Apr
26
Long-billed Curlew Plentiful In Montana
April 26, 2014 | Leave a Comment
The Long-billed Curlew is just one species visitors will see when visiting Montana. The shoreline birds are also known as sicklebirds, or the candlestick bird. This species is the biggest nesting bird in North America. Typically, the bird is cinnamon in color on its breasts with brown streaks on its crown.
This Curlew builds small hollows for nesting and will lay four eggs. The eggs will be different colors including olive, white, and off white. When the chicks are ready to leave the nest, it is a wonderful site to see. The leave shortly after hatching while both parents look after them.
Visitors to Montana will usually see the Long-billed Curlews in flocks. The birds will use their long bills to probe deeply into the muddy areas in search of food. They like to eat beetles, insects, and even grass hoppers. Sometimes, curlews are known to eat the eggs of other nearby birds.
In years past, Long-billed Curlews were hunted and the population was decreasing. Recently, research has shown an increase in populations once again. The increase is seen widespread throughout the usual locations of the species.
Do you enjoy seeing birds like the Long-billed Curlews? Do you enjoy being out in the open wildlife in a peaceful location? Montana is a great place to visit and enjoy the benefits of bird watching. It is also a place like no other when it comes to being in the great outdoors!
Photo Information: This photo is provided by and given credit to Mike Baird – on Flickr.com with permission via Creative Commons Licensing.