|
The following bird species have been recorded on the Fermilab site, but have
not been included in the site list since they are almost certainly escaped from
captivity. Feral breeding populations are not known to exist in the area and
they are extremely unlikely to have arrived here naturally.
Egyptian Goose
This non-migratory species from Africa is often kept in waterfowl collections
and has been seen twice on site among flocks of migrating Canada Geese. The
first record was from Main Ring lake and the second was from the bison field.
Ruddy Shelduck
This is a rare eurasian species which is also popular with waterfowl collectors.
In February of 2003 one was found on Main Ring Lake.
Chukar
This european game bird has well established feral populations in the Rocky
Mountains States and is popular with aviarists. One was seen crossing the road
in the village in October, 2010 and another was seen along the bike path
across from the Bison Field in October, 2013.
Cockatiel
This small cockatoo is native to Australia and is a very popular cage bird. One
was found perched on Wilson Hall late in September, 2005.
Nanday Parakeet
Also called "Black-headed Conure" this parrot is native to South America and was
seen on site near the intersection of Eola rd. and Wilson st.
Budgerigar
This small Australian parrot is a very popular cage bird that was seen feeding
in the grasses by the Bison Wallow
Common Waxbill
A popular cage bird, this African species was found in the center of the main
ring.
Yellow Grosbeak
This bird was seen on site during on Dec 15, 2001, during the Christmas Bird Count.
This species normally occurs in Central America and occasionally strays across the
Mexican border into southern states such as Arizona. The only other record from northern
states (that I am aware of) is on from Iowa which was found in the winter of 1995.
Given the paucity of records this far north and the potential for this species to be kept
in aviaries one has to assume that this was an escaped bird. However, it is not inconceivable
that it was a genuine vagrant.
European Greenfinch
This European finch has been introduced into both Australia and South America
and is regularly reported in the U.S. One was found along Eola rd. in April,
2005.
| 