Songbirds | Passeri
Perching birds are the largest order of all birds, almost half of all bird species are included in the perching bird order. Perching birds are distinguished by the formation of their toes, with 3 toes in the front and one strong toe in the back that supports their ability to perch. Perching birds are sometimes referred to as songbirds, and some species are born knowing their songs and others learn their songs from other birds. All the young perching birds are hatched as featherless and helpless and rely on their parents for feeding. Perching birds are found all over the world and come in wide variety of colors and sizes.
Songbirds typically eat a variety of foods including insects, seeds, berries, nectar, and fruit. Much of a songbird’s diet consists of insects and this helps farmers keep insects from damaging crops. Some birds can eat as many as 300 insects a day during the summer season.
The best way to attract songbirds is to plant native shrubs, vines, and trees. Other methods are to provide a water source, create a songbird border by placing trees and shrubs that meet the needs of songbirds, and rake leaves under shrubs. It is also recommended to reduce lawn space by at least 25%.
Songbirds sing to defend themselves as well as impress others. Although singing can take a lot of their energy they do so to claim and defend their territory against potential predators. Singing is also part of their mating process and may attract any potential mates as well as inform them of their overall health.
