Eco-Activity: Red Knot’s secret code

Red Knot’s Secret Code

Like most birds, red knots make a variety of calls and songs. You can hear them make anything from a quick grunt to a complex yodel. Their calls are used to communicate, let others know if a predator is nearby, where there is good food to be found, or even help claim their territory! For example, male red knots use a repetitive song that sounds like ‘poor me’ to attract females to the nest and keep other males away. Here’s a sample song from some of our red knot friends!

Decoding these distinct sounds gives biologists a better understanding of the red knots’ life. Let’s see how good you are at decoding what the red knot is singing to us! Use the code key to figure out the secrets of the red knot!BONUS: the second word of song #2 is a secret code for the Earth Rangers app!

Wanna lend a helping wing to some red knots in need? You can help support important research to protect this unique species by purchasing a red knot Wildlife Adoption kit!

Plushie adoption kits are only $40 and include a certificate and a poster, and when you make your purchase through the Earth Rangers App your child will also earn points to help them level up on their Earth Rangers journey—plus a set of virtual rewards they can show off!

Are Digital Adoption packages more your style? They’re only $10 and an Earth Rangers App exclusive! These include a virtual badge, a virtual animal to accompany your avatar on the home screen in the app, a cool avatar bonus item, and a virtual adoption certificate!​

The Earth Rangers App is where kids go to save animals! It’s free to join and you’ll have access to real-world Missions like this one. Plus, you can adopt an animal to support conservation projects, and learn all about animals in the Wild Wire Blog. Find activities like this, and so much more in the App!