5 Unusual Bird Nests That Demonstrate The Creativity Of Nature

When it comes to building nests, birds use a variety of locations and materials. Mud, twigs, leaves, silk, hay and pebbles are all used to create a shelter. A nest is meant to act as a safe haven for young and a home to come back to. But not all nests are created in the same way. Some birds go to great lengths to develop structures that are as weird as they are wonderful. From tiny knot cavities to giant haystack complexes, here are five unusual bird nests.

Audubon: On The Wings Of The World Review: An Engrossing Graphic Novel

Graphic novels are one of the best ways to tell a story because they use art to get a certain message across. I love reading graphic novels so much that I have a website dedicated to them. I’ll be reviewing books and graphic novels on The Avian Review that are related to birds, which is why I was happy to come across Audubon: On The Wings Of The World. Created by Fabien Grolleau and Jeremie Royer, the graphic novels focuses on the life of John James Audubon, one of history’s greatest ornithologists. Audubon’s passion for birds is captured in great detail, with Royer and Grolleau presenting a romanticised view on him.

Halcyon Days

It started with a leap
From a cliff at the edge of the world
Where the descent felt everlasting
we plunged together
reckless youth
forcing our future
like small gods drunk on divinity
jagged rocks rose from uncertainty
time and tide swept us apart
into storms we needed to conquer
they tried to drown you
so you held your breath
until the buzzing of bees
carried you to a familiar place
where kingfishers catch memories
from a wind-beaten shore
I stood upon the beach
lighthouse bright
welcoming halcyon days
that quelled the maelstrom
so we could spend every winter
at peace within ourselves

Devil Bird

Come fell touch of dark,
when the skin of the world
is peeled back
does the devil bird awaken
ghost-winged
with feathers made from autumn leaves
to better conceal inscrutable heart
only the churring is heard
vigorous, vehement buzzing
from which old tales conjure
goats sucked dry of milk
of witches cackling in twilight
and yet the sound of superstition plays on
for the devil bird cavorts in moonlight
capering after sun-drunk moths
who flit towards dawn’s fickle embrace
and by morning glare does the devil bird flee
carrying plucked dreams
shadows could not seize

Bird Watching In Reykjavik And Beyond

When it comes to bird watching, Iceland is one of the best countries in the world to visit. I recently took a trip to Reykjavik and was blown away by the variety of wildlife that’s thriving inside and out of the city. Over my four day trip, I came into contact with all manner of birds, so I’m going to describe what it’s like to be in Iceland for anyone who is interested in checking out the avian wildlife.

How Kingfishers Are A Representation Of Inner Peace

The Kingfisher is one of the most vibrant birds in the world, recognisable by its electric blue feathers, fiery chest and distinctive build. The species is also famous for the way it captures food, shooting into lakes and rivers like a bullet. Kingfishers are one of my favourite birds, with them holding a lot of significance in certain cultures. I’m going to explore how kingfishers have been represented throughout history and what the bird means to me on a personal level.

What It Feels Like To Have A Golden Eagle On Your Arm

Seeing birds of prey in flight is a spectacular experience and falconry is a great way to get up close and personal. Having done falconry a couple of times, I can say it’s exciting to be around different kinds of birds. My favourite session had to be the time I had a golden eagle on my arm. The golden eagle is my favourite kind of bird because it’s the total package: power, beauty and speed all rolled into one. Being close to a golden eagle brought on a mixture of emotions and this is what it felt like.

Understanding The Migratory Pattern Of The Nightjar And Its Haunting Song

Every year, thousands of birds migrate to the UK for breeding and habitat preferences. One of the most fascinating visitors is the nightjar, which migrates from Africa and arrives in Britain for the summer months. The nightjar is interesting because of the folklore that’s associated with it and its distinctive song.

Mythological Birds: Caladrius

Mythological Birds is a segment that looks into the history of legendary birds from different cultures. The creatures that are featured in the series have either been imagined or are based around existing animals. For the opening segment, I’m looking at the Caladrius, a creature from Greek and Roman mythology. Associated with Christianity, the Caladrius is meant to have healing powers.

How To Attract A Robin To Your Garden And Make Sure It Stays

The UK is filled with all manner of birds, and they don’t come more popular than the robin. Named the national bird of Britain, robins are associated with Christmas and good cheer. Despite their small size, these tenacious birds are extremely territorial, defending their ranges with everything they have. Robins are ideal for representing the resiliency of Britain, so naturally you’ll want them in your garden. I’ve put together a guide on how you can attract a robin.