December 19, 2010

Even though it's not baby bird season, our rehabbers are always working and planning ahead.  Today our dedicated rehabbers got together to review protocols and start writing new ones.  Diets are always being updated or changed, new medications are coming out to replace outdated ones, and training opportunities abound.   Because of these advances, we are seeing higher release rates and more success stories.   Rest assured, when the 2011 baby bird season gets here, Wild Bird Rescue and its group of dedicated volunteers will be ready.  Phee Phew!

December 12, 2010

Saturday we had the official ribbon cutting ceremony for the Brittani Maye Gossett Memorial Aviary a.k.a my aviary where I live.  Brittani Gossett and her family were killed in a tragic plane crash.  Cutting the ribbon is Melanie Gossett, Brittani's grandmother.   I am so proud of my new mew.  My wish is that Brittani's memory will live on through me.  Phee Phew!

December 8, 2010

One rehabber recently described this time of year as the “bent and broken” season.  Sadly most birds we see in the winter have been injured.  We might get in a Great Horned Owl which has been hit by a car or find a Cedar Waxwing that struck a window.  The cost of feeding and veterinary care of these injured birds can be quite expensive.  That’s why it is so important for your giving to be year round.  Just think…what would Wichita Falls be like without a place like Wild Bird Rescue?  Phee Phew!

December 2, 2010

This handsome turkey vulture was one of our birds brought in to us by animal control.  It was found on the ground and couldn’t fly.  X-rays showed a clean break and the bones were aligned nicely.   It just needed some R & R and then time in a large flight aviary to regain its strength.  We transported this turkey vulture to South Plains Rehabilitation Center in Lubbock because they have a flight aviary large enough for a bird this size.  Our goal at WBR is to someday have a raptor aviary large enough so we will no longer need to transport larger birds which come to us.  Phee Phew!

December 1, 2010

Wild Bird Rescue took in a nestling barn owl which fell from its nest high up in a warehouse.  Since we were unable to get it back in the nest, two of our volunteers transported it to South Plains Wildlife Rehabilitation Center in Lubbock, Texas where they have a foster mother owl.  This is a face only a mother could love!  I should be jealous because Lila is holding it.   But since its now at another facility, I guess I've got nothing to worry about.  I hope Gail Barnes at South Plains enjoys her early Christmas present from us!  Phee Phew!

November 29, 2010

Wild Bird Rescue's new website is up and running.  On our site you can see some of the birds we have rehabilitated and returned back to the wild.  You can also sponsor a bird such as me!   If shopping is your thing, we have an online store or if you are in the giving mood...just make a donation.  We have a link to Bob's Wild Bird Rescue blog, Penny's A Charm of Finches blog and of course, my blog.  You can subscribe to all three and get updates via email.  I hope you will visit our new site at wwwildbirdrescueinc.org and let me know what you think!!!
Phee Phew!

November 24, 2010

At this special time of year of sharing and giving thanks for all we have, I just wanted to add "I'm thankful I'm not a TURKEY!"   Phew Phew!

November 17, 2010

I had a great time at the PETS Pantry First Annual Community Food Drive and Purina Rally to the Rescue Event.  I met many very nice folks who were  interested in my story.  I especially enjoyed being the subject of so many photographs.  There was a mountain of pet food donated.  Wild Bird Rescue did pretty well too.  We sold several Audubon birds, WBR note cards, and our new 2011 Rescue Calendar.  Oh, by the way...did I tell you November is my favorite month in our new calendar?  November features ME!  If you would like to purchase a 2011 calendar then please call WBR at 940-691-0828.  Phee Phew!

November 12, 2010

PETS Pantry and Purina Rally to the Rescue present the 1st Annual Community Pet Food Drive.  The event will be held at Berend's Landing, 500 Wichita Street from 10:00-2:00 tomorrow-Nov. 13.  Come join the fun...and don't forget to bring a pet food donation.  I'll be there along with Lila and Bob to represent Wild Bird Rescue.  Phee Phew!!!

November 10, 2010

Winter is one of my favorite times at Wild Bird Rescue.  From my perch, I can see Lake Wichita and all the activities taking place on the water.  I especially like the birds that choose this lake for their winter homes.  I thought I would take a few minutes to pen some facts about a few of our wintering guests.  One which always fascinates me is the White Pelican.  I like to think of this bird as the Boeing C-17 of the lake.  This huge bird seems to be circling in slow motion as it makes its final approach for landing.  The American White Pelican is one of the largest birds in North America. The White Pelican does not dive for its food. Instead it catches its prey while swimming. Another unusual wintering guest is the American Coot.  This bird is often mistaken for a duck but is really a common waterbird.  What makes the coot so striking is the all black coloration against the white beak.  American Coots are noisy, gregarious members of the rail family.  One of the last vacationers I’ll share about today is the Double-crested Cormorant. The Double-crested Cormorant is a little more than two feet long with a wingspan of about four feet. It has dark brown to black feathers, a long hooked bill with an orange throat pouch, a long tail, and webbed black feet.  Some fishermen consider this bird a nuisance but I personally love watching them dive for food.  Well I hope you have enjoyed my mini-lesson about some of our wintering guests on Lake Wichita.  Students…I’ll be sharing more later this week.  Phee Phew!

November 7, 2010

Glad to see Lila back at Wild Bird Rescue today.  She has been out with a stomach virus.  Things just aren't the same without her there.  I always eat more when she does her special little whistle for me.  Today I weighed in at 284 grams and I ate a total of 28 superworms.  Delicious!!!

November 4, 2010

I wanted to introduce you to one of my new friends and followers Angad Achappa.  He is an engineering student and a wonderful photographer.  With Lila's help, I have added a link to his blog so all my friends could have the opportunity to see wildlife from the other side of the world.   His work is amazing.  Of course I am partial to the bird shots but I can handle the Bengal Tiger...from a distance!  Phee Phew!

November 1, 2010

Well Lila sure is happy about the cold weather finally arriving to North Texas.  However, I am not a happy at all.  You see, Mississippi Kites don’t do well in temperatures below 32 degrees which is why I have a secondary mew set up inside the main building.  Lila will be moving me inside tonight because we had a cold front move into the area.  Ahhhhhh…nice perch, plenty of sunshine and four solid walls make this ol’ one-eyed Mississippi Kite one very happy bird.  Phee Phew!

October 26, 2010

I smelled something really bad at the rescue center the other day.  I asked Lila what was going on.  She explained we had a turkey vulture come in which couldn’t fly.  She proceeded to fill me in on the turkey vulture’s natural history. Vultures are best known for their practice of feeding on dead animal carcasses.  So that’s what I smelled!  The turkey vulture is one of North America's largest birds of prey. It reaches a length of 32 inches with a wing span of 6 feet. The turkey vulture has few natural predators.  Its primary form of defense is vomiting. They simply cough up a lump of semi-digested meat.  This foul smelling substance deters most creatures.  I’ll say, it sure deterred me…I wouldn’t come within a hundreds yards of that smelly bird!  The turkey vulture often directs its urine right onto its legs.  In the summertime, wetting the legs cools the vulture, as the urine evaporates.  Okay…OKAY!  I’ve heard enough…too much information!  Phee Phew!

October 18, 2010

My friend Gail Barnes will be coming to Wild Bird Rescue on Friday.  Lila knows her too.  Gail is the Education Coordinator for South Plains Wildlife Rehabiltation Center in Lubbock, Texas.  She helped Lila in establishing the first eduational program at Wild Bird Rescue which includes me...the one-eyed Mississippi Kite.  Gail also has a Mississippi Kite named Windy.  Windy was found in some crude oil out in an oil field.  Unfortuantely, the oil has damaged her feathers to the point where Windy will never be able to fly again.  Thanks Gail for saving Windy's life and giving her a permanant home.  Phee Phew!

October 15, 2010

Awwww....the weekend.  Maybe the staff will let me sleep in tomorrow.  I don't like morning feedings before the sun is up!

October 13, 2010

Brrrrrrrr....it is so cold this morning. When I am cold, I can ruffle my feathers to help insulate my body. Once the temperature gets consistently below 40-45 degrees, I'll have to start spending my nights inside. Luckily for me, Bob or Lila will take me out to my mew as temperatures start to warm up for the day so I can catch a little sun and fresh air. It sure is nice be waited on hand and foot...ummmmm....wing and talon!


Phee Phew!

October 8, 2010

Tomorrow I will be at River Bend Nature Center for the Ecofair.  I am bringing Lila along for moral support.  She will make a presentation at 11:30.  I hope you get a chance to stop by to see us.  Lila will also have handouts and color pages.  Plus Wild Bird Rescue will also have a booth with many cool items for sell.  I hope to see you there!  Phee Phew!

October 7, 2010

I feel blessed…no really I do!  I was part of the Blessing of the Animals at Park Place Christian Church.  Reverend Alice was so nice to me.  She stroked my breast while she said a prayer for me and all the other birds at Wild Bird Rescue.  Lila normally would never let anyone touch me but this was special.   Reverend Alice was so soft and gentle.  I was not afraid.   Reverend Alice and I hope all the birds coming through Wild Bird Rescue will find healing and health so they may be returned to the Wild.   Phee Phew!

September 29, 2010

Lila and Bob tried their hands at coping my beak and talons.  For those of you that have not been following my blog, coping is the filing off of the extra growth.  Since I am not in the wild, there is no natural way for me to wear them down.  Plus there is no need for really sharp talons because my food is handed to me on a silver platter.  Well...not really a silver platter, but you get the gist of what I mean.  As my beak grows, it loses its natural shape. Now I look and feel more like a Mississippi Kite again.   If you look at my picture at the top, you will see a groove before the downward curve at the tip of my beak.  In the wild, I would use that sharp tip to help me catch insects in flight.  I guess you could say I'm "groovy."  Phee Phew!

September 27, 2010

The Hike and Bike Trail around Lake Wichita is quite lovely this time of year.  I wouldn't know of course because I neither hike nor bike. However Lila was nice enough to share her experiences with me.  If you have not done this trail, it is highly recommended.  From the monarch butterflies which hang as orange curtains from the tree tops at dusk to the waterfowl that have chosen this lake as their winter vacation homes, the Hike and Bike Trail is one of the hidden gems of Wichita Falls.  An abundance of insects, migratory birds, and native plant life can be viewed from the easily traveled trail.  For those less active or weary travelers, the occasional bench serves as a respite.  Both Lila and I, your highly intelligent, one-eyed Mississippi Kite, give it two thumbs up...hummmph...I mean two talons up! Phee Phew! 

September 25, 2010

"Autumn begins with a subtle change in the light, with skies a deeper blue, and nights that become suddenly clear and chilled. The season comes full with the first frost, the disappearance of migrant birds, and the harvesting of the season's last crops."  Phee Phew!
                                                                                     

September 14, 2010

This leucistic (piebald) common grackle was photographed at the Wichita Valley Airport by John McMurray.    Although unusual, it does occur in all animals.  Most notable in horses, crows, and ball pythons but is also found in many other species. In contrast to leucism is albinism, which always affects the entire animal.  A further difference between albinism and leucism is in eye color. Due to the lack of melanin production in both the retinal pigmented epithelium and iris, true albinos typically have red eyes due to the underlying blood vessels showing through.  Leucistic animals have normally colored eyes.  That’s all today from your local one-eyed reporter!  Phee Phew!

September 13, 2010

Local TPWD biologists identified a Brown Pelican in with a flock of White Pelicans on Lake Wichita last week. It is theorized this bird was blown inland with Hurricane Hermine. I decided to use Lila’s laptop to do a little research myself. Here is what I found.  “Unique among the world's seven species of pelicans, the Brown Pelican is found along the ocean shores and not on inland lakes. There are seven or eight species of pelican in the world but the brown pelican is the only dark one. Brown Pelicans feed on mid-sized fish that they capture by diving from above and then scooping or dipping the fish into their pouch, which acts as a flexible dip net. They are the only species of pelican that hunts with such dramatic plunging dives.”  Boy are my talons sore…that’s a lot of typing for a one-eyed bird. Phee Phew!

September 10, 2010

Say...it sure is quiet now that the ducks have moved out.  I've posted a room for rent sign next door.

"Looking for a new roommate.   Must be a small bird of prey.   Preferably a screech owl.   Apply next door with the one-eyed Mississippi Kite.  References required."   Phee Phew!

September 9, 2010

A Cooper’s Hawk visited the Song Bird Aviary last week looking for a tasty morsel or should I say a tasty song bird to eat. Luckily for the song birds, the hawk couldn’t penetrate the hardware cloth. Cooper’s Hawks mainly eat birds such as doves, pigeons, starlings and robins. Did you know…The Cooper’s Hawk was first described in 1828 by Charles Bonaparte, a French naturalist and ornithologist who was the nephew of Napoleon. It was named after William Cooper, who collected the first specimen. Elizabeth Hawley, our board president, took the picture below. Phee Phew!

September 8, 2010

Can't a bird get an umbrella out here! I don't know who or what Hermine is but I don't like it one bit. I want my sunny days back so I can bask in the warmth of the afternoon. Say...whose idea was it to drill those holes for ventilation anyway?  It was Steve's idea?  Wait 'til I get my talons on him!   Phee Phew!

September 6, 2010

As the days get shorter, I know my kind will soon be migrating back to Argentina for winter.  I'll miss my friends when they're gone.  I know with only one eye, I can't make the journey with them, but my heart will be soaring with the thousands of Mississippi Kites as the mount to the sky on their Southern journey back home.  You will be missed.  Fly safe my friends...fly safe!  Phee Phew!

September 4, 2010

What a difference a day makes!  All the kites are now out in the flight aviary.  Most of the babies have moved to the fledgling room.  Where have all the babies gone?  Lila said she always looks forward to this time of year when things slow down at Wild Bird Rescue. I'm glad because now I'll be the center of attention once again!  Phee Phew!

August 27, 2010

Fall is upon us and with Fall comes lots of fun events.  I will be at Park Place Christian Church on Oct. 2nd at the Blessing of the Pets.  As the Avian Ambassador, I will be representing all of our birds past, present, and future.  Then on Oct. 12, I will be at River Bend Nature Center for the Eco Fair.  Lila will be putting on a program as part of the event.  Of course if your school or organization would like to have a program, just call Wild Bird Rescue at 940-691-0828.  Phee Phew!

August 23, 2010

Lila starts school today.  I'm going to miss having her at Wild Bird Rescue all the time.  At least she will still come and feed me morning and night.  Phee Phew!

August 20, 2010

If it walks like a duck, quacks like a duck, looks like a duck, it must be a duck.  What a minute...ducks??? Bob and Lila have done it again.  Why are there two ducks in the other half of my education mew?  Did anyone ask my permission?  Of course not!  How's a bird going to get any respect!  Phee Phew

August 19, 2010

Would someone please take Lila's alarm clock and smash it?  She's been coming by Wild Bird Rescue in the morning before the sun is up.  This summer I got to sleep in every day and she didn't come into my mew until mid morning.  Now she is waving superworms at me and misting me with water before I can even get my eye open.  Geeez Lila...get a life!

August 11, 2010

Lila released this bird, a Common Night Hawk, at dusk this evening.  It sat in the tree until the sun was almost down.  See how the coloration helps it camouflage itself in the tree?  Once it heard the calls of the other Night Hawks, it took flight in the sky with them. Farewell my feathered friend.  Phee Phew!

August 10,2010

My Dear Winnie,
   Thank you for the lovely color page you made for me.  It was beautiful and I am so proud of it!  Lila put it in my binder where she keeps all my special papers and important dates.  I will cherish it forever!
Phee Phew!

August 9, 2010

Aiight dawg, I was ranching out in da hood with a bunch of my broskillets in da crib fo shizzle.  Translation: I was put in the other aviary with 18 fledgling Mississippi Kites while some repairs were being made to my aviary.  I'm giggy with it!  Phee Phew

August 4, 2010

The arrival of a common night hawk always excites everyone at Wild Bird Rescue. It is a fun bird to hand feed with it enormous, frog-like mouth gaping for a soaked mealworm or two. The common night hawk pursues insects both at dawn and dusk in rural and urban areas. These birds are a common sight around street and stadium lights at night where large groups of insects gather. Its erratic flight makes it often look like a big bat which has earned it the nickname “bullbat.”

August 3, 2010

Aaaahhhhh...just got sprayed down with some cool, clear, water!  Water...water....cool, clear, water.  Hey...wait a minute, I think those are the lyrics to an old Marty Robbins' song.  You can't blame a bird for breakin' into a good ol' country song every now and then.

July 30, 2010

Does anyone have a good recipe for Mousesicles?  I sure could've used a cool treat on a hot day like today. Phee Phew!

July 29, 2010

We have our first chimney swift of the season. These little birds are very unique but sadly on the decline in the US. As usual, loss of habitat is the reason for their decline. Many homeowners with suitable chimneys constructed of clay tiles or masonry have capped the top. Most new chimneys are constructed of metal which is too slick for the swift to cling to or attach a nest. Because chimney swifts are usually solitary nesters each nest site is crucial. Fortunately, many people have caught on to the idea of constructing chimney swift towers. Wild Bird Rescue has such a tower at their facility. One pair of chimney swifts nested there this year.

July 28, 2010

Bob and Lila are just lucky I am such an understanding bird.  First you put a Yellow Crowned Night Heron in the mew next to me and now a Killdeer.  At least the heron was quiet.  This Killdeer hasn't stopped squawking since it moved in.  I'll be so glad when our Eastern Screech Owl finally arrives.  Wait...what did you just say, Lila?  Screech Owls are nocturnal!  You mean it will be up all night while I am sleeping.  I'm packing my bags right now!  A bird can only take so much!

July 27, 2010

What is that behind me?  I can barely see it out of the corner of my eye.  Let me try stretching a little more.  Wait...I can see it now.   I have TAIL FEATHERS growing back.  Phee Phew!

July 26, 2010

I want to say "Hi" to Winnie, a very clever young girl. She brought in a baby bird to us in her handmade Wild Bird Rescuing Box. Winnie is learning a valuable lesson about caring for our native wildlife. Because of children like Winnie, there will always be wild birds for everyone to enjoy. Way to go Winnie! When school starts back, I hope you will ask your teacher to invite me out to your class. I love to visit schools. Of course, Lila will have to drive me because she is the one with the driver's license. Phee Phew!

July 25, 2010

Mississippi Kite #7 was brought to Wild Bird Rescue this weekend.  It's so nice to be with all my peeps! Phee Phew!

July 22, 2010

If you are having problems with Mississippi Kites being a little over protective of their nest, I would highly recommend visiting this website.  It explains why we bird sometimes act the way we do during nesting season.   This site also has a really freaky pair of eyes you can download.  I don't understand how this will stop a bird from swooping down on people.  I cut out a pair and pasted them on my head.  I can't see a thing!  Phee Phew!

http://stfranciswildlife.org/SwoopingBirds.html

July 20, 2010

Today two nestling "Bald Eagles" were brought in to Wild Bird Rescue. We get several calls a year about baby eagles which turn out to be nestling or fledgling Mississippi Kites. Currently we have 4 nestling kites. By the end of baby season, Wild Bird Rescue will have rescued and released dozens of Mississippi Kites. I think our baby kites are every bit as majestic and beautiful as bald eagles. But then again, I am a little partial. Phee Phew!

July 12, 2010

I awoke this morning to find myself sharing my mew with a Yellow Crowned Night Heron.  Misery acquaints a man (or bird) with strange bedfellows. ~William Shakespeare

July 11, 2010

I just want to say thanks to Sam for doing such a great job feeding me all week.  You are welcome back anytime Sam.  Phee Phew!

July 8, 2010

Hey…who put this long-legged, wild-haired bird next to me in the education aviary? Are we running a hotel now? Oh, it is a fledgling yellow crowned night heron. Well I STILL think it looks funny and there is a strange fishy smell coming from next door.  Phee Phew!

July 6, 2010

Lila went to pick up one of my kind which was down in a yard. All its comrades were directly above standing vigil over their injured brother. Like the Marine motto to not leave one behind, these six Mississippi Kites did not leave their post above this bird. As Lila was driving back down Southwest Parkway to the Rescue Center with the injured bird, the sky opened up with 75-100 soaring Mississippi Kites circling above the treetops as if to say “Please take care of our injured friend.” Sadly the injured kite had a broken wing and had to be euthanized. It did not suffer and its life ended with dignity. Mankind could sure learn from Mississippi Kites. Phee Phew and Amen!

July 1, 2010

Aaaaahhhhhh...my new mew!

June 30, 2010

Hey…what is all that ruckus going on outside my window? Those darn Purple Martins are at it again…all lined up on the power line just above the martin house. Come on guys…get a life!  I guess they are hanging out because Purple Martins develop a strong loyalty for the nest site at which they successfully breed.  If the colony is well maintained and the martins do not suffer reproductive failure, they will return year after year to the same site. That’s fine with me…just do it after 8:00 a.m. in the morning!   Phee Phew!

June 30, 2010

A group of trained volunteers has been deployed to the Gulf to help with seabirds caught in the environmental disaster created by BP ‘s well blowout. International Bird Rescue and Research Center, the lead organization for oiled wildlife has set up centers throughout the Gulf where the growing oil slick is severely impacting birds. Please visit their website to find out how you can help: www.ibrrc.org. You’ll be glad you did. Phee Phew!

June 28, 2010

Hey...what is this I hear about Lila riding a lift 20 feet up in the air to rescue some pigeons?  Surely she has better sense than to do something crazy as that!  What...you really did that?  What if you had fallen?  Who would bring me my superworms each morning?  Who would mist me off each day?  What were you thinking?  ARE YOU CRAZY!!!  Wait a minute...a man was going to close up a large sign with the nestlings inside?  Well then I am glad you made it back safely to Wild Bird Rescue.  By the way...do you have plenty of life insurance?  Phee Phew!

June 27, 2010

We have a new bird visiting at Wild Bird Rescue, an American Kestrel. The American Kestrel is one of the most colorful falcons in the world and the most common in North America. Its wings are blue-gray with black spots with a rufous tail. Underneath the tail is white with a few black bars. The back and rump are orange to rufous, with a variable amount of black barring. The kestrel’s underparts are pale buff to orange, with some black spotting. The American Kestrel is crowned blue-gray with orange and buffy spots with dark centers on either side of nape, making "eyespots" visible from behind. Well isn’t that special! I'm just gray and more gray. The kestrel may be more colorful than me but I have red eyes…well in my case, one red eye. Top that Mr. Fancy Pants! Phee Phew!

June 25, 2010

Wild Bird Rescue got a call yesterday from an elderly lady who was worried about a large bird which was swooping and flying above her head.  Lila passed the phone off to me since I am an expert on Mississippi Kites.  Phee Phew!  I explained to the lady that my kind are great parents and only want to protect their young.  I advised her to carry an open umbrella or wear a hat with two large paper eyes pinned to the back of it whenever she leaves the house.  I'm asking a lot of her, but Mississippi Kites are protected by state and federal laws.  The adult cannot be harmed and the nest cannot be removed.  If the situation worsens, only the local game warden can step in to help remove the nest.  Remember, kites only nest in our area from June through August.  Hey...will someone please come and get this phone from me!  Who do you think I am...Lily Tomlin?  Phee Phew!

June 24, 2010

Home Sweet Home

The Brittani Gossett Memorial Aviary

Built in memory of a girl who loved all animals.

June 22, 2010

My mew is not complete but it is starting to look like home.  A few complications came up on Saturday but the Seabees handled it with ease.  The foundation was not quite square and a little larger than we had originally told them.  The Seabees are back this afternoon to complete the job.  Phee Phew for the Navy Seabees.

June 18, 2010

I thought everyone would enjoy the "before" photo of my mew.  Tomorrow the Navy Seabees will be at Wild Bird Rescue to build my mew.  Yeeeehaw!  I mean...Phee Phew!

June 17, 2010

Just when I thought baby season had slowed down, the starlings, grackles, doves, and sparrows are on a second round.  I just hope things slow down before we start getting Mississippi Kites at Wild Bird Rescue.  I want to spend some time with my peeps and I don't want those silly songbirds in the way.  Phee Phew

June 15, 2010

Phee Phew to the kids at River Bend Nature Center. Thank you for inviting me to come. I love to visit with children that share a common interest in nature. I am in awe of the wonderful questions you all asked. I hope my visit will give you a greater understanding of Mississippi Kites. Remember, when my kind gets aggressive with humans, it’s only because Mississippi Kites are just protective parents. Be on the lookout for Kites in the late afternoon soaring high among the clouds. The warm afternoon heat gives us extra lift in the sky. I hope you will keep up with all my exciting, informative blogs. Phee Phew

June 14, 2010

Predators take a toll on kites and include crows, jays, ravens, owls and raccoons. Kites are aggressive parents, though, and vigorously dive bomb and attack intruders - human and otherwise. This trait sometimes gives them a bad reputation on golf courses where they commonly nest in the tall trees there. If you encounter a problem with dive bombing, wear a hat, carry an umbrella, or best of all, avoid areas where there are nestling or fledgling kites. Within a few weeks, they'll be on their way, and remember that they're just being attentive, protective parents.

June 13, 2010

One clutch of eggs is laid each year and almost always consists of two bluish-white eggs. Kite nests are large, made of twigs and sticks, and fresh leaves are added regularly to line the interior. Chicks hatch asynchronously (not all at the same time) in about thirty days but it's another five weeks until they can fly.

June 12, 2010

It won't be too long before nestling Mississippi Kites start to arrive at Wild Bird Rescue.  Over the next few days,  I'm going to share a bit of information about their arrival.  Mississippi kite nestlings are downy and white, about the size of a golf ball, and weigh approximately one ounce. Like other birds of prey, they grow very quickly. Awwww...to think I once looked like that.    Phee Phew!

June 11, 2010

I am resting peacefully in my mew this morning.  The trip to Lubbock was very long but it was nice to see my friends.   Gail and Carol thought I looked fabulous and said Lila is doing a great job with me.  I got to see my friend Windy, South Plains' Mississippi Kite.  The vets did my beak and talons.  It was painless and over in 30 seconds.  I was back in my aviary by 8:30 pm last night.  Thanks to Gail and South Plains Wildlife Rehabilitation Center for including me in their beak and talon event.

June 8, 2010

The First Annual Wild Bird Rescue Baby Bird Shower was a huge success. Thanks to the kind folks at United Market Street on Kell for letting us set up a table and collect donations for our baby birds.  Also special thanks to Elizabeth Hawley-WBR Board President, Trey Saralla of Eddie Hills Fun Cycle, Keith Vaughn of Cumulus Radio, and all the Wild Bird Rescue volunteers who showed up to help.  The cupboards and closets at WBR are now filled with supplies.  The folks of Wichita Falls are GREAT!

June 6, 2010

Okay...I take back the last blog about my new mew.  I don't think I am ready to spend my days outside in this Texas weather.  What is going on?  With the heat index it is 105 degrees F.  I think I'll just stay right where I am with the air conditioning blowing gently through my feathers.  Aaaaahhhhh!!! 

June 4, 2010

The Navy Seabees are coming to Wild Bird Rescue this afternoon to finalize the plans for my new mew. If you have not been keeping up with my blog, the Navy Seabees are going to build my mew free of charge. All we have to do is purchase the supplies. Thanks to all the generous donations, Wild Bird Rescue has the money. It won’t be long now! They will go over the supply list and the total cost. Then all that is left to do is purchase the supplies and let them begin. I can't wait! Phee Phew

May 29, 2010

                            Please thank a veteran today!

May 28, 2010

It's the last day of school for WFISD.  Phee Phew!!!  Lila will be spending more time at Wild Bird Rescue.  I hope all the students enjoy their summer off.  Remember boys and girls, if you find a baby bird, have your parents call Wild Bird Rescue to get advice on what to do.  Many times, the nice folks at WBR can help you reunite the baby bird with its parents.  Someone is there to help 7 days a week from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm. 

May 27, 2010

Lila made me a beauty appointment yesterday.  It's hard to get in some of the classier places so I'll have to wait a couple of weeks.  The vet in Lubbock is going to trim and shape my beak and talons on June 10.  The process of trimming and shaping is called coping.  I wonder if the vet gives massages too!  Phee Phew

May 25, 2010

Aod'han donates money to Wild Bird Rescue and Missi's Mew. 

May 25, 2010

Sorry I have not posted in a few days. I’ve been busy preening myself and watching spring evolve outside my window. Speaking of spring, the weather is perfect for a lovely motorcycle ride. You don’t have a motorcycle? I can fix that…we still have plenty of raffle tickets left for the new Honda Rebel that Wild Bird Rescue is auctioning off. Just call 940-691-0828 and Bob will fix you up with a ticket. Good Luck!

May 20, 2010

Do you know what a raptor is? No…it’s not one of those new jets at Sheppard Air Force Base. Think back to the movie Jurassic Park. Remember the dinosaur called Velociraptor? That dinosaur caught food with its claws or talons. Modern raptors are birds of prey which hunt with their talons. A Mississippi Kite is a bird of prey found in North Texas this time of year. I may not be as fierce as a dinosaur but I sure can eat like one. Phee Phew

May 19, 2010

This weekend, a bobcat was spotted at Wild Bird Rescue. The bobcat (Lynx rufus) is a North American mammal of the cat family, Felidae. With twelve recognized subspecies, it ranges from southern Canada to northern Mexico, including most of the continental United States. The bobcat is an adaptable predator that inhabits wooded areas, as well as semi-desert, urban edge, forest edges and swampland environments. It persists in much of its original range and populations are healthy. Phee Phew!

May 17, 2010

I’m sitting pretty today. My aviary was cleaned and my perch scrubbed. Nothing like a clean aviary to make a bird feel good!

May 14, 2010

Rain! Rain! Go away...come again some other day. Okay...I am not quite ready for Bob to start building an Ark but this rain is getting ridiculous!

May 13, 2010

Boy...I was starving today. I must have eaten 20 superworms. I guess the cold, rainy weather just makes me want to lie around and do nothing but eat all day. Oh by the way...I really enjoyed meeting the 6th grade from Kirby Jr. High yesterday. The students were all so nice and polite. They asked incredible questions too. Mrs. Seman did a great job teaching her students about endangered species. Phee Phew

May 12, 2010

Last night Lila was out walking on Decker Road when she came upon two Mississippi Kites sitting atop a telephone pole. No doubt they were a mated pair. Lila got within 10 feet of the pair and they didn’t move or fly away. I wish I had been with her. I would have enjoyed saying, “Hello” to my country cousins.

May 11, 2010

Wow, Wild Bird Rescue sure is busy this time of year. The incubator is full of hatchlings and the cages are full of nestlings. You should hear the noise too! How’s a bird to think with all that noise going on in the building? I have things of great importance running through my head. Such as…will I eat a mouse or superworms for supper? I just can’t get any thinking done! As the Avian Ambassador, I am expected to be a great thinker. The only problem is I keep falling off my perch every time I try to rest my elbow on my leg. I just don’t know how Rodin’s The Thinker does it!!! Phee Phew

May 5, 2010

Yaaaawnnn!!! I am so tired today. Lila left the light on all night in my mew. How's a girl going to get her beauty sleep? If I seem a little grumpy today, you'll know why. Thanks a lot...LILA!!! Phee...Phew

May 5, 2010

Last night I visited the Rolling Plains Chapter of the Texas Master Naturalists. I just want to apologize for not being at my best behavior. The lights were playing tricks with my eyes and those incessant crickets would not quit chirping. I don't know how River Bend's volunteers put of with that racket! However, I do appreciate those who purchased a raffle ticket or one of my shirts. The money always goes to a great cause...Wild Bird Rescue.

May 4, 2010

Wild Bird Rescue is really starting to live up to its name. Lots of baby birds have started to come into the rescue center. We have finches, sparrows, blue jays, mockingbirds, starlings, grackles, and a boatload of ducklings. I hope the Navy gets my mew finished soon because all those birds will need my aviary in about 4 weeks.

May 3, 2010

I can't believe Wild Bird Rescue made a t-shirt with my picture on the front. I am so excited!!! I think I'll design a line of clothing called "Big Bird." No...wait a minute...I think that name is already taken. Phee...Phew Phee...Phew

April 30, 2010

Lila met some nice young men last night at the Jefferson Awards dinner. They are Navy Seabees stationed at Sheppard Air Force Base. The Seebees are the construction battalion of the United States Navy. I don't know what they have to do with bees...maybe they are as busy as bees. They have agreed to help construct my mew. Phee Phew to the Navy Seabees!

April 29, 2010

It sure is nice to have Bob back at Wild Bird Rescue. All the birds sure have missed him. I understand he did a great job helping out the Wichita County Humane Society but the birds need him more. Glad you are back, Bob!!! Phee Phew...Phee Phew

April 28, 2010

Wild Bird Rescue is giving away a New 2009 Honda Rebel Motorcycle. Win a Wild Ride for Ride Birds will benefit Missi's Mew and other educational projects at Wild Bird Rescue. Tickets are only $10 each and a limit of 500 tickets will be sold. Call 940-691-0828 for more details or to purchase a ticket. Wow, I like those odds. Hmmmm...what do you think of a Mississippi Kite cruising on a 2009 Honda Rebel? Awesome!!!

April 26, 2010

I really enjoyed my day in the outside aviary. I could hear the Purple Martins arguing with the Sparrows around the Martin house. I tried to intervene, but the Martins would have nothing to do with me. Do you think it is because Kites have been known to prey on Swallows and Martins? I would never do such a thing!

April 25, 2010

Ahhh...a beautiful Spring day. Lila is taking me to the outside aviary today. I can't wait. I love the smell of wet grass in the morning and the gentle breeze. Hey wait a minute...that's not a gentle breeze. It's going to be a gusty day. Oh well, the more wind the more I can ruffle my feathers. Ain't life great!

April 23, 2010

"Soaring with ease on the lightest breeze
she's so joyous to be aloft.

On wings spread wide through the heavens
she'll glide on feathers whisper soft."

Written by Paula Ashby in memory of Ashe

April 22, 2010

The Mississippi Kite is a species of conservation concern. Historically, populations have declined in the southeast due to persecution by humans who consider birds like me a nuisance. I am a very misunderstood bird. That’s why I enjoy visiting classrooms and appearing on TV or in the newspaper. My duty is to help create future generations of wise stewards of this Earth. If humans would just stop and listen, then my role as an education bird will not have been in vain. Currently in Argentina, my wintering grounds are slowly but surely vanishing due to logging. Someday I hope a small child will grow up and stop the destruction of my habitat in South America. Happy Earth Day!

April 21, 2010

Sorry I’ve been away from the computer the last few days. Lila still won’t give me her password so I can’t do my blog. By the way…you should see the contraption to which Lila has me tethered. It is a big, round tire. I guess I’ve been a little too mischievous when everyone’s away. Now I have to just perch on this tire. Turns out I’ve been learning some very negative behaviors such as flying away when someone wants to enter my mew. I guess I am supposed to just sit there like a nice, little lady and hop on the glove. Go figure!

April 15, 2010

Today I had to get a shot of Baytril. Ouch…that hurt!!! The other day I was flying around in my mew and got hung on a hook. I was only stuck for a minute but the damage was done. The hook must have broken through the skin. Today it was a little red and weepy…the wound not me! I have to be on Baytril injections for 3 days. Yuck!

Hot off the press! Mississippi Kites are in the Lower Rio Grande Valley. They will be in North Texas soon! Yahooo!

April 11, 2010

I was not a happy camper this morning. I just wouldn’t open my mouth to have that mouse poked inside. Would you? As I was looking out my window this morning, I noticed someone had poured a cement foundation for the entrance to my mew. Construction is slowly coming along. I can’t wait to get into my new digs.

April 10, 2010

Okay...OKAY!!! I know I am behind on my blog but I am feeling migration in my bones and I just can't keep my eyes off the skies. My kind will arrive any day now and I am so anxious.

April 6, 2010

I am getting closer to the total I need to start construction on my new mew. Many of the volunteers and my close friends have raised over $1,250. I would shake each and every hand...if I had a hand to shake with! I can't wait to start my new life in my new mew!

April 5, 2010

Hi everyone! I created a puzzle just for you. Scroll to the bottom of the page and click on the "play arrow" to begin. I bet you can't beat my time! Remember, I have talons and they are great for moving around those little puzzle pieces.

April 4, 2010

Hey…did you see me on KFDX news Friday night? I missed it. We don’t have any TV’s in the aviaries for the birds to enjoy. Now personally, I think birds might enjoy watching Animal Planet or Discovery Channel. Oh well…thus is the life of a bird. Today I think I’ll eat a couple of hopper mice. Yummy!

April 1, 2010

Outside my aviary window I observed the greening of spring has begun. Many trees are in bloom and their leaves will soon follow. The air is filled with the innumerable calls of various songbirds and the Purple Martins are scolding the sparrows attempting to build a nest in the martin house. With so much excitement in the air, I wait in anticipation of the spring arrival of Mississippi Kites to our region.

March 31, 2010

Next time you are out at Wild Bird Rescue ask to see the Great Horned Owl. No...it's not alive. A nice young taxidermist, Braden Cecil, took an owl we had to euthanize and prepared it as an educational display. Now when I visit schools, I'll have a stuffed friend traveling with me. Gosh I hope I never get stuffed and put on a log! Next time you are in Henrietta, stop by 111 South Bridge Street and say "Thank You" to Braden.

March 30, 2010

I was back at Jefferson Elementary School yesterday. The third grade students listened very well and asked some wonderful questions. Kindergarten was a different story. When I had a small accident on the floor, they all yelled gross!!! However, I know one little girl was listening because she went home and told her parents she saw a big bird at school. "And guess what? Its eye was gone!" That little girl was Madi. Thanks Madi for cutting out my picture. You are so sweet!

March 29, 2010

Wow...the front page of the Times Record News! Those first graders were so awesome last week. I hope you enjoyed reading the story. Today, I am back at Jefferson Elementary School to visit third grade. I wanted to tell you about another wonderful Jefferson student, Aodhan. He will be celebrating his birthday soon. He has requested donations for me instead of presents this year. What a wonderful young man...way to go Aodhan!!!

March 25, 2010

You should see my aviary...little white down feathers everywhere. You see, I am molting. No! Not melting...molting! Down feathers are small, soft, fluffy, and are found under the contour feathers. They are plumaceous, and have many non-interlocking barbs, lacking the barbules and hooklets seen in contour and flight feathers. This makes it possible for them to trap air in an insulating layer next to my skin, protecting me from heat and cold. These feathers are so efficient, humans use them for insulation, too, in down jackets and comforters. Come and get your downy feathers!!!

March 23, 2010

It's still not too late to get your tickets for the 2010 Wild Bird Rescue Celebrity Roast. This year's honoree is David Farabee. He's a really important man. He even came to visit me at Wild Bird Rescue. Oh...back to the roast...it will be at the MPEC on March 26th at 6:30 p.m. You can get your tickets at Wild Bird Rescue or by calling 691-0828. Please don't ask for me...I'll be on my perch munching on superworms.

March 22, 2010

The students at Jefferson Elementary School were wonderful hosts today. I was so impressed with how well they all behaved...even when I had a little accident on the classroom floor. Luckily Lila asked the students not to laugh or yell if that happened. Of course, I am still a wild bird so it happened. Sorry!!!

March 21, 2010

Tomorrow I’ll be at Jefferson Elementary School to meet a few students. The Times Record News has scheduled a photographer to come out with me. I am trying to raise money for my new mew. Students at Jefferson Elementary will be donating money all week long to help out. My new mew will have a very special name. It will be called the “Brittani Gossett Memorial Aviary” in memory of a young girl who once attended Jefferson Elementary. Brittani loved birds and all other living things dearly. In the future when students visit Wild Bird Rescue, they will have a chance to see me in my special aviary. I know Brittani will be looking down on me with a big smile on her face.

March 19, 2010

Aaaahhhh....I am basking in the glory of my new found fame. My future's so bright I gotta wear shades! Okay...I know that is so 80's. If you didn't see me on TV last night, well you missed a great show. I didn't bate from the glove one time. When I bate from the glove, it means to attempt to fly away. I wanted to make Bob look good so I behaved.

March 18, 2010

I make my TV debut tonight on Garden Line with Paul Dowlearn. The program starts at 7:00 p.m. on Time Warner Cable-channel 15. Gosh…I hope I don’t have to sign any autographs. I haven’t even learned how to hold a pen much less spell my name! Oh the price we celebrities pay for our 15 minutes of fame.

March 16, 2010

Dang...flew straight into the wall again today. How embarrassing! I can't wait until I have my new mew. If you haven't heard, I am getting a new home as soon as all the money has been raised. If you would like to contribute to my housing fund just mail your donation to Wild Bird Rescue, 4611 Lake Shore Drive, Wichita Falls, TX 76310. I don't know how much more flying into the walls I can take!

March 15, 2010

I went for a pedicure today. Not exactly what I thought it was going to be! I hope you can get a mental picture of this: Dr. Sultemeier, a vet tech, a dremel, and a screaming Mississippi kite. Not a pretty picture!!!

March 12, 2010

I just don't get it. Lila doesn't trust me with her password. She said something about internet security or stolen identity...I didn't catch it all. Whaaa...Whaaa...Whaaa!!! Since I can't be trusted, I may not be posting as much during spring break. I wish Lila would get a life!!!

March 12, 2010

"Phee, phew” “Phee, phew” Mom and Dad? Is that you calling? Are you back this soon? Wait a minute…is that a blue jay in a tree!!!! Darn…that blue jay can mimic so many different bird calls. Blue jays and mockingbirds are some of the best mimics in the bird world. My kinfolks will be back soon enough. Mississippi Kites arrive back in Wichita Falls around mid April.

March 11, 2010

Ahhhh…I’m yearning for my winter homeland, Argentina, the place where all Mississippi Kites in North American go to spend winter. Soon our winter will be over and kites will be migrating back this way. I can’t wait for my kind to return to North Texas! After all, we Mississippi Kites are very social birds…I need my peeps!

March 10, 2010

Whoa! Whoa! Whoa! Yesterday you fed me a dead mouse and today I am eating a super-what? SUPERWORM!!!! Mmmm…hmmmm…..cccrrrruunch!!!! Not bad…tastes like chicken. I have to eat 20 of these wiggly things today? So let me get this straight, I eat mice one day and insects the next. How’s a girl going to watch her figure eating all these scrumptious delicacies?

March 9, 2010

Hello world! I am a little new to this internet stuff. Plus my talons don't always work so well on the keyboard. I don't know about you but I am ready for a little sunshine. I've been sittin' on my perch by the window today just soakin' in the sun like butter on a warm biscuit. Now that's a pretty good analogy from a smart 'ol bird like me.