillars, insects, and spiders. IUCN Red List species status – Least Concern.

Yellowhammer

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The Yellowhammer (Emberiza citrinella) is a passerine bird that prefers open areas, hedgerows, and agricultural farms as habitat. The species breed across Europe and much of Asia. Females built cup-shaped nests on the ground with grasses, hedgerows, or shrubs. Due to its declining population, the Yellowhammer is on the Red List species.

This fascinating bird averages to about 15.5–17 cm long, a 23-29 cm (9-11″) wing, and weighs 24-30 g (¾-1 oz.) It has a characteristic thick seed-eater’s bill, brown back lined with black, yellow head and belly, and a chestnut rump. The species feeds mainly on insects and seeds.

Yellow-legged Gull

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The Yellow-legged Gull (Larus michahellis) is any of two species of large migratory gulls widespread in Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. These fascinating birds prefer coastal marshes, lakes, reservoir and fields as habitat. Depending on the species, they measure to about 52 to 68 cm (20 to 27 in) tall, 120 to 155 cm (47 to 61 in) in wingspan, and weigh around 550 to 1,600 g (1.2 to 3.5 lbs.) Adults have a gray back, and yellow bill marked with a large red spot. Eyes are black with red rings, and pinkish gray legs. Yellow-legged Gulls are known omnivores and feed mostly on carcasses

Yellow-legged Thrush

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The Yellow-legged Thrush (Turdus flavipes) is a songbird whose range covers northern and eastern South America. The species are found in rainforest, woodlands, and agricultural lands. This thrush forage tree, bushes and at times on the ground feeding mostly on fruits and berries. This shy species of thrush built nests of twigs on rocks and on banks using twigs.

The Yellow-legged Thrush is mostly black in color with eye-ring and legs. Males have yellow bills while females have a duller bills. Adults measure 22–23 cm (8.7–9.1 in) long and weighs 55–70 g (1.9–2.5 Oz). The species is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN.

Yellowthroat

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The Common Yellowthroat (Geothlypis trichas) are small songbird found in Mexico, North America and Central America. The breeding habitats of these migratory birds include dense shrubs, marshes and thickets. They are solitary or may be found in pairs.

Common Yellowthroats have olive backs, wings and tails, white bellies, yellow breasts and throats, and a slim, pointed, black bills. Adult males have black face masks of uneven extent, which are bordered above with white or gray. They can reach 5 inches in length and with a wingspan of about 7-8-inch. They feed mostly on insects.

Check out the entire Animal Alphabet list here:
Amazing Animal Alphabet Series 1
Amazing Animal Alphabet Series 2

Wednesday, April 2, 2014

10 Fascinating Birds That Start with The Letter W

They may not be as colorful as the turacos, lovable as the talking-parrots or as agile as the fierce raptors — but these birds are indeed fascinating! Read on and learn more about them.

This is the penultimate post to a 25-part of the highly-commendable and widely read the ‘Alphabet Animal’ series. Presenting – the fascinating birds that start with the letter V. Read on and learn more interesting facts about them.

Waxwing

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The Waxwing (Bombycillidae) are any of three species of passerine birds found in North America and in eastern Asia. The Bohemian Waxwing (Bombycilla garrulus) and Cedar Waxwing (B. cedrorum) are the two North American species and the third species is the Japanese Waxwing (B. japonica). All three species have mainly soft silky brown plumage characterized by unique red tips in some parts of the wing feathers.

These fascinating birds prefer woodlands and open areas. The eyes are marked with a black line. The bill, throat, short legs and feet are dark. Waxwings have pointed crest and square-ended tail with a red or yellow tip. These are arboreal birds known for their high-pitched calls feed mainly on berries and occasionally eat insects.

Wattlebird

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Wattlebirds (Anthochaera) or Warty-faced Honey-eater, are any of three birds of the Honeyeater, endemic to native to Australia. The species characterized by their brightly colored wattles include the Yellow Wattlebird, the Red Wattlebird, the Little Wattlebird, and the Western Wattlebird. The large wattles (about half an inch long) hang down below each ear. The species may come with brown, gray or white plumage.

Whimbrel

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The Whimbrel (Numenius phaeopus) is a fairly large wader with distinctive long down-curved bills. A migratory species distributed worldwide, these waders breed across much of North America, Africa, Europe and Asia. On average, adult wattlebirds measure 37–47 cm (15–19 in) and weigh about 270–493 g (9.5–17.4 oz). The species is characterized by grayish-brown plumage with white back and rump, striped head with dark crown, a long curved bill and long legs. Whimbrels feeds by probing soft mud for burrowing crabs. It also eats fish, insects, worms, and small aquatic invertebrates.

White-eyed Vireo

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The White-eyed Vireo (Vireo griseus) is a small songbird widespread in shrubby areas of southeastern USA. The species forage methodically among leaves gleaning insects as it moves. This fascinating bird is more known for its explosive song than its looks. Generally, white-eyed vireo measures 13 – 15 cm long. Its head and back sports grayish-olive feathers. The underbody has white plumage laced with yellow flanks. Eyes have white irises encircled with yellow spectacles. Tail and wings are dark (each wing sporting white wing bar.) During the summer season, white-eyed vireos feed mostly on insects but will also eat berries, snails, and small lizards.

Wigeon

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The Wigeon is any of three species of medium-sized duck in the genus Anas. The species flock in great number and breed on wet grasslands, open moor, lakes, and occasionally on coastal marshes. All three species have round heads and short bill. Breeding drakes (males) have chestnut-colored heads, pink chests, white bellies, gray backs and predominantly black tails. Wigeons generally measure 48 cm in length with an 80 cm wingspan and about 800 g in weight. It feeds mostly on leaves, shoots, and some seeds. This fascinating bird is well-known for its ‘wheeooo’ whistling call.

Wood Stork

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The Wood Stork (Mycteria americana) is a wading bird native to North America and the only stork that breeds in the United States. A large wetland bird , it inhabits marshes, swamps, streams, coastal areas and ponds in the southern United States. The species is also a breeding bird in South America in particular Argentina. Adult males measure 83–115 cm (33–45 in) tall with a 140–180 cm (58–71 in) wingspan and weigh around 2.5–3.3 kg (5.5-7.3 lbs). Typically, wood stork sports all-white plumage with blackish-gray skinny legs and pink feet. It has black, bald head and a thick, down-curved bill. Its diet includes: small fish, snails, tadpoles, insects, and aquatic invertebrates.

Willet

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The Willet (Tringa semipalmata)is a large, stocky shorebird characterized by its long gray legs and straight bill. The species breeds from central Canada to northeastern California and winters along the Atlantic Coast. It prefers freshwater and salt marshes, coastal beaches, and wet prairies. Willet has drab plumage with white and black pattern running across each wing. The underparts are lighter in color and the tail is white laced with a dark band at the tip. Adult males measure about 13-15 inches in length. This fascinating bird feeds on small crabs, marine worms, fish, and aquatic insects.

Woodcock

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The Woodcock is any of eight species of wading birds in the genus Scolopax. Only two species namely: the Eurasian Woodcock (Scolopax rusticola) and the American Woodcock (Scolopax minor) are widespread, the others including the Philippine Woodcock (Scolopax bukidnonensis) are local island endemics. The species prefers moist woodlands. Another fascinating bird, it is generally blackish/brown in color with long slender bill. Its large eyes is well-positioned on the sides of its head. Adult males can measure up to 10 to 11 inches long and weigh 4 to 7 ounces. This bird feeds mainly on earthworms, insect larva, grubs and other invertebrates.

Wren

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The Wrens are any of the 80 extant species of passerine birds in the family Troglodytidae. Depending on the species, wrens inhabit a wide range of habitats – from dry, wooded areas, rocky coasts, rainforest, and cultivated land. It is easily recognized by its generally drab plumage; small, round body and its distinctive small tail. Depending on the species, wrens measure 10 cm or less (3.9 in) – 22 cm (8.7 in) and weigh from 9 grams (0.32 oz) – 50 grams (1.8 oz). Most species feed on insects, spiders, larvae and occasionally seeds and fruits.

Wryneck

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The Wrynecks (genus Jynx) are small sparrow-sized bird comprising the genus Jynx. These Old World woodpeckers have two extant species; the Eurasian Wryneck (Jynx torquilla) and the Rufous-necked Wryneck (Jynx ruficollis). It is widespread in most of Europe and parts of central Asia. The species prominent features include a large head, long, sticky tongue, and short, dagger-like bills.

Both species sport cryptic plumage with flashes of gray and brown patterns. On average, males measure long with a 26 cm wingspan and up to 38 grams in weight. Wrynecks feed mostly on ants, but also eat other small insects. This fascinating bird has the ability to twist its neck up to 180 degrees.

Check out the entire Animal Alphabet list here:
Amazing Animal Alphabet Series 1
Amazing Animal Alphabet Series 2