Wikipedia:Peer review/Blackbird/archive1

Blackbird

I've listed this article for peer review because I've covered what seem to be the main points for the species, and I'd welcome copy editing, comments and improvements before submitting to GA/FA. The map seems to use non-standard colours, but I can't do maps anyway.

Thanks,

Jimfbleak (talk) 08:03, 13 December 2007 (UTC)

In the taxonomic section I have exchanged this part: "The Himalayan subspecies maximus is strikingly different from the subcontinental forms" with "The Himalayan subspecies maximus is strikingly different from the simillimus group". There were two problems with the initial version: In birds, form is mainly used to refer to temporary plumages (and, to a lesser extend, morphs) and therefore stands in contrast to taxonomical entities. Second problem is that a part of the Himalayas is, strictly speaking, included in the Indian subcontinent. I'm certainly not ecstatic over the new version, but at least it is correct. If anybody can come up with a better version that also is correct, please do feel free to change it. Unfortunately, Peninsular India is out, too. Rabo3 (talk) 19:33, 13 December 2007 (UTC)

• A script has been used to generate a semi-automated review of the article for issues relating to grammar and house style. If you would find such a review helpful, please click here. Thanks, APR _t 01:22, 19 December 2007 (UTC)

• Wow, this article is in great shape. I made up a list of questions before I began, and all of them got answered in detail in the text. The lead is excellent. The images are fantastic, as is the sound, and I particularly like the detailed descriptions of behavior. I only have a few suggestions.
  • Would it be useful to have a distribution range that distinguishes subspecies? (I see some subspecies have such a restricted range that they wouldn't show up on a global map.)
    • It might, but I lack the skills to do it, and some forms overlap
  • Is much information available on Blackbird nutrition? Yes, they're omnivores, but are there nutrients that Blackbirds need to get adequate amounts of (different from other omnivorous birds), and are there problems with Blackbirds facing health problems from a lack of, say, protein in some areas?
    • Other than an almost endless list of things they will eat, not much. Blackbirds are generalists that adapt their diet to what is available, and the only obvious point is that good habitats (ie my garden), have a higher density than poorer ones like farmland.
  • Related question: Are there Blackbird health problems that are separate from those of passerines in general? Blackbird-specific parasites or viruses that are significant? Anything else on health that is known and important?
    • Good point, I'll add a sentence.
• Again, great work on this. – Quadell ^{(talk) (random)} 16:16, 19 December 2007 (UTC)