10,000 Birds

JUNE 20, 2012

Cliff Swallows migrate to North America from their wintering grounds in South America to nest in large colonies, sometimes numbering in the thousands. It is illegal for any person to take, possess, transport, sell, or purchase them or their parts, such as feathers, nests, or eggs, without a permit.

San Diego 165

San Diego illegal California South America 165

10,000 Birds

AUGUST 13, 2013

Let’s explore some of these far-off places and the birds that find shelter here. Two of the remotest islands in the world are Easter Island in the South-eastern Pacific and Bouvet Island in the South Atlantic. Its numbers are declining rapidly due to feral cats and this duck is currently listed as vulnerable.

Birds 210

Birds South Africa South America Feral Cats 210

10,000 Birds

SEPTEMBER 15, 2014

As summer ends these same birds (and the new year’s broods) then escape the snow and ice and head south for the austral summer, finding warmth, long days and abundant insect life. Nests are usually made in a sheltered cleft in rocks. Anywhere from 3-8 very pale blue eggs are laid, incubated by both parents.

Africa 201

Africa Somalia North America Nigeria 201