Bird of the Week: The Peep

Peeps just born

Map by ABC

Peeps typically make their appearance in the springtime, with numbers peaking at the end of March.

Despite their distribution and social nature, little is known about their migratory paths, wintering, and breeding areas.

Peeps are recognized easily by their neon coloring. In mid-Michigan it is common to locate peeps in suburban backyards hidden within colorful eggs in nests of brightly-colored plastic grasses.

Scientists recognize only the familiar “yellow” form of peep; and there is currently debate in the ornithological community for granting separate species status to the blue, teal, pink, and purple forms of Peep, currently considered color morphs.

Their main predators are sticky fingered little children and quick sniffing dogs. However their population is in the millions and therefore they are not a species of conservation concern.

Enjoy this popular harbinger of spring!

Original story from:  http://www.abcbirds.org/newsandreports/botw/peeps.html

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