To remove birds, one must know birds. And Meridian Bird Removal knows birds. If you follow us on Facebook or Instagram (and if you don’t you should), you’re familiar with our Bird Facts Friday feature. This month, we wanted to introduce you to an unusual bird: the catbird. Here are five fun facts about the catbird you probably didn’t know.
Appearance
The gray catbird is a medium-sized songbird with spindly legs and a long, slender tail. Mostly gray (hence the name), they are characterized by a dark gray “cap” and a rust-colored patch on the tail’s underside.
Catbirds are Noisy
They are extremely vocal, with calls lasting up to ten minutes. These vocalizations often mimic other birds and even animals such as frogs. Catbirds have even been recorded making noises that sound like a human baby crying. Their most common call sounds like the newing of a cat, hence the name.
Catbirds are Long-Lived
While many bird species have lifespans of around two years, the oldest recorded Catbird was estimated at almost 18 years old. It was captured in New Jersey at 17 years, 11 months of age, then re-captured in Maryland before being released.
Catbirds are a Challenge to Capture
In their natural habitat, they populate dense thickets and low-lying vegetation, so their flights are usually short, fast trips from one shrub to another. When they get into buildings, catbirds behave similarly, darting between shelves. They are skittish and elusive, making them hard to “natural catch” (a straight drive into a net).
The Catbird Award
Meridian created an award in honor of a late Bird Removal Technician, Arnie Johnson, whose nickname was “Catbird.” Arnie’s tenacity and persistence in catching wily birds like the catbird earned him his sobriquet. The Arnie “Catbird” Johnson Award recognizes one Meridian Team Member annually who exemplifies our Core Value, Commitment To Capture — a necessary skill when you’re up against the catbird.
Want to learn more? Download the Catbird Flyer here.