body temperature of songbirds

[Russ & Denise Booth]

Could anyone tell me what the normal body temperature of a songbird is?
Here in Sacramento (central California) we have had temperatures over
100 degrees (Fahrenheit) for over a week (the past couple of days have
been 110!!). I was just curious how they cool themselves and how
concerned I should be about keeping cool water in the birdbath. The
water may feel warm to me but maybe it isn't to the bird. Any input is
appreciated...

Denise
--
boo...@ix.netcom.com
Sacramento, CA

[JPDean]

According to Pettingill's Ornithology in Laboratory and Field, the body
temperature of passerine birds (includes songbirds) varies normally
between 102.0 degrees F to 112.3 degrees F.

Certainly with the hot weather you are currently experiencing, it is wise
to put out fresh, cool water for the birds to use.

James Dean
Division of Birds mnhv...@sivm.si.edu
Smithsonian Institution or jpd...@aol.com
Washington DC

[Jack Crenshaw]

In article <4unku4$k...@sjx-ixn1.ix.netcom.com>, boo...@ix.netcom.co
says...

>
>Could anyone tell me what the normal body temperature of a songbird is?

Denise, the average songbird has a temp of around 102 degrees.

Jack

[N.C. Koski]

Russ & Denise Booth wrote:
>
> Could anyone tell me what the normal body temperature of a songbird is?

> Here in Sacramento (central California) we have had temperatures over
> 100 degrees (Fahrenheit) for over a week (the past couple of days have
> been 110!!).
>

> Denise
> --
> boo...@ix.netcom.com
> Sacramento, CA

Normal bird body temp is about 104F. If it is feasible, please refresh
your birdbath with cool water. But the birds will hang out in shady
branches, and they will pant if overly heated or stressed. Is there any
way to position your birdbath so it is in the shade? That will help
lower the temp of the water. Above all, keep water in the bird bath.
Water sources are often harder for birds to find than food sources.

Nancy Koski
Santa Rosa, CA USA