I relocated the feeder mentioned in the previous post in an effort to make it more difficult for squirrels to get at. This Blue Jay adjusted to the new setup in no time at all.
songbird
Adjust.
Tag: birdwatching
A House Finch visits the hopper feeder; both are highlighted by the evening sun.
A molting American Goldfinch and a fledgling perch on a sunflower just outside the kitchen window. I deduced it as a fledgling because it exhibited begging behaviour just before taking this photo, which may appear to be a little out of focus – I shot it through the window screen.
I never tire.
I never tire of watching Turkey Vultures wheel and soar. Such graceful birds.
Splish splash!
Robin’s takin’ a bath!
Portrait.
This Mourning Dove remained on the shepherd’s crook long enough for me to take its portrait.
Returned.
During mid-summer the number of birds – individuals and species – that visit the backyard decreases.
Activity is picking up now, and these two Mourning Doves are among the birds that have returned.
Protecting.
I climbed 58 steps to the top of an outdoor platform for exercise, and to take a look around this very flat part of the world. After a moment or two this Merlin began diving on me, likely protecting a nearby nest. A moment of searching did not turn it up, and since my presence was an unnecessary (and obviously unwelcome) distraction, I decided to stop looking and take my leave.
It was interesting to learn, among other things, that they take over other birds’ nests.
Sentinel.
A juvenile American Robin stands sentinel as a storm rolls in.
First sighting – of something.
A couple weeks ago I saw this unfamiliar bird hopping around the backyard, keeping away from the open lawn. I gave up ID’ing it after a short time.
While reviewing photos tonight I tried again and narrowed it down to either a Gray-cheeked Thrush or a Swainson’s Thrush, cannot decide which. I am inclined to say Swainson’s because of the distinct eyering, though they seem to forage mostly in trees.
Whichever it was, it is the first time I remember seeing such a bird.
previouslytexan 