Rufous Bristlebird, Francesco Veronesi from Italy, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Hey kids, welcome back to our series on the mysteries of created kinds.
This week, we head to the coasts of Australia, looking for small songbirds.
Last week’s kind was a very small group, and this week it gets even smaller with only three species in this week’s kind. This kind is threatened by Australia’s susceptibility to wildfire. However, these birds tend to be smart enough to flee fire-threatened areas and come back once the fire has passed.1 This recolonization depends on how long it takes for the habitat to become suitable for them again.2 Usually, territories are held by pairs.3 They prefer denser vegetation with at least some canopy height.4 For their diet, they are partial to ants and beetles but will eat most insects and other terrestrial invertebrates.5
Has anyone figured it out yet? This week’s kind is the Dasyornithidae—the bristlebird kind. I know we have written a lot about birds recently, but never fear—all you junior herpetologists out there get an article next week.
Try out this fun crossword puzzle!
Here is your clue for next week:
This snake kind takes its name from its diminutive size and digging lifestyle.
Have you ever had a question about created kinds but didn’t know who to ask? Have you ever wanted to learn more about your favorite kind? Well, now you can! You can ask me, Inspector Barry Mins, a question! Have your parents help you fill out this form, and you might get your question answered in my column! If you have any questions about created kinds, feel free to send them my way!