The following questions are from the “Microsoft Rewards Bing Homepage Quiz” for 12-14-2024. Let us know in the comments if you find the wrong answer to any question!!!
Question 1: Which owl species is in today’s image?
- Northern hawk-owl
- Eurasian eagle-owl
- Great horned owl
Correct Answer: Northern hawk-owl
Fact: Unlike many other owls, the northern hawk-owl is primarily diurnal, meaning it is active during the day, allowing birdwatchers to spot it more easily than its nocturnal relatives. The species, found in North America and Europe, prefers open areas within boreal forests, where it hunts small mammals, birds, and even insects from a high perch.
Question 2: What is a group of owls called?
- A parliament
- A troop
- A herd
Correct Answer: A parliament
Fact: The term ‘parliament’ likely stems from the fact that owls are often associated with wisdom and knowledge. This is largely due to their prominent role in ancient mythology, particularly Greek culture. The owl was the symbol of Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom.
Question 3: In the song ‘The Twelve Days of Christmas,’ what type of bird is given on the first day?
- Penguin
- Parakeet
- Partridge
Correct Answer: Partridge
Fact: The English carol describes a series of gifts given on each of the 12 days, beginning on Christmas Day. The first gift is a ‘partridge in a pear tree,’ which has become a classic symbol associated with the song and the holiday season. The partridge represents generosity and love, fitting well with the festive spirit of gift-giving.
— Additional Questions —
Question 4: Where in Hungary can you find St. Stephen’s Basilica, pictured here?
- Budapest
- Győr
- Szeged
Correct Answer: Budapest
Fact: St. Stephen’s Basilica is dedicated to Hungary’s first king, St. Stephen I. Construction of the basilica began in 1851 but faced significant setbacks, including the collapse of the dome in 1868, which led to a complete rebuild. Budapest’s Parliament and St. Stephen’s Basilica both stand 315 feet tall (96 meters), symbolizing the importance of both spiritual and worldly matters. The height in meters also marks the year 896, when Hungarians first settled in the area. The number 96 is significant in Budapest, as no building can be taller than 315 feet (96 meters).
Question 5: Which of these illusionists was born in Budapest?
- David Copperfield
- David Blaine
- Harry Houdini
Correct Answer: Harry Houdini
Fact: Harry Houdini, born Erik Weisz on March 24, 1874, became a legendary escape artist, astonishing audiences with daring feats like escaping handcuffs and sealed containers. His stage name honored French magician Robert-Houdin. Houdini’s legacy of disappearing acts and defying limits influenced modern pop culture, including Dua Lipa’s song ‘Houdini,’ which explores themes of breaking free and elusiveness.
Question 6: Which river flows through the center of Budapest?
- Rhine
- Danube
- Tiber
Correct Answer: Danube
Fact: The Danube stretches across 10 countries and flows over 1,770 miles from the Black Forest in Germany to the Black Sea. The second-longest river in Europe, it passes through major cities, including Vienna, Bratislava, and Budapest, where it divides the Hungarian capital into two historical areas: Buda on the western side and Pest on the eastern side of the river.