surrey-bc_biodiversity's Journal

"Why are bird names important? We use names to identify and communicate about bird species. Names help us connect with and talk about birds in a meaningful way. There are many considerations for what makes a good name. For example, stability is important to the usefulness of names; the longer a name has been in use, the more likely it will be remembered, recognized, and attributed correctly. If a name is derogatory or conjures ill feelings for people, however, it detracts from the focus, appreciation, or consideration of the birds themselves. The AOS Council is committed to addressing such potential barriers to engaging a wide and diverse set of audiences in our shared enjoyment and study of birds."

Further info: https://americanornithology.org/about/english-bird-names-project/american-ornithological-society-council-statement-on-english-bird-names/

Some great background info and video on one of our rarest birds in the Surrey area. This cryptic insectivore nests near waterfalls and other steep terrain with moist microclimates.
https://www.birdscanada.org/helping-to-unravel-the-mysteries-of-the-black-swift?

Thanks to one of our top observers, Frank Lin (@fylin), we've had these chunky cousins of the nighthawk identified in Surrey over the past few summers (https://inaturalist.ca/observations/125136000).

Which begs the question, where exactly are they nesting? We don't really have steep canyon-like areas or high waterfalls!