article thumbnail

Birding Tanjung Aru Beach, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

10,000 Birds

As usual when species are well-examined, the number of subspecies seems to multiply, though apparently some of these subspecies have recently been culled in order to simplify the life of birders. When Sunda Pygmy Woodpeckers want to enjoy a day out on the beach, they also come to Tanjung Aru. But it would take many years.

Malaysia 249
article thumbnail

Oostvaardersplassen

10,000 Birds

Nowadays, the numbers are being controlled through culling. but walking to the Schollevaar hide I saw Common Chaffinch, Eurasian Tree Sparrow , European Stonechat , Eurasian Blackbird , Eurasian Blue Tit , Common Kestrel and even a Great Spotted Woodpecker. Actually, no, they just starved to death for lack of care. It was awful.

Beavers 143
article thumbnail

“A Little Bird Told Me” … Happy Birthday Charles Darwin

10,000 Birds

The most commonly cited example is “Darwin’s Finch,” which filled the woodpecker niche by adopting the practice of acquiring a cactus thorn, and using this to access grubs hidden beneath the bark of trees. ground vs. in bushes, etc.) Thus, to the Grants, a dead finch is a very important piece of data.

Tortoises 204