Birds have an extensive range of life spans, varying between four and 100 years. Avian aging is challenging to calculate because birds don't visually show they're growing older — there are no graying feathers to see or growth rings to count. While much remains unknown about birds' potential longevity in the wild, several features influence how long they live.
Key Factors That Impact Bird Life Spans
Numerous factors affect the avian life span.
Size
Generally speaking, smaller birds usually have shorter life spans than larger ones. For example, a cockatoo's average life span in the wild ranges from 40 to 70 years, while a hummingbird's is just five years. Seabirds like penguins and albatross also boast lengthy average lives at 15 to 20 years and 50 years or more, respectively.
Habitat
An avian's surroundings are a primary determinant of its potential longevity. For example, birds nesting on islands frequently live longer than those on the mainland. Other factors that create an environmental impact on bird life spans include:
- Climate change
- Habitat destruction
- The presence of natural predators
- Pesticides
- Collisions with buildings
Maturation
Avians sexually mature and produce clutches at varying rates depending on their species. For example, a bald eagle typically lays only one or two eggs per clutch and reaches sexual maturity between 4 and 6 years of age. Conversely, a lovebird can breed as early as 8 months of age and often lays four to six eggs per clutch. Birds that take longer to reach adulthood and have fewer young tend to live longer.
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Watching birds interact is a relaxing and enjoyable activity, no matter their age or yours. FeatherSnap's smart bird feeder lets you get an up-close look without scaring or disturbing your avian friends. Our app alerts you to activity and provides a real-time camera feed powered by environmentally friendly and economical solar panels. The dual-compartment design allows for multiple foods in a single feeder, so you can attract more species.
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