Davis Lund Aviaries - What are Softbills?
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| Guess what? |
| It has nothing to do with the density of their bills! |
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| Pekin Robin |
| (Leiothrix lutea) |
| Eats fruit, insects, seeds & pellets. |
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| "Softbills" or "Softbilled Birds" is a nonscientific term |
| given to a large group of birds that mainly eat softer food: |
| fruit & plant parts (including nectar) or insects. |
| Generally, the term does not include raptors, waterfowl, gamebirds, or seed-eaters such as parrots, doves, and finches. |
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| Many softbill diets include seeds |
| (like for Pekin Robins & tanagers) |
| or larger prey animals |
| (like for hornbills & crows) so the term can be confusing sometimes. |
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| White-Headed Black Bulbul |
| and |
| Silver-Eared Mesia |
| Eat fruit, insects, seeds, & pellets. |
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| Blacksmith Plover |
| (Vanellus armatus) |
| Eats pellets, insects, fish, |
| & other small invertebrates. |
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Softbills are uncommon in private aviculture, and many are typically seen only in zoos. Many types of softbills are still being imported although as our USA regulations become more oppressive and other countries close their borders, the variety cannot be always counted on. |
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A species of softbill available last year may be impossible to get this year! |
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| This site presents material for your information, education, and entertainment. |
| All photographs were taken by the Davis Lunds. |
| All photos and text are property of the Davis Lunds. |
| You may not copy, distribute, modify, reuse, or transmit any portions of this site for commercial or public use without written permission from the Davis Lunds. |
| Copyright 10/98 |
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