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Page 2
This page last updated on: Monday, March 21, 2011 5:58 AM
Fascinating. I am getting on top of the issues surrounding the classification of birds. It turns out that there are 2 different approaches that give quite different results. The core idea of applying a Latin label to each type of bird is still solid, but there are different views on how these labels should be organized.
I did not know this. One method, known as the Howard & Moore system, is essentially the modern form of what ornithologists have been using for the last century. Basically it considers the physical appearance, skeletal structure, geographical areas, habitat and behavior and groups "similar" birds into separate categories. These categories are then ordered into families. Each family is also given a higher order label but this label is not used in determining the sequence of the families.
The second method was first developed in the 1970's by Sibley & Monroe and uses DNA information to organize the species into a genetically evolved set of orders. The result is similar to the Howard & Moore approach in many cases but there are also many places where the ordering is wildly different.
Both approaches have their adherents. I am now trying to incorporate both approaches into my birding database and will then be able to produce lists using either criterion, depending on the context. Basically the context one of comparing my list with those in a book such as a field guide or with information on the web such as Wikipedia (which seems to use the Howard & Moore approach) or a guide for Saskatchewan birders (which seems to use the Sibley & Monroe) approach.
Here are the two web sites that I am using as references:
- Howard & Moore Families sequence
- Sibley & Monroe approach
Today has been a genuine new Learning experience.
Update database, adding scientific and common names Install wiring for turntable on model train layout Continue reading "DECODED" by Jay-Z
| Learning Category | Planned Activities for Today | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Birding | Update database, adding scientific and common names | 5 hr |
| Model Trains | Install wiring for turntable on model train layout | 1 hr |
| Literature | Continue reading "DECODED" by Jay-Z | 1 hr |