http://www.youtube.com/watch/v/VjE0Kdfos4Y
I've seen this documentary. Marvelous creature (Decca's label L'oiseau lyre is named after it, btw).
I wanted one when I was a child (picking my favourites from a huge zoology book we had in the house), although sooner or later it might have proven embarrassing to have around (imitating flushing toilets and the like:-).
I couldn't stop laughing at that...
chainsaws and camera noise- that's impressive...
Had I received this video this as part of a forwarded e-mail, my first reaction would have been to check snopes.com. If true, -- and I suppose it is -- this is truly, truly <insert one of those wonderful superlatives that describes any aspect of Nature>. (Really, that chainsaw bit still leaves me sceptical... :-\ ;D)
And, Tasos, thanks for that piece of trivia regarding the label's name. :)
That entire documentary series, "The Life of Birds", is amazing and well worth the investment for the DVDs if you have any interest in nature or birds. There is amazing footage of all sorts of rare birds, as well as familiar birds doing things you didn't know they did.
Quote from: O Mensch on July 20, 2009, 07:25:55 AM
That entire documentary series, "The Life of Birds", is amazing and well worth the investment for the DVDs if you have any interest in nature or birds. There is amazing footage of all sorts of rare birds, as well as familiar birds doing things you didn't know they did.
And the commentary of Sir David, to boot!
Most underrated bird ever:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BGPGknpq3e0
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=03ykewnc0oE
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Nqpo9F_4Sc
I see those things flying around all the time, never knew they were this awesome. You can even get one as a pet:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L3f0zVcJOOA
Quote from: Josquin des Prez on July 20, 2009, 08:28:32 AM
Most underrated bird ever:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BGPGknpq3e0
What I find even more amazing is that someone has managed to patiently observe all this in the middle of a Japanese city!
Birds are amazing. That's why I spend many of my weekends and free days getting up early and photographing them. Some recent ones: http://www.flickr.com/photos/mvk116/sets/72157617905517384/
Messiaen on birds:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9QdgUJss9BU
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xkKrD9knBvU&feature=related
Quote from: O Mensch on July 20, 2009, 08:57:30 AM
Birds are amazing. That's why I spend many of my weekends and free days getting up early and photographing them. Some recent ones: http://www.flickr.com/photos/mvk116/sets/72157617905517384/
Really, really nice bird shots, Mensch! The tanagers are spectacular, and I can't believe the shots you got of warblers! When I see warblers, they are just unidentifiable little dots bouncing around in the tree tops! And, of course, singing.
Quote from: secondwind on July 20, 2009, 10:43:32 AM
Really, really nice bird shots, Mensch! The tanagers are spectacular, and I can't believe the shots you got of warblers! When I see warblers, they are just unidentifiable little dots bouncing around in the tree tops! And, of course, singing.
Thanks! I am lucky to live in Chicago. There is a little tip of land that sticks into Lake Michigan that is a great "migrant trap". Because small songbirds will avoid flying over water if at all possible and the prevailing westerly winds push them against the lake as they migrate north, they find themselves stuck between the lake and the immense urban sprawl of Chicago. So small nature preserves along the lakeshore like Montrose Point become magnets. During migration in mid-May you can observe some thirty species of warblers there as they pass through within a one to two week window. As the trees there are all very short, you can see most of them at eye level, and since the birds are crazy hungry from migration they are so preoccupied with feeding that they don't mind you getting a bit closer as long as you don't make jerky and jittery movements.
O Mensch, I sent the link to your pics to my best friend along with the message "We.Are.Going.To.Chicago!" She could very well book our flights before replying!! :D
Fabulous pics; thanks for sharing them!
Quote from: O Mensch on July 20, 2009, 11:06:18 AM
Thanks! I am lucky to live in Chicago. There is a little tip of land that sticks into Lake Michigan that is a great "migrant trap". Because small songbirds will avoid flying over water if at all possible and the prevailing westerly winds push them against the lake as they migrate north, they find themselves stuck between the lake and the immense urban sprawl of Chicago. So small nature preserves along the lakeshore like Montrose Point become magnets. During migration in mid-May you can observe some thirty species of warblers there as they pass through within a one to two week window. As the trees there are all very short, you can see most of them at eye level, and since the birds are crazy hungry from migration they are so preoccupied with feeding that they don't mind you getting a bit closer as long as you don't make jerky and jittery movements.
My brother lives in the Chicago area. Now I know the best time to visit him next year!
LOL! Great, the city of Chicago should pay me a commission for promoting tourism.
MORE
http://www.youtube.com/watch/v/KOFy8QkNWWs
Sounds like this one has a little recording device in his brain.
Hooray for byrds!!!
ZB
Do any of the original posters and responders still visit the GMG website?
I've recently started trying to learn more about birds and have downloaded a couple of apps (finally acquired a smart phone--that helped!). Cornell University has a great website and a free application for iOS and Android devices. There's also a group called Hawk Watch International which also has a free app (which I just downloaded); it's called Raptor ID.
Best wishes,
PD
Quote from: MishaK on July 20, 2009, 10:07:32 AM
Messiaen on birds:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9QdgUJss9BU
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xkKrD9knBvU&feature=related
Thank you for posting these links: fascinating!
Hoping that you and others here are still visiting this site?
PD
I just noticed on the Cornell live bird cams' website that the Barred Owl (located out in Indiana) has just had a chick. Believe that there are three eggs. When I went to watch the cam for a few minutes, I noticed that one of the eggs had hatched; it looked like she was feeding it. Alas, the view of the newbie was short-lived; it's now nestled warm and cozy and safe under her. https://www.allaboutbirds.org/cams/barred-owls/
Best,
PD
The owlets have grown quite a bit! Amazing to watch: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/cams/barred-owls/
Earlier this morning, noticed Arthur (the red-tailed hawk) carefully feeding his little ones--including the tiniest one which was relieving to see as about a week ago, I was checking on the Savannah ospreys and the youngest and tiniest of the lot didn't make it. Hard to watch the little one die.
The tiny hawks are now sleeping away with full stomachs.
I know that the red-tailed hawks are common, but I still find them amazing to watch. Found a nest nearby....can't see anything though as it is so high up in the air! The reason that I and a friend out on a walk noticed it to begin with was that we saw a hawk flying with a branch in its mouth and land on the nest. :)
Anyone else here have any reports of sitings? Or favorite birds to watch?
PD
Saw a kingfisher today. Only had the small pocket camera though.
Quote from: steve ridgway on May 06, 2020, 04:43:27 AM
Saw a kingfisher today. Only had the small pocket camera though.
Oh, neat! I don't recall seeing one before now.
Saw about four red-winged blackbirds a few days ago whilst getting a walk in with a friend. I took some photos of them, but alas, they were too far away and didn't come out well at all.
EDIT: These guys are just too cute and growing up quickly! https://www.allaboutbirds.org/cams/barred-owls/
Was stunned today when I went to check on the red-tailed hawk fledglings/juvies still currently living on the campus of Cornell. Big Red (the female) and her mate Arthur had three chicks. I've followed their progress from birth and had grown quite fond of them. They are at the point now that they've all managed to catch at least one meal themselves (other than bugs) but are still learning about life, hunting, and perfecting their flying skills.
One thing that I learned pretty early on was that roughly 80 percent of birds do not survive their first year (some reports are even higher than that). It still came as a shock to me that the oldest of the chicks died a couple of days ago. She was so beautiful and had a lovely voice too and suspect would have made a great mother like her own. They are doing an autopsy at Cornell to see if they can find out why she died.
PD
An American Avocet wading for breakfast.
Quote from: Todd on July 18, 2020, 01:20:48 PM
An American Avocet wading for breakfast.
Is that one of the birds in your neck of the woods Todd? Neat coloring and a sweet little chirping sound.
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on July 18, 2020, 01:37:38 PM
Is that one of the birds in your neck of the woods Todd? Neat coloring and a sweet little chirping sound.
I don't believe I have seen them where I live. The lake where I shot this is a seven hour drive away.
White Faced Ibis.
They're fascinating to watch aren't they?
I've seen red-tailed hawks in my area...one time quite closely and became interested in learning more about them. Someone, I think, told me about Cornell's bird cams and I was hooked. Cornell has two cams on its campus (including a feeder cam) but also streams others too. They also have a free app (called Merlin) which you can download on your cell phone. It's very handy for identifying birds. A great website too. https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/search
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on July 18, 2020, 01:56:02 PMThey're fascinating to watch aren't they?
When I take trips to rural and wildlife areas, I keep an eye out for all manner of wildlife. This last trip the only thing I saw of note were new birds, so that is what I shot. I'm opportunistic when I take photos. Lake Abert, where I shot the Avocet, had more birds gathered than I've ever seen in one spot. I had to alternate between two cameras, one taking sunrise shots over the butte, and one taking shots of thousands/tens-of-thousands of birds feeding. The unpredictability of flight always makes for invigorating shooting. Bless DSLRs and 128 GB SD cards.
While out and about over the holiday weekend, I spotted this trio of American White Pelicans swimming and fishing together, in almost perfect unison. I watched and shot them for probably 10-15 minutes.
Second shot.
How nice it must have been to have seen them! Do you have a telephoto lens that could bring your view (and picture) closer?
A friend and I went for a short walk by a river and saw several pelican flying around; wish that i could have viewed them a bit closer (and not flying away so quickly!). Still, cool to see. :)
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on September 08, 2020, 11:43:33 AMHow nice it must have been to have seen them! Do you have a telephoto lens that could bring your view (and picture) closer?
No. Those shots were from 100+ yards out. A longer telephoto is not justified.
They zoom in fine for me. Lugging a massive expensive lens over my shoulder and a heavy tripod is not my idea of "out and about".
Quote from: steve ridgway on September 08, 2020, 08:21:40 PM
They zoom in fine for me. Lugging a massive expensive lens over my shoulder and a heavy tripod is not my idea of "out and about".
What sort of equipment do you use Steve? And, when you've captured a decent closeup, any idea of about how far away you were?
And, I meant that I had seen some herons the other day...not pelicans. ::)
PD
Quote from: Szykneij on February 16, 2021, 06:30:51 AM
I don't know how much climate change and COVID have to do with it, but even though I'm just 5 miles out from downtown Boston, there was a coyote roaming down my street early yesterday evening. It was probably hunting a rabbit or other small animal whose populations have exploded as of late, just like the hawks that targeted my bird feeders all summer.
We've had steady rain all morning, which won't melt all of our snow and will probably create a hard, slippery glaze after temperatures drop down below freezing again.
Looks like you had a juvie coopie visiting you? :)
I often see red-tailed hawks in my area. I love it when I see one. Just realized that it was a year ago Presidents' Day when I saw my first one whilst out walking with a friend. :)
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on February 16, 2021, 06:48:15 AM
Looks like you had a juvie coopie visiting you? :)
I often see red-tailed hawks in my area. I love it when I see one. Just realized that it was a year ago Presidents' Day when I saw my first one whilst out walking with a friend. :)
PD
We get red-tails, too.
I don't know if my owl photo is as good as Gurn's, but I took this one while I was out walking my dogs in a nearby reservation.
Quote from: Szykneij on February 16, 2021, 07:16:03 AM
We get red-tails, too.
I don't know if my owl photo is as good as Gurn's, but I took this one while I was out walking my dogs in a nearby reservation.
Cool! Was this early one morning?
My neighbors and I have a number of tall trees in our yards; I often see them there. About a month-ish ago, I was walking past one neighbor's house, heard a rustle and saw something out of the corner of my eye. I turned and looked: it was a RTH on the ground. It then flew off low over a short fence with a grey squirrel in its talons.
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on February 16, 2021, 06:44:03 AM
I'd love to see your owl picture! :) And a panther?! I ended up doing some googling and see that there are such creatures as jaguarundi in Texas. https://texasnativecats.org/cats-of-texas/ I want to go back to a trail/dog path not too far away. I spoke to someone a few months ago who told me that she saw a snowy owl there. I haven't checked the local weather lately (did just put on the Weather Channel a few minutes ago), but we escaped in my area today. Warm enough at the moment that the rain didn't freeze.
Do you guys have a backup generator?
PD
(https://i.imgur.com/MrudPpV.jpg)
I can't find the owl yet (it's among hundreds if not thousands of pictures), but here is a Broadwinged Hawk that started off the New Year for us. IIRC, the owl was facing the camera, the hawk is looking towards where the food is. :D I was driving when I saw the panther (puma, cougar, mountain lion, catamount &c.) so no picture. A jaguarundi is really a Mexican native that occasionally shows up in south and west Texas. Panthers were reputedly extinct here, but there is actually a healthy population, they just are very good at laying low.
Yes, we have a generator, but it is only big enough to run the lights and 120 volt outlets, not appliances (except the microwave) or the central heat/air. We are looking at a new one, this one is 12 years old and has been used heavily in that time. Like to go with LP gas so I don't have to keep a huge supply of petrol laying about.
8)
(https://i.imgur.com/VpuqTqw.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/nbynZTP.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/iNYZUTE.jpg)
Still looking for the daytime pic, I didn't tag it with anything, so I can't search for "owl" and hope to find it that way. :-\
This Barn Owl pair was having a nice frolic over the course of a couple of evenings. Can't recall what we had decided they were hunting for, maybe fish.
8)
Quote from: Gurn Blanston on February 16, 2021, 08:31:59 AM
(https://i.imgur.com/MrudPpV.jpg)
I can't find the owl yet (it's among hundreds if not thousands of pictures), but here is a Broadwinged Hawk that started off the New Year for us. IIRC, the owl was facing the camera, the hawk is looking towards where the food is. :D I was driving when I saw the panther (puma, cougar, mountain lion, catamount &c.) so no picture. A jaguarundi is really a Mexican native that occasionally shows up in south and west Texas. Panthers were reputedly extinct here, but there is actually a healthy population, they just are very good at laying low.
Yes, we have a generator, but it is only big enough to run the lights and 120 volt outlets, not appliances (except the microwave) or the central heat/air. We are looking at a new one, this one is 12 years old and has been used heavily in that time. Like to go with LP gas so I don't have to keep a huge supply of petrol laying about.
8)
Nice photo! I love it when they are stretching their wings out. :-) Looks like it is perched on a metal fencing stake? What color was your over-sized 'kitty' by the way?
No generator here--though I've been tempted. The power goes out on occasion, but (knock on wood) it normally is restored in about an hour or so.
By the way, there's a very helpful app called Merlin which was created by the folks at Cornell. Some birdwatching friends told me about it a few years ago. It can help you to ID birds in your area and it's free. https://merlin.allaboutbirds.org/download/ I also like using their website (allaboutbirds).
Neat owl pics too. The way that their eyes are shining makes them look like some sort of supernatural creature!
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on February 16, 2021, 08:56:05 AM
Nice photo! I love it when they are stretching their wings out. :-) Looks like it is perched on a metal fencing stake? What color was your over-sized 'kitty' by the way?
No generator here--though I've been tempted. The power goes out on occasion, but (knock on wood) it normally is restored in about an hour or so.
By the way, there's a very helpful app called Merlin which was created by the folks at Cornell. Some birdwatching friends told me about it a few years ago. It can help you to ID birds in your area and it's free. https://merlin.allaboutbirds.org/download/ I also like using their website (allaboutbirds).
Neat owl pics too. The way that their eyes are shining makes them look like some sort of supernatural creature!
Yeah, I like that one, even though it took me a while to identify him. We have tons of red-tailed hawks here, they are the most common species in East Texas. The are averagely even larger than this guy. It took me a little while to identify him from the back like that. The white patches on the wings were the giveaway though. I will check out that app, that could be very useful. We have so many birds here, you would be amazed. When the birds up north fly south for the winter, this is where they come. I couldn't count all the Cardinals at the feeder yesterday, probably nearly 200! :o
The panther was a rather darkish brown overall. Couldn't mistake the long tail, that knocked 'bobcat' right out of the equation. Plus, if a bobcat was that big, I would give up and go home! :D
Sometimes when ours goes out, it is a week or more. Hurricanes can be amazingly damaging.
8)
Quote from: Wanderer on February 16, 2021, 08:24:37 AM
Drone footage from Athens:
https://youtu.be/VNHuGDp9BUo (https://youtu.be/VNHuGDp9BUo)
https://youtu.be/2BW-3XVyAAs (https://youtu.be/2BW-3XVyAAs)
Awesome videos. I'm a kite flyer myself, so I don't know much about drones. Is operating in inclement weather an issue? It seems like it wouldn't take much snow buildup to bring one down.
Quote from: Gurn Blanston on February 16, 2021, 08:31:59 AM
(https://i.imgur.com/MrudPpV.jpg)
I can't find the owl yet (it's among hundreds if not thousands of pictures), but here is a Broadwinged Hawk that started off the New Year for us. IIRC, the owl was facing the camera, the hawk is looking towards where the food is. :D I was driving when I saw the panther (puma, cougar, mountain lion, catamount &c.) so no picture. A jaguarundi is really a Mexican native that occasionally shows up in south and west Texas. Panthers were reputedly extinct here, but there is actually a healthy population, they just are very good at laying low.
Yes, we have a generator, but it is only big enough to run the lights and 120 volt outlets, not appliances (except the microwave) or the central heat/air. We are looking at a new one, this one is 12 years old and has been used heavily in that time. Like to go with LP gas so I don't have to keep a huge supply of petrol laying about. Quote from: Gurn Blanston on February 16, 2021, 08:31:59 AM
8)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eh4jRtvSQ0Y
(https://i.imgur.com/MrudPpV.jpg)
I can't find the owl yet (it's among hundreds if not thousands of pictures), but here is a Broadwinged Hawk that started off the New Year for us. IIRC, the owl was facing the camera, the hawk is looking towards where the food is. :D I was driving when I saw the panther (puma, cougar, mountain lion, catamount &c.) so no picture. A jaguarundi is really a Mexican native that occasionally shows up in south and west Texas. Panthers were reputedly extinct here, but there is actually a healthy population, they just are very good at laying low.
Yes, we have a generator, but it is only big enough to run the lights and 120 volt outlets, not appliances (except the microwave) or the central heat/air. We are looking at a new one, this one is 12 years old and has been used heavily in that time. Like to go with LP gas so I don't have to keep a huge supply of petrol laying about.
8)
Good job IDing that bird by the way. Normally, I have good luck IDing them using Merlin. I've even used it (on my old iPhone) to ID birds at the Cornell's feeder cam by taking a screen shot. Though I didn't have luck when I tried using your photo with it (even though I changed the location and entered your date into it). You can go about it two ways: 1) take a photo with your cell phone (open the app): it then asks you 1) where did you see the bird? 2) when did you see it? 3) it then gives you seven different buttons that you can tap on with some images and asks you what size was the bird? 4) what were the main colors (select 1 to 3)? and 5) Was the bird...? asking what it was doing or where seated
...and I entered all that in and it still didn't bring up
You know what, I was just looking at the wing shape and also the number of feathers on the wingtip. Looks like 5 and squared off or rounded (vs. pointed); wonder if it might actually be a red-shouldered hawk? https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Red-shouldered_Hawk/media-browser/71533401 Any more photos of de bird?
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on February 16, 2021, 10:30:01 AM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eh4jRtvSQ0Y
(https://i.imgur.com/MrudPpV.jpg)
I can't find the owl yet (it's among hundreds if not thousands of pictures), but here is a Broadwinged Hawk that started off the New Year for us. IIRC, the owl was facing the camera, the hawk is looking towards where the food is. :D I was driving when I saw the panther (puma, cougar, mountain lion, catamount &c.) so no picture. A jaguarundi is really a Mexican native that occasionally shows up in south and west Texas. Panthers were reputedly extinct here, but there is actually a healthy population, they just are very good at laying low.
Yes, we have a generator, but it is only big enough to run the lights and 120 volt outlets, not appliances (except the microwave) or the central heat/air. We are looking at a new one, this one is 12 years old and has been used heavily in that time. Like to go with LP gas so I don't have to keep a huge supply of petrol laying about.
8)
Good job IDing that bird by the way. Normally, I have good luck IDing them using Merlin. I've even used it (on my old iPhone) to ID birds at the Cornell's feeder cam by taking a screen shot. Though I didn't have luck when I tried using your photo with it (even though I changed the location and entered your date into it). You can go about it two ways: 1) take a photo with your cell phone (open the app): it then asks you 1) where did you see the bird? 2) when did you see it? 3) it then gives you seven different buttons that you can tap on with some images and asks you what size was the bird? 4) what were the main colors (select 1 to 3)? and 5) Was the bird...? asking what it was doing or where seated
...and I entered all that in and it still didn't bring up
You know what, I was just looking at the wing shape and also the number of feathers on the wingtip. Looks like 5 and squared off or rounded (vs. pointed); wonder if it might actually be a red-shouldered hawk? https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Red-shouldered_Hawk/media-browser/71533401 Any more photos of de bird?
Thanks. Broadwinged Hawks are very common in the Piney Woods, north of Houston. He also fits the size criterion quite nicely. There are 14 species of hawks which are regular denizens here. This is a very nice site which I use often;
https://birdfeederhub.com/hawks-in-texas/ The 14 species of Hawks in Texas
https://birdfeederhub.com/owls-in-texas/ The 11 species of Owls in Texas
Red-Shouldered Hawks are noticeably smaller than Red-Tails or Broadwings, which are nearly the same size. Somewhere I also have a picture of a Red-Tail sitting on that same fence post, and they are nearly identical in size.
We need to start bird-watching thread so the meteorologists among us don't blow a fuse... ;) :D
8)
Quote from: Gurn Blanston on February 16, 2021, 11:15:42 AM
Thanks. Broadwinged Hawks are very common in the Piney Woods, north of Houston. He also fits the size criterion quite nicely. There are 14 species of hawks which are regular denizens here. This is a very nice site which I use often;
https://birdfeederhub.com/hawks-in-texas/ The 14 species of Hawks in Texas
https://birdfeederhub.com/owls-in-texas/ The 11 species of Owls in Texas
Red-Shouldered Hawks are noticeably smaller than Red-Tails or Broadwings, which are nearly the same size. Somewhere I also have a picture of a Red-Tail sitting on that same fence post, and they are nearly identical in size.
We need to start bird-watching thread so the meteorologists among us don't blow a fuse... ;) :D
8)
I've been learning that IDing birds can be quite tricky! For one thing: in different parts of the US, for example, dark morphs are much more common. I also checked out one I believe it was a Peterson Guide video on youtube that also said that not all red-tailed hawks get their red tail....oy! ::) And trying to understand the differences between juvies and adults and male vs. female and non-breeding male and so on.
Anyway, thanks, I'll check out those links. And there is a bird thread somewhere (in Diner). I'll find it and modify my posting here shortly.
EDIT: It's called "This bird is awesome" and is currently on page 5 I believe (in the Diner). Feel free to move whatever there of course. :) I had tried to revive the thread in the past, but almost no one seemed interested in participating. :(
Hi Guys - thanks for all of the wonderful posts & pics! I'm also a bird lover (although penguins, puffins and pelicans are some of my favorites, the latter seen often on our now postponed visits to the Carolina coast - FIRST PIC though is mine from a recent trip to the Georgia coast) - BUT I do have a fondness for raptors. In July of 2019, we decided to celebrate our anniversary with a return visit to the Homestead Resort (https://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/homestead-virginia) in Virginia (just a 4-hr drive) (first pic below) - numerous activities are available and one afternoon we did the introductory lesson to falconry! Linda was our guide and of her birds, she selected a Harris hawk (next 3 pics); we all put on the glove and held the bird (just showing the photo of a little boy who looked cuter than me!) - if we return and she (or another falconer is there), the next lesson has the bird fly onto your gloved forearm.
About an hour south of us near Charlotte is the Carolina Raptor Center (http://www.carolinaraptorcenter.org/visit/), a rescue facility w/ outside cages and walking trails - all sorts of injured raptors are on display (last pic) - we've gone about 4 times but have not been back since some rebuilding and renovations have occurred - but will do depending on the COVID pandemic! Dave :)
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/Miscellaneous/i-rVc4JHp/0/41b51cf3/L/4B_Simons_Pier_Pelican-L.jpg) (https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/Miscellaneous/i-94ZNSH5/0/b39fcbce/O/HSAnn19A.jpg)
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/Miscellaneous/i-7xCFwxC/0/8d270286/L/HSAnn19B-L.jpg) (https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/Miscellaneous/i-wJn88QX/0/9e876a24/L/HSAnn19C-L.jpg)
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/Miscellaneous/i-p46qRLv/0/e99cfad6/L/HSAnn19D-L.jpg) (https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/Miscellaneous/i-9vQkPBW/0/202aeb9e/L/HSAnn19E-L.jpg)
Quote from: SonicMan46 on February 16, 2021, 12:21:41 PM
Hi Guys - thanks for all of the wonderful posts, pics, and drone flights over Athens! I'm also a bird lover (although penguins, puffins and pelicans are some of my favorites, the latter seen often on our now postponed visits to the Carolina coast - FIRST PIC though is mine from a recent trip to the Georgia coast) - BUT I do have a fondness for raptors. In July of 2019, we decided to celebrate our anniversary with a return visit to the Homestead Resort (https://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/homestead-virginia) in Virginia (just a 4-hr drive) (first pic below) - numerous activities are available and one afternoon we did the introductory lesson to falconry! Linda was our guide and of her birds, she selected a Harris hawk (next 3 pics); we all put on the glove and held the bird (just showing the photo of a little boy who looked cuter than me!) - if we return and she (or another falconer is there), the next lesson has the bird fly onto your gloved forearm.
About an hour south of us near Charlotte is the Carolina Raptor Center (http://www.carolinaraptorcenter.org/visit/), a rescue facility w/ outside cages and walking trails - all sorts of injured raptors are on display (last pic) - we've gone about 4 times but have not been back since some rebuilding and renovations have occurred - but will do depending on the COVID pandemic! Dave :)
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/Miscellaneous/i-rVc4JHp/0/41b51cf3/L/4B_Simons_Pier_Pelican-L.jpg) (https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/Miscellaneous/i-94ZNSH5/0/b39fcbce/O/HSAnn19A.jpg)
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/Miscellaneous/i-7xCFwxC/0/8d270286/L/HSAnn19B-L.jpg) (https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/Miscellaneous/i-wJn88QX/0/9e876a24/L/HSAnn19C-L.jpg)
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/Miscellaneous/i-p46qRLv/0/e99cfad6/L/HSAnn19D-L.jpg) (https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/Miscellaneous/i-9vQkPBW/0/202aeb9e/L/HSAnn19E-L.jpg)
Cool! I knew that there was a reason that I liked you! 8) ;) A friend of mine said that he almost purchased a falconry class for me as a present; he certainly knows me. Hope to do it sometime in my life. And thanks for the photos too. :)
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on February 16, 2021, 11:54:11 AM
I've been learning that IDing birds can be quite tricky! For one thing: in different parts of the US, for example, dark morphs are much more common. I also checked out one I believe it was a Peterson Guide video on youtube that also said that not all red-tailed hawks get their red tail....oy! ::) And trying to understand the differences between juvies and adults and male vs. female and non-breeding male and so on.
Anyway, thanks, I'll check out those links. And there is a bird thread somewhere (in Diner). I'll find it and modify my posting here shortly.
EDIT: It's called "This bird is awesome" and is currently on page 5 I believe (in the Diner). Feel free to move whatever there of course. :) I had tried to revive the thread in the past, but almost no one seemed interested in participating. :(
I'll have a look for that thread. I have no memory of ever seeing it (but wouldn't be surprised if I was the top poster in it ::) ), but we'll make it happen. I can just cut this whole section and put it into that thread, that should pep it up some.
Quote from: SonicMan46 on February 16, 2021, 12:21:41 PM
Hi Guys - thanks for all of the wonderful posts, pics, and drone flights over Athens! I'm also a bird lover (although penguins, puffins and pelicans are some of my favorites, the latter seen often on our now postponed visits to the Carolina coast - FIRST PIC though is mine from a recent trip to the Georgia coast) - BUT I do have a fondness for raptors. In July of 2019, we decided to celebrate our anniversary with a return visit to the Homestead Resort (https://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/homestead-virginia) in Virginia (just a 4-hr drive) (first pic below) - numerous activities are available and one afternoon we did the introductory lesson to falconry! Linda was our guide and of her birds, she selected a Harris hawk (next 3 pics); we all put on the glove and held the bird (just showing the photo of a little boy who looked cuter than me!) - if we return and she (or another falconer is there), the next lesson has the bird fly onto your gloved forearm.
About an hour south of us near Charlotte is the Carolina Raptor Center (http://www.carolinaraptorcenter.org/visit/), a rescue facility w/ outside cages and walking trails - all sorts of injured raptors are on display (last pic) - we've gone about 4 times but have not been back since some rebuilding and renovations have occurred - but will do depending on the COVID pandemic! Dave :)
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/Miscellaneous/i-rVc4JHp/0/41b51cf3/L/4B_Simons_Pier_Pelican-L.jpg) (https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/Miscellaneous/i-94ZNSH5/0/b39fcbce/O/HSAnn19A.jpg)
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/Miscellaneous/i-7xCFwxC/0/8d270286/L/HSAnn19B-L.jpg) (https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/Miscellaneous/i-wJn88QX/0/9e876a24/L/HSAnn19C-L.jpg)
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/Miscellaneous/i-p46qRLv/0/e99cfad6/L/HSAnn19D-L.jpg) (https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/Miscellaneous/i-9vQkPBW/0/202aeb9e/L/HSAnn19E-L.jpg)
Nice post, Dave. That Harris Hawk is super. They occur here, but like all smaller hawks, they are hard to identify in the field because they always seem to be going away from you at 90 mph. The big hawks are generally easier, especially the biggest of them here, the Red-Tail. We have 3 big nests right on our property, and one of them used to be on the top of a big tree at the bottom of the hill we live on, which put it slightly above eye-level from the back porch, great way to watch birds grow up!
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Excellent! Thanks Gurn! ;D So envious of you for having a nest at nearly eye-level! There's a nest near me, but it's so high up that it's almost impossible to see what is going on in there. Forget being able to watch the chicks. Thankfully, Cornell has two hawk cams which I can watch. Recently, the female RTH was caught on camera doing some nest work. :)
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on February 16, 2021, 12:56:35 PM
Excellent! Thanks Gurn! ;D So envious of you for having a nest at nearly eye-level! There's a nest near me, but it's so high up that it's almost impossible to see what is going on in there. Forget being able to watch the chicks. Thankfully, Cornell has two hawk cams which I can watch. Recently, the female RTH was caught on camera doing some nest work. :)
There are benefits to living on top of the highest point of land in the vicinity!
You remember that Bald Eagles' nest in DC? I used to watch that webcam every day, it was fascinating to see the young'uns growing up!
Did you ever see a hawk "boof" a songbird? Well, it's their job, can't begrudge them the occasional Cardinal. I was looking out the window while waiting for my coffee to brew, and the sun was coming over the house behind me. A Cardinal popped up out of the feeder, and suddenly a small hawk (too fast to see) came right down the ridgeline of the house out of the sun, thus invisible to the Cardinals) and boofed that one in a big explosion of red feathers. It really was interesting, it seemed he was going 100 mph, I'm curious how fast. Then perched on a high branch and ate breakfast. :)
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Quote from: Gurn Blanston on February 16, 2021, 01:16:36 PM
There are benefits to living on top of the highest point of land in the vicinity!
You remember that Bald Eagles' nest in DC? I used to watch that webcam every day, it was fascinating to see the young'uns growing up!
Did you ever see a hawk "boof" a songbird? Well, it's their job, can't begrudge them the occasional Cardinal. I was looking out the window while waiting for my coffee to brew, and the sun was coming over the house behind me. A Cardinal popped up out of the feeder, and suddenly a small hawk (too fast to see) came right down the ridgeline of the house out of the sun, thus invisible to the Cardinals) and boofed that one in a big explosion of red feathers. It really was interesting, it seemed he was going 100 mph, I'm curious how fast. Then perched on a high branch and ate breakfast. :)
Thanks
Gurn for your further contributions - seems like you live in 'raptor heaven'! :laugh: In my yard, I see occasional red-shouldered hawks (and probably some others that I don't recognize) - Dave :)
Great thread! I'm a keen birder these days - we don't get an awful lot of birds of prey here in London though I did have a sparrowhawk making a mess of a pigeon in my back garden three years back.
I have a feeder set up within sight of my bedroom window so I can watch quite a selection over the year - European robins, bluetits and great tits are the every day visitors but I get long tailed tits, coal tits, goldfinches, collared doves, starlings, and very occasionally jays and parakeets. And cleaning up the mess beneath tend to be dunnocks, blackbirds and thrushes.
That's pretty much the full gamut of British garden birds in this part of London so I'm pretty lucky. I would love some sparrows as they're very characterful and I love their chatter but it's like west side story - you can only have the sparrows or the tits, not both, and this is Tit Town. 😄
This weekend was exciting as the local park had some redwings feasting on the winter berries and I got close enough to get a good view. Normally they are so shy you'd be lucky to get within 20 feet but the glut made them brave I guess!
Quote from: Benji on February 16, 2021, 03:42:10 PM
Great thread! I'm a keen birder these days - we don't get an awful lot of birds of prey here in London though I did have a sparrowhawk making a mess of a pigeon in my back garden three years back.
I have a feeder set up within sight of my bedroom window so I can watch quite a selection over the year - European robins, bluetits and great tits are the every day visitors but I get long tailed tits, coal tits, goldfinches, collared doves, starlings, and very occasionally jays and parakeets. And cleaning up the mess beneath tend to be dunnocks, blackbirds and thrushes.
That's pretty much the full gamut of British garden birds in this part of London so I'm pretty lucky. I would love some sparrows as they're very characterful and I love their chatter but it's like west side story - you can only have the sparrows or the tits, not both, and this is Tit Town. 😄
This weekend was exciting as the local park had some redwings feasting on the winter berries and I got close enough to get a good view. Normally they are so shy you'd be lucky to get within 20 feet but the glut made them brave I guess!
Nice, I've often wondered what there was for an urban birder to enjoy other than pigeons (AKA - rats with wings). The only ones I've ever heard about as far as birds of prey are concerned is Peregrine Falcons, which nest on building ledges in New York (and I imagine other urban centers).
Over here, at least in Texas, tits is reserved for other uses, but we have an overwhelming number of songbirds which overwinter here, finches of several sorts, grosbeaks, buntings, tanagers, lots of woodpeckers (it's a pine forest, after all), and in summer, a different suite of regulars, after those first ones have headed north for the summer. I never fail to be amazed at the sheer numbers and diversity outside my back door. I always enjoyed birding, but never got a fraction of what I've had for the last 35 years down here.
Do you keep a list/diary/sighting guide, whatever? I haven't done in the past, but my memory, heretofore superb, sometimes fails me now that the catalog is so large, so I think I will begin to do so. Haven't even mentioned the waterbirds yet... :)
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Quote from: Gurn Blanston on February 16, 2021, 03:59:13 PM
Nice, I've often wondered what there was for an urban birder to enjoy other than pigeons (AKA - rats with wings). The only ones I've ever heard about as far as birds of prey are concerned is Peregrine Falcons, which nest on building ledges in New York (and I imagine other urban centers).
Over here, at least in Texas, tits is reserved for other uses, but we have an overwhelming number of songbirds which overwinter here, finches of several sorts, grosbeaks, buntings, tanagers, lots of woodpeckers (it's a pine forest, after all), and in summer, a different suite of regulars, after those first ones have headed north for the summer. I never fail to be amazed at the sheer numbers and diversity outside my back door. I always enjoyed birding, but never got a fraction of what I've had for the last 35 years down here.
Do you keep a list/diary/sighting guide, whatever? I haven't done in the past, but my memory, heretofore superb, sometimes fails me now that the catalog is so large, so I think I will begin to do so. Haven't even mentioned the waterbirds yet... :)
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Once your eyes are open to them there are birds everywhere and such variety. I forgot even to mention the humble wrens that visit my garden... which is unforgivable given it is my niece's name (my sister has the bird bug too, via our father!)
I sometimes keep a log on the British ornithological trust website, which they use to keep statistics so I feel it's helpful for conservation efforts. Perhaps there is a US equivalent, I'd imagine so. I visited Iowa in 2013 and saw the Cardinals. I understand they are a bit violent but so beautiful! And of course the Mississippi was frozen when I visited but I got to see so many bald eagles fishing through holes in the ice. What an experience!
Quote from: Benji on February 16, 2021, 04:29:45 PM
Once your eyes are open to them there are birds everywhere and such variety. I forgot even to mention the humble wrens that visit my garden... which is unforgivable given it is my niece's name (my sister has the bird bug too, via our father!)
I sometimes keep a log on the British ornithological trust website, which they use to keep statistics so I feel it's helpful for conservation efforts. Perhaps there is a US equivalent, I'd imagine so. I visited Iowa in 2013 and saw the Cardinals. I understand they are a bit violent but so beautiful! And of course the Mississippi was frozen when I visited but I got to see so many bald eagles fishing through holes in the ice. What an experience!
Oh yes, no doubt there, lots more birds than we realize. We have a flock which constitute ca. 60% of the entire and is constituted solely of what we just call "small brown and grey birds". They are the 'background noise' upon which the whole daily avian theater plays itself out. Yet when one bothers to dissect the group and identify the individual species, there are dozens of them which are quite interesting in all but colour.
The Audubon Society nationally keep a census and enlists locals to help count on one certain day of the year. I haven't the skill to join that (many of that lot can do a count just by listening!!), but in conjunction with it they also publish a list for each area of all the birds one can expect to see there. I would like to get a copy of that to keep on hand. Then I can log by their system. As it is, my main book is "Peterson's Field Guide to the Birds of Texas", which easily equals in size "Birds of the Eastern US", and surpasses "Birds of the Western US", due to our unique location we are more or less the epicenter of birds in North America.
Bald Eagles are making a comeback, which is great. I have seen them here, one had perched for a couple of days at the end of our pond in a large tree. We hoped he would decide to nest, but no. Also saw one in Vermont when I went home to visit family. That would have been unheard of when I was a child there. I saw it out the train window as we skirted the shore of The Lake and was thrilled by what it added to the already surpassingly lovely view. :)
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Quote from: Gurn Blanston on February 16, 2021, 01:16:36 PM
There are benefits to living on top of the highest point of land in the vicinity!
You remember that Bald Eagles' nest in DC? I used to watch that webcam every day, it was fascinating to see the young'uns growing up!
Did you ever see a hawk "boof" a songbird? Well, it's their job, can't begrudge them the occasional Cardinal. I was looking out the window while waiting for my coffee to brew, and the sun was coming over the house behind me. A Cardinal popped up out of the feeder, and suddenly a small hawk (too fast to see) came right down the ridgeline of the house out of the sun, thus invisible to the Cardinals) and boofed that one in a big explosion of red feathers. It really was interesting, it seemed he was going 100 mph, I'm curious how fast. Then perched on a high branch and ate breakfast. :)
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No, I have not (re bird cam). Haven't heard the term "boof" before either (but figured out what you meant by context).
We have way too many squirrels around here; I'd prefer that any raptors in the area would go after them!
Has anyone here ever been 'buzzed' by a hawk before? :)
Benji,
It sounds like you have a nice variety visiting your yard?
I have a friend who almost every morning (whilst working on her morning coffee) sits at their kitchen table with a pair of binoculars at hand recording the number and variety of birds that she sees in their backyard for the Audubon society; she's been doing this for decades. She has a number of feeders set up in their backyard. They also have a stream running through it. I remember seeing a heron in it one year when I was visiting them in the wintertime.
Recently saw a blue heron flying along a river landing in a tree--which quite surprised me and the friend who was with me! And two falls ago, we saw a pair of bald eagles way up high in a tree by the same river--thanks to some other folks who had noticed them first and had stopped to look at them. Also, early last spring same friend and I were walking around my neighborhood and I happened to notice a red-tailed hawk flying overhead with a stick in its mouth and was able to see where it landed. And, yup, there was a nest probably about 70' up off of the ground in a tree. That was a happy day! ;D
PD
I had posted this elsewhere (in the Pictures you like thread), but thought that I would copy it here. I loved the story and was very touched by it and these photos in particular.
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on February 11, 2021, 09:43:41 AM
https://www.today.com/pets/rescued-owl-gives-big-hug-man-who-helped-save-her-t97136
(https://static.boredpanda.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/rescue-owl-hugs-man-gigi-douglas-pojeky-3.jpg)
(http://www.gannett-cdn.com/-mm-/a889bbcd29a7e4098dc3e637105b9b7c1c6d3a7a/c=0-2-974-1301&r=537&c=0-0-534-712/local/-/media/2016/06/08/USATODAY/USATODAY/636009817071471484-Screen-Shot-2016-06-08-at-11.20.22-AM.jpg)
A great story!
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on February 17, 2021, 02:19:38 AM
No, I have not (re bird cam). Haven't heard the term "boof" before either (but figured out what you meant by context).
We have way too many squirrels around here; I'd prefer that any raptors in the area would go after them!
Has anyone here ever been 'buzzed' by a hawk before? :)
Benji,
It sounds like you have a nice variety visiting your yard?
I have a friend who almost every morning (whilst working on her morning coffee) sits at their kitchen table with a pair of binoculars at hand recording the number and variety of birds that she sees in their backyard for the Audubon society; she's been doing this for decades. She has a number of feeders set up in their backyard. They also have a stream running through it. I remember seeing a heron in it one year when I was visiting them in the wintertime.
Recently saw a blue heron flying along a river landing in a tree--which quite surprised me and the friend who was with me! And two falls ago, we saw a pair of bald eagles way up high in a tree by the same river--thanks to some other folks who had noticed them first and had stopped to look at them. Also, early last spring same friend and I were walking around my neighborhood and I happened to notice a red-tailed hawk flying overhead with a stick in its mouth and was able to see where it landed. And, yup, there was a nest probably about 70' up off of the ground in a tree. That was a happy day! ;D
PD
Yep, boof is just onomatopoeia in action. :D
We have a 'pet' Blue Heron at the pond, he has lived most of his life there and doesn't easily suffer others. Here he is raiding our stock of young catfish:
(https://i.imgur.com/Z1rzDSQ.jpg)
I like your friend's occupation. I need to find one of the lists they make for that. Probably at Audubon.org, I would guess.
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Quote from: Gurn Blanston on February 17, 2021, 07:18:37 AM
Yep, boof is just onomatopoeia in action. :D
We have a 'pet' Blue Heron at the pond, he has lived most of his life there and doesn't easily suffer others. Here he is raiding our stock of young catfish:
(https://i.imgur.com/Z1rzDSQ.jpg)
I like your friend's occupation. I need to find one of the lists they make for that. Probably at Audubon.org, I would guess.
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Yet another cool photo! I suspect that he or she isn't interested in sharing any of their catches with you, the landlord?
I've heard of eBird before and suspect that that is how my friend is now doing it these days though I will ask. It's a joint project that was created by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and Audubon. You can read about it here...just scroll down a bit: https://www.audubon.org/news/how-use-ebird
Went for a short walk today out in the sun: chilly but crisp and sunny. No hawk sightings alas. May go for a longer walk after I finish lunch. I love going down to a local river and walking around there. :)
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on February 17, 2021, 07:58:24 AM
Yet another cool photo! I suspect that he or she isn't interested in sharing any of their catches with you, the landlord?
I've heard of eBird before and suspect that that is how my friend is now doing it these days though I will ask. It's a joint project that was created by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and Audubon. You can read about it here...just scroll down a bit: https://www.audubon.org/news/how-use-ebird
Went for a short walk today out in the sun: chilly but crisp and sunny. No hawk sightings alas. May go for a longer walk after I finish lunch. I love going down to a local river and walking around there. :)
No, he would sooner we never showed up, I believe. :)
eBird, eh? Well knowing even that name should enable me to find it. But any further info would be cool.
Here is another shot of that lad, you can see he is ready for the lady of his dreams to arrive at his pond. FYI, she did, they had a baby, he tolerated that, then he ran them both off when the time was ripe. :D
(https://i.imgur.com/faXrcaC.jpg)
And on that same chip, this shot came up. You were talking earlier about the difficulty of ID'ing sometimes. Well, have a go at this one. My guess is that due to the mosaic pattern of the back feathers, it is a sort of owl, but I can't tell what, nor for that matter, what he is doing. :D
(https://i.imgur.com/66DSfUr.jpg)
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This little one was a successful rescue attempt from the past summer. I heard her calling for her mother one day in my backyard, so I kept an eye out for her all afternoon. When it started to get dark and she was still in the same spot, I knew she wouldn't escape the nighttime predators. I took her in and fed her using an eyedropper and a pair of stamp tongs, going to bed hoping she'd survive the night. The next morning, she was still calling away, so I put her back where I found her where (hopefully) she had a family reunion. It's hard to identify a bird so small, but my guess was she was a baby robin.
Quote from: Gurn Blanston on February 17, 2021, 05:34:51 PM
No, he would sooner we never showed up, I believe. :)
eBird, eh? Well knowing even that name should enable me to find it. But any further info would be cool.
Here is another shot of that lad, you can see he is ready for the lady of his dreams to arrive at his pond. FYI, she did, they had a baby, he tolerated that, then he ran them both off when the time was ripe. :D
(https://i.imgur.com/faXrcaC.jpg)
And on that same chip, this shot came up. You were talking earlier about the difficulty of ID'ing sometimes. Well, have a go at this one. My guess is that due to the mosaic pattern of the back feathers, it is a sort of owl, but I can't tell what, nor for that matter, what he is doing. :D
(https://i.imgur.com/66DSfUr.jpg)
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Gurn,
I don't know, the head/neck is too blurry to be able (for me anyway) to try and figure it out. I do think though that it's most likely tearing up and eating something that it caught.
Quote from: Szykneij on February 18, 2021, 03:45:28 AM
This little one was a successful rescue attempt from the past summer. I heard her calling for her mother one day in my backyard, so I kept an eye out for her all afternoon. When it started to get dark and she was still in the same spot, I knew she wouldn't escape the nighttime predators. I took her in and fed her using an eyedropper and a pair of stamp tongs, going to bed hoping she'd survive the night. The next morning, she was still calling away, so I put her back where I found her where (hopefully) she had a family reunion. It's hard to identify a bird so small, but my guess was she was a baby robin.
That was very kind of you to try and help, but I suspect that the little one probably didn't make it. My guess is that it either fell out of its nest or the nest was knocked out of the tree or wherever it was built. I did find this online which might be of help to you if this ever happens again: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YfOYI0AXFvU
You might also want to check out this website for help (and jot down the link somewhere if you need to find it again): https://www.mass.gov/service-details/find-a-wildlife-rehabilitator
Best wishes,
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on February 18, 2021, 06:08:46 AM
Gurn,
I don't know, the head/neck is too blurry to be able (for me anyway) to try and figure it out. I do think though that it's most likely tearing up and eating something that it caught.
Yes, I was able to zoom in pretty closely, it's a rodent of some sort, possibly a wood rat. That's the belly facing us. Pretty sure it's an owl though, probably stopping for a snack on the way home for the day! :)
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Quote from: Gurn Blanston on February 18, 2021, 06:50:27 AM
Yes, I was able to zoom in pretty closely, it's a rodent of some sort, possibly a wood rat. That's the belly facing us. Pretty sure it's an owl though, probably stopping for a snack on the way home for the day! :)
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When I was visiting my parents at Thanksgiving in a local park I saw a rodent of unusual size... I was actually shocked by how big and how fast it was. It is called a Nutria.
Quote from: DavidW on February 18, 2021, 07:02:37 AM
When I was visiting my parents at Thanksgiving in a local park I saw a rodent of unusual size... I was actually shocked by how big and how fast it was. It is called a Nutria.
Yeah, nutrias are a South American invasive species that was brought here to raise for fur, but they escaped into the wild (from Louisiana, I think) and have spread all over the South. They do a lot of damage burrowing along creek and pond banks. I would help the owl catch them if I needed to. :D They are about the size of a big opossum, so yeah, I can see being impressed!!
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https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-56189600
Rare bird: 'Half-male, half-female' cardinal snapped in Pennsylvania
(https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/news/976/cpsprodpb/1708F/production/_117215349_cardinal5.jpg)
Quote from: T. D. on February 24, 2021, 05:30:16 PM
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-56189600
Rare bird: 'Half-male, half-female' cardinal snapped in Pennsylvania
(https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/news/976/cpsprodpb/1708F/production/_117215349_cardinal5.jpg)
Cool! About 10-15 years ago, we had an albino Cardinal living in the area. I saw him 3-4 times, he was very impressive looking. Never saw anything like that though! :o
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Interesting! I had never heard of that before in birds.
Gurn,
Cornell has a Feeder Watch Program, but it sounds like this would be a different kind of program than what you are looking for? https://feederwatch.org
Here's a link to ebird: https://ebird.org/home
By the way, my friend is no longer feeding the birds due to too many rodents alas.
You might also want to visit the Texas Audubon Society. They also talk about eBird there. Reminds me that I want to visit more of my local Audubon sites. Had a fun time last winter going for a hike with a friend around one. We had an unusually warm day. The area was still covered with some snow and ice (forest type of area); he brought some hiking poles which came in handy in some areas that were slippery. Quite pretty there and we were by ourselves for 99.99% of the time too! :)
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on February 25, 2021, 05:10:18 AM
Interesting! I had never heard of that before in birds.
Gurn,
Cornell has a Feeder Watch Program, but it sounds like this would be a different kind of program than what you are looking for? https://feederwatch.org
Here's a link to ebird: https://ebird.org/home
By the way, my friend is no longer feeding the birds due to too many rodents alas.
You might also want to visit the Texas Audubon Society. They also talk about eBird there. Reminds me that I want to visit more of my local Audubon sites. Had a fun time last winter going for a hike with a friend around one. We had an unusually warm day. The area was still covered with some snow and ice (forest type of area); he brought some hiking poles which came in handy in some areas that were slippery. Quite pretty there and we were by ourselves for 99.99% of the time too! :)
PD,
I downloaded eBird the day we talked about it, and looked through all the info on their website. I haven't had time to get any data entered yet, been busy with the aftermath of the blizzard. By bad luck, at the same time, I discovered that the National Bird Count took place 3 days earlier! We are members of the National Audubon Society, but I never thought about the state one. Good idea, I'll look into that.
Hiking around a wilderness area is a great thing to do. In truth, for me it means walking up to the pond. 🤠. I rarely have a regret over the years of effort spent acquiring this place, if I was a really serious birder, rather than a casual observer, I would be in Hog Heaven! 😃
😎
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on February 25, 2021, 05:10:18 AM
By the way, my friend is no longer feeding the birds due to too many rodents alas.
That's a concern, especially these days. With fewer restaurants operating, the rodents don't have as many discarded food sources to go to. I've moved all my feeders far from the house for that reason.
We now also have a visiting coyote, which I just recently learned will eat bird seed. The fact coyotes feast on rodents I guess is a plus, but it doesn't outweigh my concern for our cats and dogs.
Quote from: Szykneij on February 25, 2021, 07:45:52 AM
That's a concern, especially these days. With fewer restaurants operating, the rodents don't have as many discarded food sources to go to. I've moved all my feeders far from the house for that reason.
We now also have a visiting coyote, which I just recently learned will eat bird seed. The fact coyotes feast on rodents I guess is a plus, but it doesn't outweigh my concern for our cats and dogs.
Coyotes eating bird seed?! Who woulda thunk it? ??? Good for a shiny coat I guess!
Irons,
Have you tried using the dried meal worms yet? I did a quick bit of googling. I guess that part of the trick is in getting the birds to notice it and also give it a go. One person even recommended soaking some of them to make them more appealing. Or that one could mix it in with other bird food? What has been your experience? Note: the prices that I saw seemed pretty high, but as I haven't bought bird seed before, I don't know how much that can go per pound.
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on February 26, 2021, 09:18:36 AM
Coyotes eating bird seed?! Who woulda thunk it? ??? Good for a shiny coat I guess!
Irons,
Have you tried using the dried meal worms yet? I did a quick bit of googling. I guess that part of the trick is in getting the birds to notice it and also give it a go. One person even recommended soaking some of them to make them more appealing. Or that one could mix it in with other bird food? What has been your experience? Note: the prices that I saw seemed pretty high, but as I haven't bought bird seed before, I don't know how much that can go per pound.
PD
I feed the birds here with dried mealworms - I don't usually rehydrate them and they still get eaten gleefully! They work out about £10\kg (roughly the same price in USD I guess). They weigh next to nothing so it's pretty good value but bird seed, a high quality one with sunflower seeds etc, is only £2/kg.
I guess I'm just a sucker for the birds - I have no kids so I just spoil the local wildlife rotten. 0:)
Quote from: Benji on February 26, 2021, 02:46:20 PM
I feed the birds here with dried mealworms - I don't usually rehydrate them and they still get eaten gleefully! They work out about £10\kg (roughly the same price in USD I guess). They weigh next to nothing so it's pretty good value but bird seed, a high quality one with sunflower seeds etc, is only £2/kg.
I guess I'm just a sucker for the birds - I have no kids so I just spoil the local wildlife rotten. 0:)
Lucky birds! :)
PD
Note - I just found this about meal worms. Seems that you could be feeding other animals too--including some that you would rather not:
"As is common in the natural food chain, mealworms have natural enemies. These enemies of the mealworm include mice, rats, cockroaches, frogs, spiders, and snakes. Mealworms are excelant fishing bait and food for captive reptiles, chickens, fish, and birds." From this website: https://opticbird.com/what-birds-eat-mealworms/
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on February 26, 2021, 09:18:36 AM
Coyotes eating bird seed?! Who woulda thunk it? ??? Good for a shiny coat I guess!
Irons,
Have you tried using the dried meal worms yet? I did a quick bit of googling. I guess that part of the trick is in getting the birds to notice it and also give it a go. One person even recommended soaking some of them to make them more appealing. Or that one could mix it in with other bird food? What has been your experience? Note: the prices that I saw seemed pretty high, but as I haven't bought bird seed before, I don't know how much that can go per pound.
PD
I do not prepare them, PD. The birds like them straight. The only problem was Mr Magpie who managed to keep airborne in a stationary position and knock the birdfeeder with his beak to scatter the mealworms on the ground below - quite a sight! I soon put a stop to this by moving the feeder closer to the trunk of tree. Cost depends where you buy them. Mealworms are expensive in garden centres, as is everything else. We buy a large bag for little cost at a chain here in the UK, Home Bargains.
Quote from: Irons on March 01, 2021, 12:07:25 AM
I do not prepare them, PD. The birds like them straight. The only problem was Mr Magpie who managed to keep airborne in a stationary position and knock the birdfeeder with his beak to scatter the mealworms on the ground below - quite a sight! I soon put a stop to this by moving the feeder closer to the trunk of tree. Cost depends where you buy them. Mealworms are expensive in garden centres, as is everything else. We buy a large bag for little cost at a chain here in the UK, Home Bargains.
Nice! Well, at least squirrels don't seem to like them...and hedgehogs consider them to be a real treat!
PD
Quote from: Gurn Blanston on February 24, 2021, 07:32:23 PM
Cool! About 10-15 years ago, we had an albino Cardinal living in the area. I saw him 3-4 times, he was very impressive looking. Never saw anything like that though! :o
8)
I have also seen an albino cardinal - at my parents' house in upstate NY. If it were a true albino, distinct from a leucistic (pinkish) one, it wouldn't have had a long shelf (er, branch) life - melanin is required for good eyesight.
Saw my first red-tailed hawk yesterday. Most impressive.
My favorite bird is the brown thrasher. Love the feverish thrashing about, the incredibly incompetent flying - a laugh riot at times! - , and their belligerence (one of few birds that will attack humans if provoked).
Quote from: Stürmisch Bewegt on March 02, 2021, 04:59:56 AM
Saw my first red-tailed hawk yesterday. Most impressive.
My favorite bird is the brown thrasher. Love the feverish thrashing about, the incredibly incompetent flying - a laugh riot at times! - , and their belligerence (one of few birds that will attack humans if provoked).
Delighted to read that you saw a red-tailed hawk! One of my favorite birds. I often see them where I live (now that I'm looking for them). An acquaintance recently shared a photo of a leucistic RTH with me. You can see it here: https://www.flickr.com/photos/79774811@N00/50982939208/sizes/k/
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on March 02, 2021, 05:19:16 AM
Delighted to read that you saw a red-tailed hawk! One of my favorite birds. I often see them where I live (now that I'm looking for them). An acquaintance recently shared a photo of a leucistic RTH with me. You can see it here: https://www.flickr.com/photos/79774811@N00/50982939208/sizes/k/
PD
That's a very beautiful bird, for sure.
Definitely an extra suet day for the backyard visitors.
Quote from: Szykneij on March 02, 2021, 05:48:14 AM
Definitely an extra suet day for the backyard visitors.
Indeed, winter appears to not be over yet.
We got 2.1" of rain yesterday. The Mob had emptied their feeder and it was just raining too hard to go out and mess with it. I finally did in the late afternoon, and before I even got back in the house, it was overrun. In another couple of weeks, I won't be able to give away seed, but right now..!!! :o
8)
Had a special visitor at the feeder this morning:
(https://external-content.duckduckgo.com/iu/?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.allaboutbirds.org%2Fguide%2Fassets%2Fog%2F75714071-1200px.jpg&f=1&nofb=1)
We haven't had a purple finch here since 2002, even though they are said to be inhabitants of the area. I hope it sticks around for a while, and maybe brings some friends! :)
8)
Quote from: Gurn Blanston on March 06, 2021, 09:10:41 AM
Had a special visitor at the feeder this morning:
We haven't had a purple finch here since 2002, even though they are said to be inhabitants of the area. I hope it sticks around for a while, and maybe brings some friends! :)
8)
It's hard to differentiate between purple finches and house finches, but I'm pretty sure the flocks that visit my feeders are house finches. They're the most common birds at my thistle feeders, followed by goldfinches and chickadees.
Quote from: Szykneij on March 06, 2021, 10:01:52 AM
It's hard to differentiate between purple finches and house finches, but I'm pretty sure the flocks that visit my feeders are house finches. They're the most common birds at my thistle feeders, followed by goldfinches and chickadees.
Not so hard when you see them together. Actually, they look more like cardinals from some angles, like head-on from the front. My wife was looking at it when I came in, and she said it was some weird-looking cardinal. The it turned sideways and it was more obvious! :D
All of our goldfinches have flown north for the summer. We had a potful of them until ~2 weeks ago, the males were just starting to color up. Then one day they were completely gone. :(
8)
Quote from: Gurn Blanston on March 06, 2021, 09:10:41 AM
Had a special visitor at the feeder this morning:
(https://external-content.duckduckgo.com/iu/?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.allaboutbirds.org%2Fguide%2Fassets%2Fog%2F75714071-1200px.jpg&f=1&nofb=1)
We haven't had a purple finch here since 2002, even though they are said to be inhabitants of the area. I hope it sticks around for a while, and maybe brings some friends! :)
8)
Oh sweet! :) My neighbor said that she has seen purple finches at her feeders, but I haven't seen them. I went for a walk with a friend today, and we saw three red-tailed hawks (or has he says, could be the same hawk three times, but I don't think so! ;D ). Funnily enough, I went inside after some errands together to get some soup for him to take home. I happened to see a RTH fly over or around my house (was working at the sink and happened to catch it for several seconds flying low). I quickly went outside to see if I could still see it (delayed a bit as I was in the middle of washing my hands) and couldn't find it again. Then when I went outside to give him some food to take home with him, he mentioned that I had just missed seeing one fly by; I explained to him what had happened. Cool that we both were able to see it! 8) :) And a lovely walk by a local river today too...good for the body, mind and soul....particularly these days.
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on March 06, 2021, 01:53:22 PM
Oh sweet! :) My neighbor said that she has seen purple finches at her feeders, but I haven't seen them. I went for a walk with a friend today, and we saw three red-tailed hawks (or has he says, could be the same hawk three times, but I don't think so! ;D ). Funnily enough, I went inside after some errands together to get some soup for him to take home. I happened to see a RTH fly over or around my house (was working at the sink and happened to catch it for several seconds flying low). I quickly went outside to see if I could still see it (delayed a bit as I was in the middle of washing my hands) and couldn't find it again. Then when I went outside to give him some food to take home with him, he mentioned that I had just missed seeing one fly by; I explained to him what had happened. Cool that we both were able to see it! 8) :) And a lovely walk by a local river today too...good for the body, mind and soul....particularly these days.
PD
Nice! I was just out in the yard hitting golf balls (well, to be fair, the 'yard' is ~5 acres), and a pair of RTH's that seem to be nesting in the pine forest adjacent came flying out and yelling at me, that neat shriek they make. They circled around for a while, seemingly mocking my efforts to hit one solidly, then back into the woods. I need to find their nest without disturbing them. :)
8)
Quote from: Gurn Blanston on March 06, 2021, 02:17:59 PM
Nice! I was just out in the yard hitting golf balls (well, to be fair, the 'yard' is ~5 acres), and a pair of RTH's that seem to be nesting in the pine forest adjacent came flying out and yelling at me, that neat shriek they make. They circled around for a while, seemingly mocking my efforts to hit one solidly, then back into the woods. I need to find their nest without disturbing them. :)
8)
Hi Gurn.
You mean their war cry? :) Click on the top one of the calls buttons here: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Red-tailed_Hawk/sounds It sounds like they were concerned about the 'activity' going on around them and felt threatened by an intruder (alas, you). Hopefully, you weren't inadvertently hitting your golf balls towards were they were nesting? Remember (or if you didn't already know this), RTH's can see 8X better at a distance than we mere mortals. This is due to the many photoreceptors in their retina: up to 1,000,000 per square mm for hawks vs. only 200,000 for humans. A normal human has 20/20 vision (when standing 20 feet away from something, you see it as if you're standing 20 feet away). Hawks have 20/2 vision. They see something 20 feet away as if they were seeing it 2 feet away.
So, I suspect (just my thoughts here) that this also translates into what can be perceived as a 'nearby threat' gets a different meaning to them. Plus, if they are in the midst of laying eggs (or already have), they are going to be hyper-vigilant of protecting their nest (= the nursery).
Fun fact: they can also see UV light. :)
Best wishes (and good luck with your golf),
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on March 07, 2021, 04:50:58 AM
Hi Gurn.
You mean their war cry? :) Click on the top one of the calls buttons here: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Red-tailed_Hawk/sounds It sounds like they were concerned about the 'activity' going on around them and felt threatened by an intruder (alas, you). Hopefully, you weren't inadvertently hitting your golf balls towards were they were nesting? Remember (or if you didn't already know this), RTH's can see 8X better at a distance than we mere mortals. This is due to the many photoreceptors in their retina: up to 1,000,000 per square mm for hawks vs. only 200,000 for humans. A normal human has 20/20 vision (when standing 20 feet away from something, you see it as if you're standing 20 feet away). Hawks have 20/2 vision. They see something 20 feet away as if they were seeing it 2 feet away.
So, I suspect (just my thoughts here) that this also translates into what can be perceived as a 'nearby threat' gets a different meaning to them. Plus, if they are in the midst of laying eggs (or already have), they are going to be hyper-vigilant of protecting their nest (= the nursery).
Fun fact: they can also see UV light. :)
Best wishes (and good luck with your golf),
PD
:) Naw, they are nesting well back in the woods. I don't doubt they were irked that I was there, but that can't be helped, it is right along the main longitudinal highway on the property, people gotta go where they gotta go.
I didn't know they can see UV light, that's very interesting. I wonder what value it adds to their lifestyle. Maybe it makes prey animals glow a bit... ???
My golf is beyond help, I'm afraid. I used to play regularly and achieved the status of not embarrassing myself in front of strangers, but now I rarely get the opportunity to play, and I actually embarrass myself in front of myself... :D
8)
PS - The Purple Finch was back this morning, that was nice to see. :)
Quote from: Gurn Blanston on March 07, 2021, 08:47:44 AM
:) Naw, they are nesting well back in the woods. I don't doubt they were irked that I was there, but that can't be helped, it is right along the main longitudinal highway on the property, people gotta go where they gotta go.
I didn't know they can see UV light, that's very interesting. I wonder what value it adds to their lifestyle. Maybe it makes prey animals glow a bit... ???
My golf is beyond help, I'm afraid. I used to play regularly and achieved the status of not embarrassing myself in front of strangers, but now I rarely get the opportunity to play, and I actually embarrass myself in front of myself... :D
8)
PS - The Purple Finch was back this morning, that was nice to see. :)
Glad that your finch came back. :) Trying to remember what all I read. It was through a link on a Cornell site. When/if I find it again, I'll let you know.
Speaking of RTHs, I heard some war crying whilst in my living room! Went outside, but couldn't see the birds. Wonder whether or not there was a territorial dispute? Or if a hawk was tired of being picked on by a murder of crows? Or....?? Have you heard/read any reports of any RTHs laying eggs in your area yet? I've been following the activity of the pair at Cornell (female = Big Red and is I want to say, now about 15 years old?; male = Arthur and I think about 4 years old. Big Red had a mate for many years named Ezra who, alas, passed away. Big Red then met Arthur.). Several weeks ago, they started making trips to their nest often bring fresh twigs and bark to spiff up things. This past week or so, they've been increasingly busy mating. I suspect that the first egg will be laid within the next couple of weeks? Cornell has two web cams in the nest. Fun to see what happens in there and watching the little ones hatch and grow up. You might get a kick out of watching this short video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c3BunMXFNTg
By the way, the lighter colored one (in the foreground) is Arthur. Big Red is in the distance (She's also the only one banded.).
Question: how do you manage to find all of your golf balls in such a big area?!
PD
Pleased to report that I saw *two hawks go to the nest nearby today. One of them actually went into it too. Hope that there will soon be some eggs laid there. :)
I suspect that it's the same pair that nested there last year though I've never been able to see them well enough to get a sense of their coloring/markings.
I'm on the Cornell Labs Feederwatch list and just got this message. It's not too late to participate. I did last year and enjoyed it, but decided to skip it this time around. Hopefully, the links from the email will work.
Hi Tony,
We've extended the season!
We have some exciting news for all FeederWatch participants: we've extended the counting season through the end of April! Normally FeederWatch ends in early April, but we learned after last year's extension that many people enjoyed counting during the arrival of spring. Please enjoy these few extra weeks of FeederWatch. The last day to start a two-day count will be Thursday, April 29. Remember, you can count on a schedule of your choosing, so if you don't want to count in April that is okay too. Any counts you have made this season are valuable, even if you only counted once.
Things to keep in mind
With this extension into the spring season, you may see colorful birds like orioles, grosbeaks and buntings at your feeders—species that overwinter to the south of most FeederWatch locations. Note that you may be asked to confirm sightings of some of these summertime species because we are still refining our data checking system for April. We appreciate your patience with that. Additionally, springtime weather means bear activity may increase. If there are active bears in your area, please remove feeders for safety, and just count birds attracted to water features or plantings that you maintain within your count site. Finally, if you live in an area where there is currently a Salmonella outbreak, please be sure to follow guidance from local wildlife authorities. If they recommend keeping your feeders down for an extended period of time, you can simply count birds attracted to other features within your count site.
Thank you for FeederWatching!
Emma Greig
Project FeederWatch
Have questions about FeederWatch?
https://feederwatch.org/ (https://feederwatch.org/)
I seems the pandemic has made birds more musical.
https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/technology/the-pandemic-is-making-birds-more-musical/ar-BB1eyk8E?ocid=msedgdhp (https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/technology/the-pandemic-is-making-birds-more-musical/ar-BB1eyk8E?ocid=msedgdhp)
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on March 07, 2021, 10:31:41 AM
Glad that your finch came back. :) Trying to remember what all I read. It was through a link on a Cornell site. When/if I find it again, I'll let you know.
Speaking of RTHs, I heard some war crying whilst in my living room! Went outside, but couldn't see the birds. Wonder whether or not there was a territorial dispute? Or if a hawk was tired of being picked on by a murder of crows? Or....?? Have you heard/read any reports of any RTHs laying eggs in your area yet? I've been following the activity of the pair at Cornell (female = Big Red and is I want to say, now about 15 years old?; male = Arthur and I think about 4 years old. Big Red had a mate for many years named Ezra who, alas, passed away. Big Red then met Arthur.). Several weeks ago, they started making trips to their nest often bring fresh twigs and bark to spiff up things. This past week or so, they've been increasingly busy mating. I suspect that the first egg will be laid within the next couple of weeks? Cornell has two web cams in the nest. Fun to see what happens in there and watching the little ones hatch and grow up. You might get a kick out of watching this short video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c3BunMXFNTg
By the way, the lighter colored one (in the foreground) is Arthur. Big Red is in the distance (She's also the only one banded.).
Question: how do you manage to find all of your golf balls in such a big area?!
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on March 08, 2021, 09:01:10 AM
Pleased to report that I saw *two hawks go to the nest nearby today. One of them actually went into it too. Hope that there will soon be some eggs laid there. :)
I suspect that it's the same pair that nested there last year though I've never been able to see them well enough to get a sense of their coloring/markings.
No, I haven't heard anything, but I am fairly sure the pair in the woods/field are working at it. I was seeing them together quite often, but now they are almost always separate. I reckon they take turns staying home. We have lots of crows here, I imagine that's not an unusual thing. But I have frequently seen them ganging up on hawks, and one morning they had a big GH Owl penned up in a tree near the driveway, I ended up late for work so I could watch him try to extract himself from his predicament. Not sure why they don't just bull their way out, but they seem to want to tiptoe out the side door, which is difficult with 20 crows on the lookout! :D
Great! Nice opportunity for nest-watching. I agree, I would be almost positive that it is the same pair as previous. Mine don't seem ever to leave, they are here year 'round, only their behavior seems to change. :)
8)
PS - Golf balls. I keep that field mowed as though it was my lawn. I hate walking in deep grass, get covered up in redbug bites, and not to put tooo fine a point on it, this IS snake country! :o
Went out for a couple of really nice walks yesterday. Saw my local hawk couple several times including one that was at quite close range twice (or two once?). I really must start bringing my camera with me (versus phone). Had some beautiful views of them flying next to or over a river, one of them hanging out on top of a lamppost....another time, one of them sitting calmly on a big and 'fluffy' pine tree branch. :)
As I was leaving that area, I happened to notice a big shadow move over me. I looked upwards in the direction that the shadow had moved expecting to see a red-tailed hawk; instead, I saw a bigger bird with dark wings but it had a white head and tail. It was a bald eagle! It circled over me and nearby a few times eventually disappearing into the sunlight. ;D Made my day!
PD
PD, I had a similar experience out mowing my lawn several years ago, when a large shadow passed over me. I thought it might be the grim reaper at first and looked up to greet him but it was a bald eagle - couldn't help but wonder if mine might have momentarily considered if I might be edible, as it then circled a bit... I've always been impressed with their high flying ways: up to 10,000 feet. But that's nuthin' compared to Ruppell's griffon vulture (endangered) which has been spotted flying at 37,000 feet (the same height as a coasting commercial airplane).
I love birds, some birds more than others, admittedly, but I really do not want any of them nesting up in the eaves of our house, which they have taken to doing more so in recent years. I have had real success in encouraging them to find alternative lodgings by placing esp. fragrant soaps at their favorite spots, Irish Spring works well. This is the first spring I've encountered where something has been kicking the soaps outta there and I have had to replace several times.
Quote from: Stürmisch Bewegt on March 16, 2021, 04:42:10 AM
PD, I had a similar experience out mowing my lawn several years ago, when a large shadow passed over me. I thought it might be the grim reaper at first and looked up to greet him but it was a bald eagle - couldn't help but wonder if mine might have momentarily considered if I might be edible, as it then circled a bit... I've always been impressed with their high flying ways: up to 10,000 feet. But that's nuthin' compared to Ruppell's griffon vulture (endangered) which has been spotted flying at 37,000 feet (the same height as a coasting commercial airplane).
I also considered (and joked to someone later) that he/she might be thinking "Meal?". I had joked that they were thinking "Hmm....lots of good meat there, but nah, too much trouble".
Wow, didn't know about a bald eagle's flying capabilities let alone a Ruppell's griffon vulture [Hadn't heard of a RGV before now either]! ???
In any event, it was quite special to see a BE and so close. The only either time that I had seen one (a pair) they were really high up in a pine tree (and looked about an inch big--no binocs then alas).
And glad that you didn't have a heart attack seeing the bald eagle--you wouldn't want to have seen them both on the same day. ;)
PD
Quote from: Stürmisch Bewegt on March 16, 2021, 04:50:28 AM
I love birds, some birds more than others, admittedly, but I really do not want any of them nesting up in the eaves of our house, which they have taken to doing more so in recent years. I have had real success in encouraging them to find alternative lodgings by placing esp. fragrant soaps at their favorite spots, Irish Spring works well. This is the first spring I've encountered where something has been kicking the soaps outta there and I have had to replace several times.
Wonder whether or not the "kicker" might in fact be a squirrel?
PD
Just read this sad story on the BBC's website: "A rare songbird has become so threatened that it has started to lose its song, say scientists."
https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-56417544
PD
We vacation in the summer on a protected marsh in Maine. The arrival of a visiting bald eagle is always announced by a din of irate seagulls attempting to drive the eagle away to protect their nests located in the seagrass. These efforts are completely futile, and the eagle usually manages to get its meal.
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on March 17, 2021, 03:59:27 AM
Just read this sad story on the BBC's website: "A rare songbird has become so threatened that it has started to lose its song, say scientists."
https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-56417544
PD
Definitely sad. It's interesting how birds actually learn their songs.
Every spring, while I'm working in my garden, I'm visited by a songbird I have yet to identify. I call him the Beethoven Bird because his call is the first four notes of Beethoven's 5th. I usually answer his major third by whistling the subsequent minor third, hoping that by the end of the summer we can move on to the next phrase. :)
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on March 17, 2021, 03:26:25 AM
Wonder whether or not the "kicker" might in fact be a squirrel?
PD
That thought crossed my mind as well,
PD, but though I've seen plenty of squirrel up on the roof, have never seen them where the birds feel compelled to nest. Possible, but unlikely, methinks. A little tricky for them to negotiate those spots. Might be doves, I hear them around there a lot, though they don't nest there. Speaking of squirrels on the roof: years ago, I chased a baby squirrel about the backyard. It quickly ran up a maple tree but in its fright went too far out on a spindly branch and was bending it up and down some eight or nine feet off the ground. Afraid to jump and not being able to turn around and go back, it let out a plaintive cry and his parents
zoomed (no exaggeration) across the roof (they must have been in the front yard). One of them scurried up the maple out to the youngster and on the downward lunge gently pushed him off onto the ground and they both ran like the devil away from Mr. Stranger Danger. Whenever I hear people talk about animals being mindless mechanisms - many do - I think of that occurrence and know otherwise.
Quote from: Szykneij on March 17, 2021, 04:08:48 AM
Definitely sad. It's interesting how birds actually learn their songs.
Every spring, while I'm working in my garden, I'm visited by a songbird I have yet to identify. I call him the Beethoven Bird because his call is the first four notes of Beethoven's 5th. I usually answer his major third by whistling the subsequent minor third, hoping that by the end of the summer we can move on to the next phrase. :)
:laugh: What are the three main colors? How long is their tail in relationship to their body? How would you describe what they look like? Any particular markings?
Have you tried taking a picture of them with your cell phone and using the Merlin app?
PD
Quote from: Stürmisch Bewegt on March 18, 2021, 03:48:52 PM
That thought crossed my mind as well, PD, but though I've seen plenty of squirrel up on the roof, have never seen them where the birds feel compelled to nest. Possible, but unlikely, methinks. A little tricky for them to negotiate those spots. Might be doves, I hear them around there a lot, though they don't nest there. Speaking of squirrels on the roof: years ago, I chased a baby squirrel about the backyard. It quickly ran up a maple tree but in its fright went too far out on a spindly branch and was bending it up and down some eight or nine feet off the ground. Afraid to jump and not being able to turn around and go back, it let out a plaintive cry and his parents zoomed (no exaggeration) across the roof (they must have been in the front yard). One of them scurried up the maple out to the youngster and on the downward lunge gently pushed him off onto the ground and they both ran like the devil away from Mr. Stranger Danger. Whenever I hear people talk about animals being mindless mechanisms - many do - I think of that occurrence and know otherwise.
Oh, no! May I ask why you were chasing it? Way to go parent squirrels!
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on March 20, 2021, 09:17:53 AM
:laugh: What are the three main colors? How long is their tail in relationship to their body? How would you describe what they look like? Any particular markings?
Have you tried taking a picture of them with your cell phone and using the Merlin app?
PD
The problem is that when it's singing, it's way up in the trees out of sight. I'm guessing it's one of the song sparrows that come down to feed on insects, but until I actually see it in song, I don't know for sure. I've listened to the calls all of the possibilities on line, but I can't find anything that matches.
Quote from: Szykneij on March 20, 2021, 09:27:48 AM
The problem is that when it's singing, it's way up in the trees out of sight. I'm guessing it's one of the song sparrows that come down to feed on insects, but until I actually see it in song, I don't know for sure. I've listened to the calls all of the possibilities on line, but I can't find anything that matches.
Drat! Elusive little birdie for sure! ;)
Just back from a nice long walk by a river. First thing off, saw a red-tailed hawk in flight..happily sailing along on the drafts on a sunny day. :) A bit later, spotted two turkey vultures flying way high up. Saw another group (or same) but three this time, much closer to the ground. Beautiful day to be outside. Checked my local neighborhood on return and heard and saw what I believe to be a hairy woodpecker back on its same tree still digging out its nest. I hadn't seen it for a while and was hoping that it hadn't been frightened away by either myself sharing with neighbors about the nest and yakking too loudly and disturbing it or by someone or something else. :( All seems to be good now though thankfully.
PD
Quote from: Gurn Blanston on March 06, 2021, 11:53:29 AM
Not so hard when you see them together. Actually, they look more like cardinals from some angles, like head-on from the front. My wife was looking at it when I came in, and she said it was some weird-looking cardinal. The it turned sideways and it was more obvious! :D
Gurn, what do you think? Purple finches or house finches? I'm going with house.
Tony,
It looks like a house finch to me. On the Cornell website, you can compare different birds side by side to compare what they look like (really handy). See here: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Purple_Finch/species-compare/63736771
PD
p.s. Read somewhere that the house finches are basically driving out the purple finches. :-(
Picture from last year later in the season. Brighter plumage.
Quote from: Szykneij on March 26, 2021, 04:49:45 AM
Picture from last year later in the season. Brighter plumage.
Neat!
Keep checking in on Big Red and Arthur (RTHs at Cornell)...BR is certainly taking her time this year in laying her first egg. Historically (info on their website), the latest date recorded of her laying her first egg was on March 28th. Today's the 26th and it's very windy on the campus today and is forecast for continued strong winds today. Hope that she can hang in there for another day before laying it!
PD
And Big Red has laid her third egg this morning in Ithaca, NY. True to form, she laid it in horrible weather (It snowed overnight)...mid-morning today local time. No April Fools Day joke. :) What a trooper!
PD
Bird Photographer of the Year 2021 finalists. Some absolutely stunning photos plus the stories of how they were taken. :)
https://www.bbc.com/news/in-pictures-56654460
PD
Some very fine photos there, thank you. The one with that little yellow duck is very cinematic :)
Quote from: MusicTurner on April 09, 2021, 04:35:18 AM
Some very fine photos there, thank you. The one with that little yellow duck is very cinematic :)
I wonder who won the battle in the fox vs. the sea eagle?
The one of the shag bird chick forcing its head down its parent's throat cracked me up and I would imagine might have been a bit alarming to the mom!
And, yes, it must have been amusing to see the little duckling following the fly around determined to get it! :)
I particularly also loved the photo of the mute swans courting too.
PD
Went for a combo of a walk/birding over the weekend. Saw my first red-bellied woodpecker along with a number of either hairy and/or downys. :) Glad that my friend brought his binoculars; mine aren't nearly as good!
https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Red-bellied_Woodpecker
PD
Hard not to be checking in on the bird nest cams this time of year. Fun to see the eggs hatch and the little ones being fed. Though I must admit, hard to watch the osprey cams. Those chicks can be quite nasty 'bopping' on their siblings--sometimes leading to their death. :(
Love looking at the barred owl chicks with their cute little flat faces. ;D https://www.allaboutbirds.org/cams/barred-owls/
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on April 23, 2021, 08:29:02 AM
Hard not to be checking in on the bird nest cams this time of year. Fun to see the eggs hatch and the little ones being fed. Though I must admit, hard to watch the osprey cams. Those chicks can be quite nasty 'bopping' on their siblings--sometimes leading to their death. :(
Love looking at the barred owl chicks with their cute little flat faces. ;D https://www.allaboutbirds.org/cams/barred-owls/
PD
It's a great website. Thanks for the discovery !
From Europe, I already used to watch these webcams every day: https://www.birdfood.co.uk/webcams (https://www.birdfood.co.uk/webcams)
...
For me, the hardest thing to see is when raptors prey on the nests of smaller birds ... That's really terrible :(
Quote from: mabuse on April 23, 2021, 12:32:37 PM
It's a great website. Thanks for the discovery !
From Europe, I already used to watch these webcams every day: https://www.birdfood.co.uk/webcams (https://www.birdfood.co.uk/webcams)
...
For me, the hardest thing to see is when raptors prey on the nests of smaller birds ... That's really terrible :(
Oh, good! I'm glad that you are enjoying it. Someone told me about an app that Cornell created for smart phones which I downloaded (It's free by the way). It's called Merlin and I really like it! It helps me to identify birds and to learn more about them. They have ID packages for much of the world. Here's a link to it: https://merlin.allaboutbirds.org/download/
Thank you for your link. I'll happily explore the nest cams a bit later today. :) And, yes, it's hard to see birds go after and destroy other birds' eggs (or even take their chicks for food!). Mother Nature doesn't follow Disney guidelines that's for sure!
PD
:)
On the same website, there is also currently a webcam into the nest of a little 'great tit' :
https://www.fr.vivara.be/webcams-en-direct/mesange-charbonniere (https://www.fr.vivara.be/webcams-en-direct/mesange-charbonniere)
It is particularly charming...
Nesting, here, is much faster than with large birds.
(https://i79.servimg.com/u/f79/19/91/80/91/great-10.jpg)
Quote from: mabuse on April 25, 2021, 04:08:52 PM
:)
On the same website, there is also currently a webcam into the nest of a little 'great tit' :
https://www.fr.vivara.be/webcams-en-direct/mesange-charbonniere (https://www.fr.vivara.be/webcams-en-direct/mesange-charbonniere)
It is particularly charming...
Nesting, here, is much faster than with large birds.
(https://i79.servimg.com/u/f79/19/91/80/91/great-10.jpg)
Sweet! :)
PD
Fascinating story about a red-tailed hawk chick being raised by eagles (in western Canada):
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/bald-eagles-raise-red-tailed-hawk-1.4151033
As an aside, I've also been following a hawk cam at Syracuse University. One of the three eggs started to hatch this morning! At around 4 something. Surprised to see at one point that Sue (the female hawk parent) actually ate a tiny bit of the shell (where it had been pipped) and then gently picked it up and set it back down (using the hole to pick it up). Hadn't seen anything like that before. Otto is the name of the male hawk.
The cameras were set up due to a kind donation of a lovely woman when her husband passed away 16 days after being diagnosed with leukemia. They were/are both avid birders. You can view the cams here: https://thecollege.syr.edu/alumni/nest-cam/
She (Anne Marie Higgins) has a Facebook page in which she provides updates. :) https://www.facebook.com/pg/redtailedhawktales/about/?ref=page_internal
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on April 27, 2021, 08:42:44 AM
Fascinating story about a red-tailed hawk chick being raised by eagles (in western Canada):
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/bald-eagles-raise-red-tailed-hawk-1.4151033
That is a very impressive document :o
The maternal instincts of some animals can really be very strong...
In the news or on the Internet, we often find testimonials about this kind of interspecies relationship :
https://www.livescience.com/59097-interspecies-animal-moms-photos.html
https://www.straight.com/blogra/708856/when-animals-dont-attack-adopt-unexpected-interspecies-parenting
(I enjoyed the story of the male sheep adopting the baby elephant who lost his mother :laugh: : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tnXYiSY99yw )
Quote from: mabuse on April 27, 2021, 03:34:41 PM
That is a very impressive document :o
The maternal instincts of some animals can really be very strong...
In the news or on the Internet, we often find testimonials about this kind of interspecies relationship :
https://www.livescience.com/59097-interspecies-animal-moms-photos.html
https://www.straight.com/blogra/708856/when-animals-dont-attack-adopt-unexpected-interspecies-parenting
(I enjoyed the story of the male sheep adopting the baby elephant who lost his mother :laugh: : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tnXYiSY99yw )
Thanks for those links! I had seen two of them before: the one with the cat mothering the ducklings and also the one of Pippin (? that big black dog) looking after the faun. :)
By the way, the first red-tailed hawk chick pipped its way out of the shell (at Syracuse University) yesterday around 7 p.m.
PD
EDIT: Just saw three different kinds of woodpeckers (alas not live) within a period of about 5 minutes on the Cornell Feeder cam: a hairy (male), a red-bellied woodpecker (male) and the huge and striking pileated woodpecker (also a male). 8)
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on April 28, 2021, 09:23:18 AM
By the way, the first red-tailed hawk chick pipped its way out of the shell (at Syracuse University) yesterday around 7 p.m.
https://thecollege.syr.edu/alumni/nest-cam/ (https://thecollege.syr.edu/alumni/nest-cam/)
Good !
The image is of very high quality.
(I don't wanna watch the squirrel get skinned :-[ )
Quote from: mabuse on April 28, 2021, 02:33:00 PM
https://thecollege.syr.edu/alumni/nest-cam/ (https://thecollege.syr.edu/alumni/nest-cam/)
Good !
The image is of very high quality.
(I don't wanna watch the squirrel get skinned :-[ )
Yes, these days people often volunteer to be moderators and can zoom in and out, etc. on the nest or the birds too. :)
You have to develop somewhat of a "thick skin" when watching raptors feed/hunt. It's what they do though. They have to eat too. And imagine how much more of a problem we'd have with an over-population of squirrels, chipmunks, voles, etc., if it weren't for raptors?
Best wishes,
PD
Probably I am indeed too sensitive... 0:)
But you are of course right that you should not blame them for hunting other animals !
Moreover, personally, I appreciate very much that at night the owls come around my house to hunt mice.
For that, I think they are really the best >:D
Quote from: mabuse on April 29, 2021, 05:27:51 AM
Probably I am indeed too sensitive... 0:)
But you are of course right that you should not blame them for hunting other animals !
Moreover, personally, I appreciate very much that at night the owls come around my house to hunt mice.
For that, I think they are really the best >:D
Oh, neat that you have owls in your area? What kind of owl(s) do you have that visit you? :)
PD
I do not know very well because at night it is difficult to see them...
But on the other hand, I can hear them screaming from the top of the trees.
I personally appreciate their presence very much :)
...
About the tit:
There are 6 eggs !
(https://i79.servimg.com/u/f79/19/91/80/91/captur20.png)
Quote from: mabuse on April 29, 2021, 06:11:35 AM
I do not know very well because at night it is difficult to see them...
But on the other hand, I can hear them screaming from the top of the trees.
I personally appreciate their presence very much :)
...
About the tit:
There are 6 eggs !
(https://i79.servimg.com/u/f79/19/91/80/91/captur20.png)
Eggcelent! :)
I just took a look at the Merlin app that I use and see that they have bird packs for Europe (I just typed that in their search engine). I don't know where you live, but they have one for Scandinavia, one for the Iberian peninsula, one titled Western which covers "Birds of western Europe from France to Germany and also one for Britain and Ireland. If you have a smart phone, you could download the one for your area (if you live in Europe that is)...again, they are free. They also have various recordings of common bird sounds by species. You could listen to some of the sounds that the various owls make to help you figure out who (pun intended) is making it? :) For the heck of it, I downloaded their birds of western Europe one (currently downloading it). I should also download the ones for Scandinavia and Britain and Ireland (since we have a lot of people from the UK and Ireland here. One other cool thing that you can do with it is take a photo of a bird and ID it that way...or go through a series of questions which helps the app to narrow down which bird you are likely seeing.
Hawk chick No. 2 came out of its shell yesterday at SU. One egg left to go!
No chicks yet at the Cornell nest (Big Red did lay hers later than SU's Sue though). Sometimes some of the birders who follow the Cornell hawks will drive up to Syracuse University to check out the hawks there and also to catch up with Anne Marie; it's about an hour's drive apparently.
There are also some nearby ospreys (a bit away from the hawks' nest but still on the Cornell campus). It's been fun checking in on them too. Unlike the red-tailed hawks, the ospreys migrate (and not together as a pair). Hard to tell when they return to their nest areas who is with whom. From what I understand, they're a lot more 'loosie-goosie' about finding a mate and they also will try to poach each other's nests (and sometimes mates!). The red-tailed hawks, conversely, mate for life; Big Red (the female) only took up with Arthur after her mate Ezra died. They also live on the campus year-round.
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on April 29, 2021, 06:59:01 AM
Eggcelent! :)
I just took a look at the Merlin app that I use and see that they have bird packs for Europe (I just typed that in their search engine). I don't know where you live, but they have one for Scandinavia, one for the Iberian peninsula, one titled Western which covers "Birds of western Europe from France to Germany and also one for Britain and Ireland. If you have a smart phone, you could download the one for your area (if you live in Europe that is)...again, they are free. They also have various recordings of common bird sounds by species. You could listen to some of the sounds that the various owls make to help you figure out who (pun intended) is making it? :) For the heck of it, I downloaded their birds of western Europe one (currently downloading it). I should also download the ones for Scandinavia and Britain and Ireland (since we have a lot of people from the UK and Ireland here. One other cool thing that you can do with it is take a photo of a bird and ID it that way...or go through a series of questions which helps the app to narrow down which bird you are likely seeing.
Thank you very much for the information !
Even though I am not a great smartphone user, I take good note of this "Merlin" application and will try to come to it :)
From my research, I think it's some "tawny owls" that come to visit me at night.
It is also the most common species of owl by my home in France :
(https://www.jura.ch/Htdocs/Images/Pictures/10471.jpg?puid=2aae31be-ea30-40a2-b04a-aee74646c035)
Quote from: mabuse on May 02, 2021, 08:00:33 AM
Thank you very much for the information !
Even though I am not a great smartphone user, I take good note of this "Merlin" application and will try to come to it :)
From my research, I think it's some "tawny owls" that come to visit me at night.
It is also the most common species of owl by my home in France :
(https://www.jura.ch/Htdocs/Images/Pictures/10471.jpg?puid=2aae31be-ea30-40a2-b04a-aee74646c035)
Oh neat! I did check on my app and typed in France in terms of location and one of the ones that came up was indeed a tawny owl (though they did list it as rare--at least for this time of year. I do realize, however that France is a large country with varying geography and climates.). They have a song and a call on there in terms of audio ID info. I did also see a number of uploads to youtube if this helps.
Checked in on Big Red this morning and noticed that he first egg is cracked open and she has a chick! :) Egg number 2 has a few pip holes in it too.
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on May 03, 2021, 05:09:59 AMI did also see a number of uploads to youtube if this helps.
I have used YouTube which offers a lot of choice, indeed :)
In the past, bird watchers had to look for recordings in stores with beautiful sleeves !
https://www.discogs.com/fr/search/?limit=250&q=ornithology&type=all&style_exact=Field+Recording&page=1 (https://www.discogs.com/fr/search/?limit=250&q=ornithology&type=all&style_exact=Field+Recording&page=1)
(https://img.discogs.com/VDgKOpVtZ8cbBToMJBIFMl2xHPk=/fit-in/600x594/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(90)/discogs-images/R-7359759-1439905511-6143.jpeg.jpg)
Quote from: mabuse on April 29, 2021, 06:11:35 AM
About the tit:
There are 6 eggs !
(https://i79.servimg.com/u/f79/19/91/80/91/captur20.png)
Here they are, so smalls :-*
(https://i79.servimg.com/u/f79/19/91/80/91/captur21.png)
Quote from: mabuse on May 03, 2021, 08:34:44 AM
Here they are, so smalls :-*
(https://i79.servimg.com/u/f79/19/91/80/91/captur21.png)
I just checked in on them; all six of the eggs have hatched. I suspect that they all heard mom or dad nearby as several times they stuck all of their little beaks up with mouths open! A couple of minutes later, someone flew into the nest to check on them. A shame that there isn't any audio. Actually, it's there but very faint. Or perhaps they're just trying to make it known that they are hungry?
Quote from: mabuse on May 03, 2021, 07:31:47 AM
I have used YouTube which offers a lot of choice, indeed :)
In the past, bird watchers had to look for recordings in stores with beautiful sleeves !
https://www.discogs.com/fr/search/?limit=250&q=ornithology&type=all&style_exact=Field+Recording&page=1 (https://www.discogs.com/fr/search/?limit=250&q=ornithology&type=all&style_exact=Field+Recording&page=1)
(https://img.discogs.com/VDgKOpVtZ8cbBToMJBIFMl2xHPk=/fit-in/600x594/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(90)/discogs-images/R-7359759-1439905511-6143.jpeg.jpg)
I have a friend who used to listen to cassettes in her car while on long trips. :)
PD
Some of my neighbors are bragging about having seen a spate of rose-breasted grosbeaks. I'm jealous, to be sure, but my wife and I spotted a coupla house sparrows mating in our strawberry and vanilla French hydrangeas this morning. "Are they having sex?," she asked. Yup, that's what it is alright. It's over quick and there wasn't time to get my camera. But you do get to see their trysting place (not in bloom yet, of course).
We could almost smell their scent ... ;D
...
Rose-breasted grosbeaks look great, indeed :)
(https://www.birdsandblooms.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/rosebreastedgrosbeak_kirk-hatzmann.jpg?w=1200)
Quote from: mabuse on May 05, 2021, 04:00:42 PM
We could almost smell their scent ... ;D
...
Rose-breasted grosbeaks look great, indeed :)
(https://www.birdsandblooms.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/rosebreastedgrosbeak_kirk-hatzmann.jpg?w=1200)
Beautiful! Amazing how different the female looks from the male.
Quote from: mabuse on May 05, 2021, 04:00:42 PM
We could almost smell their scent ... ;D
...
Rose-breasted grosbeaks look great, indeed :)
(https://www.birdsandblooms.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/rosebreastedgrosbeak_kirk-hatzmann.jpg?w=1200)
Thanks to you,
mabuse, I get to see two of them after all :laugh:
Across the Atlantic, the Rose-Breasted Grosbeaks reminds me of the Great Spotted Woodpecker to which I am very attached :
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/d7/Forge_pic_%C3%A9peiche.jpg/440px-Forge_pic_%C3%A9peiche.jpg)
About ten years ago a male had dug his nest into a dead tree at the bottom of my garden.
It took him 2 or 3 weeks and to see him doing it was amazing... It was a real artist at work.
(Some people tell me to clean up that rotten old tree... I never will ! )
Quote from: mabuse on May 06, 2021, 09:17:40 AM
Across the Atlantic, the Rose-Breasted Grosbeaks reminds me of the Great Spotted Woodpecker to which I am very attached :
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/d7/Forge_pic_%C3%A9peiche.jpg/440px-Forge_pic_%C3%A9peiche.jpg)
About ten years ago a male had dug his nest into a dead tree at the bottom of my garden.
It took him 2 or 3 weeks and to see him doing it was amazing... It was a real artist at work.
(Some people tell me to clean up that rotten old tree... I never will ! )
A very pretty bird! I love woodpeckers too. :) The only thing that could be of possible concern to me (if I were you): is there a goodly chance of the tree falling down and doing damage to a neighbor's house or mine? Or possibly fall into the road and hitting a car, etc.?
PD
Of course, that would be a problem in this case.
Fortunately, the tree (a cherry tree) was not that big... And it is falling apart little by little over time.
And after the woodpecker left, other small birds also enjoyed the place :)
Quote from: mabuse on May 06, 2021, 10:40:56 AM
Of course, that would be a problem in this case.
Fortunately, the tree (a cherry tree) was not that big... And it is falling apart little by little over time.
And after the woodpecker left, other small birds also enjoyed the place :)
Glad that everybody is enjoying it! :-) By the way, I like your avatar; who created it?
The person who funded the webcams at SU spoke to a bird expert about the third and unhatched hawk egg. Looking at the stats, they've concluded that the egg is unviable and won't hatch. There are, so far anyway, two healthy-looking chicks in the nest for mom and dad to look after though. :) Meanwhile Big Red and Arthur are happily looking after their own brood. Nest area is a bit gruesome looking with the bodies of all kinds of animals strewn in a circle around the nest! Every so often they do a bit of nest-cleaning (removing some of the bits). The life of a raptor. :-X
Locally, two days ago I did manage to catch a quick glimpse of one of my RTHs and heard another one chwirking away to his/her partner. Glad to know that they are o.k. Have yet to hear any of the babies. Fingers crossed for them.
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on May 08, 2021, 12:05:30 PM
By the way, I like your avatar; who created it?
These are two "Shadoks" on my avatar :)
"
Les Shadoks" was an animated series broadcast on television in France from the 60s and which has remained quite noturious.
It was told of the very crazy adventures of these particularly silly birds ...
I found an episode on YT with English subtitles that maybe can give an idea of what it is:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y91GPXsVD3c (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y91GPXsVD3c)
...
On the allaboutbirds.org website, I much appreciate to watch the Northern Royal Albatross from New Zealand :
https://www.allaboutbirds.org/cams/royal-albatross/
The panorama is magnificent !
These days, the two baby eagle owls are quite irresistible... :-*
https://www.birdfood.co.uk/webcams/eagle-owl-webcam (https://www.birdfood.co.uk/webcams/eagle-owl-webcam)
(https://i79.servimg.com/u/f79/19/91/80/91/captur22.png)
Quote from: mabuse on May 11, 2021, 07:53:35 AM
These days, the two baby eagle owls are quite irresistible... :-*
https://www.birdfood.co.uk/webcams/eagle-owl-webcam (https://www.birdfood.co.uk/webcams/eagle-owl-webcam)
(https://i79.servimg.com/u/f79/19/91/80/91/captur22.png)
Drat! Where did they go? Are they just out of view or did they fledge and aren't coming back?
And yes, the cam view in New Zealand is beautiful! Would love to visit it someday.
The two darlings are back!
Maybe they were hidden ...
Or maybe they went to the vet to be checked and banded.
...
The baby albatross doesn't seem bothered by big storms at all :o
Seeing him, I feel very comfortable at home well sheltered.
Quote from: mabuse on May 13, 2021, 10:27:47 AM
The two darlings are back!
Maybe they were hidden ...
Or maybe they went to the vet to be checked and banded.
...
The baby albatross doesn't seem bothered by big storms at all :o
Seeing him, I feel very comfortable at home well sheltered.
Oh, yeah! They're back! :) In terms of banding, at least in the US, birds aren't banded unless they are part of a study. For example the red-tailed hawk chicks of BR and Arthur will not be banded. For what its worth, also BR is the only one banded; her new mate Arthur isn't.
PD
Oh, a fun story here: https://www.bbc.com/news/av/world-australia-55836596
Hope that you enjoy it!
PD
8)
(https://www.lambiek.net/catalog/img/1029--60054-800-r5k.jpg)
Quote from: mabuse on May 15, 2021, 12:06:17 PM
8)
(https://www.lambiek.net/catalog/img/1029--60054-800-r5k.jpg)
So, "Duck" isn't the first duck to have ever surfed before? :)
PD
Surely not ! ;D
(https://i79.servimg.com/u/f79/19/91/80/91/641dc110.jpg)
Checked in on some of the birds on that Dutch site that you introduced me to Mabuse. Was able to see the arrival of either mom or dad peregrine falcon (which stayed with the two chicks for a short amount of time), the great titmouse and a couple of the owls. One thing that I wish that that website would do would be to provide some more info about the birds and the nests....like how long they've had the nests there, info about the inhabitants, etc.
PD
Indeed, it is disappointing.
On the French website, there is yet a small presentation of each bird which is well done:
https://www.fr.vivara.be/webcams-en-direct
Past years, there was also regular news that was given on Facebook to tell what was happening in each nest... But there is hardly anything this year.
...
The other day, I saw a rabbit who was strolling beside the little albatross ... A strange encounter!
Just found out about this. Hundreds of birds have died in DC area including West Virginia, Maryland and Virginia. Apparently the condition has been reported as far west as Ohio too (but is currently concentrated in the DC area).
https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/mysterious-ailment-blinding-and-killing-birds-washington-dc-area-180978002/?utm_source=smithsoniandaily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=20210616-daily-responsive&spMailingID=45156678&spUserID=NzQwNDU1NTI4MDIS1&spJobID=2024365233&spReportId=MjAyNDM2NTIzMwS2
Other bird species have since been effected by it too: https://www.npr.org/local/305/2021/06/16/1007154493/blue-jays-grackles-other-birds-dying-from-mysterious-ailment?utm_source=facebook.com&utm_term=nprnews&utm_campaign=npr&utm_medium=social
They don't know what is causing it but are currently suggesting for people who live in the effected areas to take down and disinfect their bird feeders and bird baths and not to put them up (as food is currently plentiful) again.
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on May 18, 2021, 05:25:00 AM
Checked in on some of the birds on that Dutch site that you introduced me to Mabuse. Was able to see the arrival of either mom or dad peregrine falcon (which stayed with the two chicks for a short amount of time), the great titmouse and a couple of the owls. One thing that I wish that that website would do would be to provide some more info about the birds and the nests....like how long they've had the nests there, info about the inhabitants, etc.
PD
I just found the original site that produces these webcams ... There is a lot of information by them:
https://www.vogelbescherming.nl/beleefdelente
Everything is in Dutch but with Google Translate it works quite well :)
Quote from: mabuse on June 18, 2021, 05:02:29 AM
I just found the original site that produces these webcams ... There is a lot of information by them:
https://www.vogelbescherming.nl/beleefdelente
Everything is in Dutch but with Google Translate it works quite well :)
Thanks! :)
Still waiting for the red-tailed hawks at Cornell to fledge. They're due to any minute! Been rather windy there lately; not good for a young bird trying to figure out how to fly, so best to stay tight at the nest for now.
PD
Latest: Those chicks are
still in the nest (or on the platform holding the nest) though they are going onto the "fledge ledge" more often (a small piece of flat metal that sticks out from the rest of the platform. Also, at least one of them K1 has been hopping repeatedly off and on a metal cross/support piece which is at an awkward angle (for them). They support the metal handrail on the light platform. Wonder if they might be waiting for the first day of summer (almost here!)? :-\
K1 (the first born red-tailed hawk at Cornell University in New York) did an amazing fledge from its nest today. K2 (the second born) had been experiencing health issues lately and as it wasn't healing, they decided to carefully remove the young hawk from the nest to treat it (to make a long story short....feel free to ask if you like). K3, the youngest, surprisingly wasn't upset by folks removing its sibling from the nest and is still there even though (from what I understand) it is old enough to fledge. Here's a short video of K1 fledging:
Edit: Oh wait! This is new! It's of K2 being captured to help it!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=12O5rBUpz-4
Edit: Here's a link to K1 fledging.... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=12O5rBUpz-4
PD
Well done, K1 !
...
By removing a baby from the nest, I would have been especially worried about the reaction of the parents... It is better not to be caught in the act ???
Quote from: mabuse on June 22, 2021, 03:25:21 PM
Well done, K1 !
...
By removing a baby from the nest, I would have been especially worried about the reaction of the parents... It is better not to be caught in the act ???
Yes! I believe they said that Big Red was watching from the top of a pole within eyesight of the nest? K1 was thankfully gone before they went up there and K3 didn't panic and leave (though they weren't too worried about that as he's old enough to fly now).
Looking at the video again, K3 was trying to do his best at Big Hawk stuff--war crying and opening up his wings while they were quickly but gently picking up K2 to bring her to a rehabilitation place (including putting a hood over her to help her calm down). Surprised at how quickly they were able to get her and glad that she didn't try and fight them. Must have still been rather upsetting to both K2 and K3. And wondering what all is going through the heads of BR and Arthur. I suspect that BR in particular knew that something was wrong with K2 (She has been patiently feeding her all along unlike Arthur, who as far as we can see, hasn't been feeding the chicks directly).
K1 did fly back to the nest around dinnertime yesterday and was rewarded with a prey drop from Dad.
I suspect that K3 will fledge today, but we'll see it when we see it!
Awaiting updates on K2's health and progress.
Some sad news heard over the radio yesterday: https://www.npr.org/2021/06/22/1008986922/a-single-drone-has-harmed-a-generation-of-wildlife
Some more detail here: https://www.audubon.org/news/a-drone-crash-caused-thousands-elegant-terns-abandon-their-nests
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on June 22, 2021, 01:07:11 PM
K1 (the first born red-tailed hawk at Cornell University in New York) did an amazing fledge from its nest today. K2 (the second born) had been experiencing health issues lately and as it wasn't healing, they decided to carefully remove the young hawk from the nest to treat it (to make a long story short....feel free to ask if you like). K3, the youngest, surprisingly wasn't upset by folks removing its sibling from the nest and is still there even though (from what I understand) it is old enough to fledge. Here's a short video of K1 fledging:
Edit: Oh wait! This is new! It's of K2 being captured to help it!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=12O5rBUpz-4
Edit: Here's a link to K1 fledging.... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=12O5rBUpz-4
PD
Bit like diving off the highest springboard at the local swimming pool for the first time! ???
K3 (the baby--probably a boy but can't know for certain without either doing a DNA test or seeing it laying an egg. From what I understand, however, the females are normally larger than the males--by about 30%)....well, he fledged yesterday. It was a very rough one to watch though as he ended up flying into a big brick building! It was hard to see as the camera could only follow so closely. Thankfully, he managed to slow up a bit as his feet hit the building (according to a later report)...nothing to grab onto so he quickly slid/fell/fluttered? toward the ground..couldn't see how he landed or what he fell onto so it was a rather heart-in-your-throat moment. We weren't certain whether he was dead or alive or injured for a while. Thankfully, some local birders were contacted and they managed to find him and everything appeared to be o.k. with him. :) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NoNgRlHsZxU
Quote from: Irons on June 24, 2021, 06:25:30 AM
Bit like diving off the highest springboard at the local swimming pool for the first time! ???
Just saw your posting whilst slowly typing here. Yes! The towers are at least 70 feet high. You can see K3 fledge above. Those big tilted boxes on the left are lights which are angled down towards one of the athletic fields at the university.
By the way, his older sibling K1 had just left the nest (for only her second time) a few minutes earlier and landed in one of the large trees that you see. Her landing this time was a bit more awkward; you could see her hanging upside down for a bit trying to right herself!
PD
Thanks for the report, PD :)
K3's "crash" against the brick wall is indeed impressive... It's reassuring to know he or she is doing well.
Quote from: mabuse on June 24, 2021, 01:31:36 PM
Thanks for the report, PD :)
K3's "crash" against the brick wall is indeed impressive... It's reassuring to know he or she is doing well.
That is what I thought. Then put it down to my eyes deceiving me. 8)
Quote from: mabuse on June 24, 2021, 01:31:36 PM
Thanks for the report, PD :)
K3's "crash" against the brick wall is indeed impressive... It's reassuring to know he or she is doing well.
Quote from: Irons on June 24, 2021, 11:44:12 PM
That is what I thought. Then put it down to my eyes deceiving me. 8)
Pleased to see that K3 managed to get back to the nest. K1 is definitely the stronger flier of the two for the time being. No update on K2 who is still at the wildlife rehab center. From what I understand (from a vet who also is a falconer and who is one of the mods on the Cornell hawk cams and chatters group), if K2 is away from her parents for longer than a week, a falconer will have to help her with fledging.
Kids! ;)
PD
Some sad news to report: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/cams/an-update-on-red-tailed-hawk-chick-k2s-condition/
PD
(https://i79.servimg.com/u/f79/19/91/80/91/kb7xkv10.jpg)
(https://www.smiley-lol.com/smiley/expressifs/yeux/alaloupe.gif) ?!
Quote from: mabuse on June 30, 2021, 03:56:39 PM
(https://i79.servimg.com/u/f79/19/91/80/91/kb7xkv10.jpg)
(https://www.smiley-lol.com/smiley/expressifs/yeux/alaloupe.gif) ?!
:laugh: I suspect that that is one happy bird (with all of that fruit to choose from)? :)
The red-tailed hawks K1 and K3 are still doing well--busy working on their hunting and survival skills. Latest: hunting bark. :D
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on July 01, 2021, 03:22:51 AM
:laugh: I suspect that that is one happy bird (with all of that fruit to choose from)? :)
:)
This is a Rosy-faced lovebird... https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rosy-faced_lovebird
I read they like to live in cacti !
(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/a6/ba/04/a6ba04fb7138c8a0eaecc20d7fdd057c.jpg)
There is a virus affecting the U.S. mid-Atlantic states that has resulted in significant songbird deaths. It hasn't gotten as far north as where I am, but local authorities and agencies have recommended shutting down bird feeders and bird baths. (It's hard to get the little ones to wear masks and eliminating bird feeders would help with avian social distancing.) This isn't something I'm keen on doing because working in the yard or reading a book outside surrounded by all kinds of birds and their distinctive sounds is one of my favorite summer pleasures. There is another factor, though, that resulted in my cutting back on the number of feeders I fill -- pigeons!
I have nothing against pigeons. As a matter of fact, I find them to be among the most interesting of birds. As clumsy as they might appear on land, they are graceful flyers capable of attaining some significant velocities. They also have a variety of coloration that lets you readily identify and recognize individuals, something that isn't as easy to do with other groups of birds. Unfortunately, for the first time in a very many years, pigeons have been visiting my property in huge numbers and when 30 or more at a time start roosting on neighboring roofs, it isn't a good thing. No one has complained (yet), but I've eliminated the feeders that tended to result in seeds scattered on the ground while keeping the thistle and suet feeders going. This has helped somewhat, and while there are still pigeon visitors, my backyard doesn't look like the set of an Alfred Hitchcock movie.
I'm not sure what caused this sudden rock dove invasion, but I suspect the fact I haven't heard or seen any hawks lately might have something to do with it.
Quote from: Szykneij on August 06, 2021, 01:25:21 PM
I'm not sure what caused this sudden rock dove invasion, but I suspect the fact I haven't heard or seen any hawks lately might have something to do with it.
In the absence of hawks, I'm sure a few cats would be happy to help you !
Personally, I have a bit of the same problem with turtledoves, which can become very intrusive over time and their cooing can be quite annoying... ::)
A photo that I like... :D
(https://i79.servimg.com/u/f79/19/91/80/91/the_mi10.jpg)
« The Miami Zoo put 30 flamingos in the bathroom during hurricane Andrew, to ride out the storm. 1992 »
Quote from: mabuse on October 07, 2021, 11:28:52 AM
A photo that I like... :D
« The Miami Zoo put 30 flamingos in the bathroom during hurricane Andrew, to ride out the storm. 1992 »
Awesome picture! It looks like they're fascinated by the mirror.
Quote from: Szykneij on August 06, 2021, 01:25:21 PM
-- pigeons!
I have nothing against pigeons. As a matter of fact, I find them to be among the most interesting of birds. As clumsy as they might appear on land, they are graceful flyers capable of attaining some significant velocities. They also have a variety of coloration that lets you readily identify and recognize individuals, something that isn't as easy to do with other groups of birds. Unfortunately, for the first time in a very many years, pigeons have been visiting my property in huge numbers and when 30 or more at a time start roosting on neighboring roofs, it isn't a good thing. No one has complained (yet), but I've eliminated the feeders that tended to result in seeds scattered on the ground while keeping the thistle and suet feeders going. This has helped somewhat, and while there are still pigeon visitors, my backyard doesn't look like the set of an Alfred Hitchcock movie.
Pigeons. Or as Woody Allen calls them, "rats with wings". When I was Food Safety Director for a large animal feed manufacturer, keeping the pigeons away was a major struggle! >:( :(
8)
Quote from: Gurn Blanston on October 07, 2021, 11:42:00 AM
Pigeons. Or as Woody Allen calls them, "rats with wings". When I was Food Safety Director for a large animal feed manufacturer, keeping the pigeons away was a major struggle! >:( :(
8)
From what I've read, starlings are also a major headache in that regard.
Last winter, we hung seed bells on our Crab Apple tree out front to watch the local birds come and go.
This winter, my wife had me buy this suction cup bird feeder (pictured) to affix to the front window so the girls could really watch the birds up close.
They seem to be enjoying it so far. :)
VS
Quote from: VonStupp on December 19, 2021, 09:20:46 AM
Last winter, we hung seed bells on our Crab Apple tree out front to watch the local birds come and go.
This winter, my wife had me buy this suction cup bird feeder (pictured) to affix to the front window so the girls could really watch the birds up close.
They seem to be enjoying it so far. :)
VS
Oh, nice! A win-win for everybody then. :) Are the suction cups working well?
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on December 19, 2021, 10:34:09 AM
Oh, nice! A win-win for everybody then. :) Are the suction cups working well?
PD
So far, so good. Of course, it hasn't been very wet yet, so we will see how the season works.
VS
Quote from: VonStupp on December 19, 2021, 10:51:34 AM
So far, so good. Of course, it hasn't been very wet yet, so we will see how the season works.
VS
What room do you have it attached to? Would be fun to attach one to a kitchen window...as I'm in there a lot. One possible setback here: we have a ton of squirrels around here. I suspect that they would try to get into it.
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on December 19, 2021, 11:49:19 AM
What room do you have it attached to? Would be fun to attach one to a kitchen window...as I'm in there a lot. One possible setback here: we have a ton of squirrels around here. I suspect that they would try to get into it.
PD
Currently, it resides at our main living area, where we spend the most amount of our time. When the spring and summer seasons come round, I may move it to the kitchen window. It creates a bit of a mess for being at the front of the house.
Yes, on the Amazon product page, reviewers mention this doesn't keep squirrels out, but that aspect doesn't seem to have blighted their reviews. Instead there are a ton of amusing customer pictures of rascal squirrels (and many birds of course).
https://www.amazon.com/Natures-Hangout-Weatherproof-Feeders-Watching/dp/B00YSU3WG2 (https://www.amazon.com/Natures-Hangout-Weatherproof-Feeders-Watching/dp/B00YSU3WG2)
Quote from: VonStupp on December 19, 2021, 03:13:44 PM
Yes, on the Amazon product page, reviewers mention this doesn't keep squirrels out, but that aspect doesn't seem to have blighted their reviews. Instead their are a ton of amusing customer pictures of rascal squirrels (and many birds of course).
I've found that squirrels are amazingly resourceful and will manage to figure out how to access even supposedly squirrel-proof feeders. My solution is to put feeders on one side of the property that are easy for them to get at, away from the feeders specifically for the birds. The squirrels will take the path of least resistance (and they need to eat, too, anyway.) Also, they don't seem to have any interest in Nyjer seed, so thistle feeders are good options if squirrels are a concern.
It reminds me of this drawing by Gary Larson :laugh:
(https://i79.servimg.com/u/f79/19/91/80/91/eb4sfh10.jpg)
Quote from: VonStupp on December 19, 2021, 03:13:44 PM
Currently, it resides at our main living area, where we spend the most amount of our time. When the spring and summer seasons come round, I may move it to the kitchen window. It creates a bit of a mess for being at the front of the house.
Yes, on the Amazon product page, reviewers mention this doesn't keep squirrels out, but that aspect doesn't seem to have blighted their reviews. Instead there are a ton of amusing customer pictures of rascal squirrels (and many birds of course).
https://www.amazon.com/Natures-Hangout-Weatherproof-Feeders-Watching/dp/B00YSU3WG2 (https://www.amazon.com/Natures-Hangout-Weatherproof-Feeders-Watching/dp/B00YSU3WG2)
Well, please keep us updated. :) And good luck! By the way, I love the second photo on the website--of a little girl and a cat next to her watching the feeder! :D
Quote from: Szykneij on December 19, 2021, 04:16:03 PM
I've found that squirrels are amazingly resourceful and will manage to figure out how to access even supposedly squirrel-proof feeders. My solution is to put feeders on one side of the property that are easy for them to get at, away from the feeders specifically for the birds. The squirrels will take the path of least resistance (and they need to eat, too, anyway.) Also, they don't seem to have any interest in niger seed, so thistle feeders are good options if squirrels are a concern.
Yes, they are clever and stubborn little creatures Tony. I've seen on numerous occasions squirrels either getting into or stuffing their faces on the seeds that fall onto the ground.
Quote from: mabuse on December 19, 2021, 04:28:13 PM
It reminds me of this drawing by Gary Larson :laugh:
(https://i79.servimg.com/u/f79/19/91/80/91/eb4sfh10.jpg)
Very funny! ;D
PD
By my home, in France, red squirrels don't proliferate so much and they are often quite fearful...
I always try to give them something to eat (walnuts, sunflower seeds...) but it is birds that come to loot their feeder... >:(
Here is one that I coaxed three years ago... ;D
(https://i79.servimg.com/u/f79/19/91/80/91/20190611.jpg)
Quote from: mabuse on December 20, 2021, 10:30:46 AM
By my home, in France, red squirrels don't proliferate so much and they are often quite fearful...
I always try to give them something to eat (walnuts, sunflower seeds...) but it is birds that come to loot their feeder... >:(
Here is one that I coaxed three years ago... ;D
(https://i79.servimg.com/u/f79/19/91/80/91/20190611.jpg)
I believe that I remember reading that their numbers have dwindled to the point that they have become much less common (perhaps not endangered though?? Not certain.). Grey squirrels are dominant here. Fat and happy!
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on December 20, 2021, 11:20:29 AM
I believe that I remember reading that their numbers have dwindled to the point that they have become much less common (perhaps not endangered though?? Not certain.). Grey squirrels are dominant here. Fat and happy!
PD
... Huge in numbers with much bushier tails!
Quote from: Szykneij on December 20, 2021, 12:21:28 PM
... Huge in numbers with much bushier tails!
Confused here...which ones are you referring to in your neck of the woods?
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on December 20, 2021, 12:26:09 PM
Confused here...which ones are you referring to in your neck of the woods?
PD
Gray squirrels around here, and lots of them.
Research tells me that it's not unusual for Robins to overwinter in my area, but I was caught off guard this morning to find at least ten of them foraging in the backyard. The Massachusetts Audobon website says:
Most birds that regularly winter in New England are well suited to withstand cold temperatures. In the fall, many birds grow additional feathers for insulation. To keep warm while roosting, birds fluff their feathers. Because of the way their feathers are layered, this behavior traps pockets of warm air next to the skin.
During winter days, many birds feed almost continually, storing up fat that they burn off at night to keep warm. There isn't much one can feed robins in the winter. They're very adept at finding their preferred food and rarely visit feeding stations.
During severe weather, robins may eat raisins, berries, or pieces of apples placed on the ground.
I've left the pokeweed and other plants that have died back standing so the birds have seed and berry options other than my feeders. I also have have snowberry and winterberry bushes that the mockingbirds seem to be enjoying. I'll have to look into having berries and raisins on hand for those days of snowfall ahead.
Quote from: Szykneij on December 22, 2021, 05:49:16 AM
Research tells me that it's not unusual for Robins to overwinter in my area, but I was caught off guard this morning to find at least ten of them foraging in the backyard. The Massachusetts Audobon website says:
Most birds that regularly winter in New England are well suited to withstand cold temperatures. In the fall, many birds grow additional feathers for insulation. To keep warm while roosting, birds fluff their feathers. Because of the way their feathers are layered, this behavior traps pockets of warm air next to the skin.
During winter days, many birds feed almost continually, storing up fat that they burn off at night to keep warm. There isn't much one can feed robins in the winter. They're very adept at finding their preferred food and rarely visit feeding stations.
During severe weather, robins may eat raisins, berries, or pieces of apples placed on the ground.
I've left the pokeweed and other plants that have died back standing so the birds have seed and berry options other than my feeders. I also have have snowberry and winterberry bushes that the mockingbirds seem to be enjoying. I'll have to look into having berries and raisins on hand for those days of snowfall ahead.
Interesting information Tony. Thank you for sharing it!
I had fun yesterday making a "nest" for a fake bird decoration that I have. It's a red bird with red and black tail feathers..the body is approximately 5 inches long. It has some wires next to its feet, but it doesn't stay well on my Christmas tree. Last year, with the cooperation of my *neighbors, I cut off some short and thin branches (mostly yew) and used some wire to hold them together. With some finagling, I managed to get the bird to sit upright in the nest. He/she is on one of my mantlepieces. :)
*I was given a special dispensation to create a nest for said bird ad infinitum. ;D
PD
Robin being a nuisance. :D
https://youtu.be/mkR1Nkvyrvg
Start at 1.52.
Quote from: Irons on December 23, 2021, 07:23:48 AM
Robin being a nuisance. :D
https://youtu.be/mkR1Nkvyrvg
Start at 1.52.
:laugh: ;D A very friendly little bird! Certainly not shy! Love how he feeds it some worms. :)
PD
Quote from: Irons on December 23, 2021, 07:23:48 AM
Robin being a nuisance. :D
https://youtu.be/mkR1Nkvyrvg
Start at 1.52.
That is one cool little bird!
I found the leaf mold part interesting. I think it's more of a British thing because I really wasn't aware of it until fairly recently and it's not something I think is taken advantage of here like it should be.
I've always mulched the dead leaves on my lawn and open areas to let them return into the soil. (The leaves along the borders and edge areas I leave alone until the spring after all of the native bees and other pollinators have emerged.) But now I collect a lot of the mulched leaves and have filled two barrels with them to use as leaf mold for my garden. Makes more sense than bagging them up like others do to be collected by the city on specified days.
Quote from: Szykneij on December 23, 2021, 01:06:08 PM
That is one cool little bird!
I found the leaf mold part interesting. I think it's more of a British thing because I really wasn't aware of it until fairly recently and it's not something I think is taken advantage of here like it should be.
I've always mulched the dead leaves on my lawn and open areas to let them return into the soil. (The leaves along the borders and edge areas I leave alone until the spring after all of the native bees and other pollinators have emerged.) But now I collect a lot of the mulched leaves and have filled two barrels with them to use as leaf mold for my garden. Makes more sense than bagging them up like others do to be collected by the city on specified days.
The earthworms certainly love them! Sometimes I'll make a big pile of them and then use my lawnmower with the mulching blade on them to help them break down quicker (takes up less room too).
Had a wonderful treat tonight. Woke up to the sound of one (guessing probably two) barred owl hooting outside my window! So tempted to go outside to see if I could see it, but it's so cold outside! Boy, he/she/they were very noisy tonight! I suspect that they were busy calling and replying to each other. :)
In any event, what a treat!
PD
Quote from: Szykneij on December 23, 2021, 01:06:08 PM
That is one cool little bird!
I found the leaf mold part interesting. I think it's more of a British thing because I really wasn't aware of it until fairly recently and it's not something I think is taken advantage of here like it should be.
I've always mulched the dead leaves on my lawn and open areas to let them return into the soil. (The leaves along the borders and edge areas I leave alone until the spring after all of the native bees and other pollinators have emerged.) But now I collect a lot of the mulched leaves and have filled two barrels with them to use as leaf mold for my garden. Makes more sense than bagging them up like others do to be collected by the city on specified days.
The chap in the video trawls the streets for fallen leaves and fills twenty odd builders bags of them.
I don't go that far! Just filling one builders bag a season - though I must admit, making sure no one looking, I did scoop some up from a pavement last week. ::) It is surprising how far they compost down to leaf mould. Starting with a huge amount, a year later less then a quarter. Lovely sweet smelling stuff though.
He also picks up compost dumped at the roadside by cannabis growers. Growing cannabis must be a thriving industry in the West Midlands.
Quote from: Irons on December 24, 2021, 01:46:56 AM
The chap in the video trawls the streets for fallen leaves and fills twenty odd builders bags of them.
I don't go that far! Just filling one builders bag a season - though I must admit, making sure no one looking, I did scoop some up from a pavement last week. ::) It is surprising how far they compost down to leaf mould. Starting with a huge amount, a year later less then a quarter. Lovely sweet smelling stuff though.
He also picks up compost dumped at the roadside by cannabis growers. Growing cannabis must be a thriving industry in the West Midlands.
He certainly seems to enjoy his gardening and provides a nice series of videos.
Question: When you refer to your "allotment", do you mean what we usually call here a community garden plot -- a section of town land set aside for residents to use for planting? Or is it land that you personally own?
(Merry Christmas Eve!)
Quote from: Szykneij on December 24, 2021, 02:43:09 AM
He certainly seems to enjoy his gardening and provides a nice series of videos.
Question: When you refer to your "allotment", do you mean what we usually call here a community garden plot -- a section of town land set aside for residents to use for planting? Or is it land that you personally own?
(Merry Christmas Eve!)
Nearly there, so I wish you a Merry Christmas day!
Allotments came about during WWII. The slogan "Dig for Victory" really meant - grow your own vegetables otherwise with the German blockade we may lose the war due to starvation!
A large area of Council land where individual sections are leased on a yearly basis to the general public. Demand is high, our particular site has a waiting list of 32 at the present time. We have a committee with a site manager and treasurer. Also a "Hut" which is open on Sundays selling anything connected with gardening although we are prohibited to sell produce. Non-profit making all monies go to the upkeeping of the site which covers 6.5 acres with 90 allotments.
Quote from: Irons on December 24, 2021, 01:51:23 PM
Nearly there, so I wish you a Merry Christmas day!
Allotments came about during WWII. The slogan "Dig for Victory" really meant - grow your own vegetables otherwise with the German blockade we may lose the war due to starvation!
A large area of Council land where individual sections are leased on a yearly basis to the general public. Demand is high, our particular site has a waiting list of 32 at the present time. We have a committee with a site manager and treasurer. Also a "Hut" which is open on Sundays selling anything connected with gardening although we are prohibited to sell produce. Non-profit making all monies go to the upkeeping of the site which covers 6.5 acres with 90 allotments.
Interesting. Thanks for that! In my area, some cities and towns have what are called community gardens where city land is set aside, but not to the extent and organization of what you have. During the World Wars, the U.S. did encourage "Victory Gardens" to aid with the food supply and build morale, and one of our more popular public televison programs is titled "The Victory Garden".
Quote from: Szykneij on December 25, 2021, 02:31:47 AM
Interesting. Thanks for that! In my area, some cities and towns have what are called community gardens where city land is set aside, but not to the extent and organization of what you have. During the World Wars, the U.S. did encourage "Victory Gardens" to aid with the food supply and build morale, and one of our more popular public televison programs is titled "The Victory Garden".
I don't believe that my town charges anything for a plot--haven't looked into it in ages. They are popular though. :)
Soundly slept last night. No idea whether or not "my" owls came back. Yesterday, I dropped by my neighbors' house and found out that they too had heard the birds--though they had thought that they were dogs and were further away. ;D I did my best impressions of what I had heard and she agreed that that was what they had heard. I'm learning!
And a warm Merry, Merry to you!
PD
Woke up this morning to a 2-degree outside temperature (-17 C) with a wind chill way below zero. I made sure the feeders were full and put out extra suet.
Quote from: Szykneij on January 15, 2022, 07:10:20 AM
Woke up this morning to a 2-degree outside temperature (-17 C) with a wind chill way below zero. I made sure the feeders were full and put out extra suet.
Your birds certainly are lucky! :)
PD
Watching some of the bird cam of a great horned owl (in Savannah, Georgia). I received a notice from Cornell that the cam is now streaming and that there is an egg in the nest. As I was up fairly early today, I went to check it out. Went from a sleeping owl on top of the egg to it's now turning the egg and was faced towards the camera for a short bit. Sadly, it's now facing away. In any event, it's fun to check them out. And what a huge nest!
https://www.allaboutbirds.org/cams/great-horned-owls/
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on January 23, 2022, 02:50:12 AM
Watching some of the bird cam of a great horned owl (in Savannah, Georgia). I received a notice from Cornell that the cam is now streaming and that there is an egg in the nest. As I was up fairly early today, I went to check it out. Went from a sleeping owl on top of the egg to it's now turning the egg and was faced towards the camera for a short bit. Sadly, it's now facing away. In any event, it's fun to check them out. And what a huge nest!
https://www.allaboutbirds.org/cams/great-horned-owls/
PD
The owl looks very comfortable and content.
Quote from: Szykneij on January 23, 2022, 04:10:04 AM
The owl looks very comfortable and content.
Yes, s/he does. :) I was surprised to see it sleeping on its side earlier (at least that is what it looked like to me).
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on January 23, 2022, 08:05:26 AM
Yes, s/he does. :) I was surprised to see it sleeping on its side earlier (at least that is what it looked like to me).
PD
It's nice that they have 3 different camera angles. I also enjoyed checking out some of the other camera sites that were listed.
Quote from: Szykneij on January 23, 2022, 08:36:50 AM
It's nice that they have 3 different camera angles. I also enjoyed checking out some of the other camera sites that were listed.
Yes, and they even have volunteers who help to man them so you can often see closeups or the surrounding area, etc.
Glad that you are enjoying them. I particularly enjoy watching the Cornell Feeder cam one (one time I saw three different varieties of woodpeckers there at the same time--including a huge pileated one!) and the red-tailed hawk cams. Cornell has mods and camera operators who monitor those from when it's getting close to egg laying time to when the last chicks fledge and stop returning to the nest. The same pair of hawks have nested at one or the other of two places at Cornell for many years [Though Big Red had to find a new mate after sadly her long-term mate Ezra passed away]. They also have several chat sessions a week, so people can ask questions and learn about RTHs and raptors in general too.
I like how with the feeder cam one, they have a bunch of common local birds who visit the feeders listed below with photos. It's handy for identifying what you are seeing and if you click on them, you can learn more about the various species. :)
PD
I just returned from house-sitting in Maine. This guy was a daily visitor.
Quote from: Szykneij on February 03, 2022, 10:27:58 AM
I just returned from house-sitting in Maine. This guy was a daily visitor.
Cool! 8) Lucky you!
PD
Quote from: Szykneij on February 03, 2022, 10:27:58 AM
I just returned from house-sitting in Maine. This guy was a daily visitor.
And I think I have cracked it with a daily visit from a robin!
Quote from: Irons on February 04, 2022, 01:05:49 AM
And I think I have cracked it with a daily visit from a robin!
Robins are fun to watch too. It always makes me smile when I see them on the sidewalk with me approaching them from behind (as in walking back home). They go running ahead at the last moment, then pause, repeat several times, and then eventually scurry off onto someones lawn or into their garden. ;D
Was very happy to see some red-tailed hawks flying together two days in a row. There were actually three of them which I have seldom seen 'til now. Not certain whether one of them was a juvie trying to visit with mom and dad or an intruder into the couple's territory. The last time, other than one scree, they were all circling in big loops and didn't seem to be dive-bombing/attacking whichever one was the "intruder".
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on February 04, 2022, 02:53:22 AM
Robins are fun to watch too. It always makes me smile when I see them on the sidewalk with me approaching them from behind (as in walking back home). They go running ahead at the last moment, then pause, repeat several times, and then eventually scurry with onto someones lawn or into their garden. ;D
They're smart, too. In the summertime, when they see me pick up the garden hose, they perch nearby knowing the water will be bringing some worms to the surface.
Quote from: Szykneij on February 04, 2022, 06:58:18 AM
They're smart, too. In the summertime, when they see me pick up the garden hose, they perch nearby knowing the water will be bringing some worms to the surface.
;D
PD
Some excellent news: Big Red (the female RTH at Cornell) has returned to her familiar nesting site and has laid two eggs!
I hadn't checked out the Cornell hawk cams lately and alas, missed seeing her and her partner Arthur prepping the nest for their latest brood. First egg was laid on March 30th. In the past, if I'm recalling correctly, they have been every three days. You can watch the birds live (they have two nest cameras). Just type in Cornell and hawk cams and you'll easily find them.
Amazed also to find out that Big Red is now 20 years old! Where did the time go?
PD
There are a few hawks that like to fly around near my house. A couple of times on my morning walk I'll see them on the ground and realize how HUGE they really are.
I think I've made a new buddy. Somehow, this guy wandered into my man-cave office (i.e. garage) last night and worked his way into an inaccesible corner. I finally got him out this morning and sent him on his way, but he keeps coming back. He doesn't seem injured, but can't fly. I'm not up on my pigeon knowledge and am wondering if he's a juvenile. He seems a little smaller than most of the others around the bird feeder, but has all of the adult markings. I'm keeping him in the toolshed tonight to stay safe from nocturnal predators and will send him on his way again tomorrow, but I'm concerned about the hawk that comes around ocassionally. Pigeons are its favorite target and this guy would be easy pickings.
Quote from: DavidW on April 02, 2023, 02:57:27 PMThere are a few hawks that like to fly around near my house. A couple of times on my morning walk I'll see them on the ground and realize how HUGE they really are.
Are they red-tailed or some other variety?
Quote from: Szykneij on April 02, 2023, 03:24:37 PMI think I've made a new buddy. Somehow, this guy wandered into my man-cave office (i.e. garage) last night and worked his way into an inaccesible corner. I finally got him out this morning and sent him on his way, but he keeps coming back. He doesn't seem injured, but can't fly. I'm not up on my pigeon knowledge and am wondering if he's a juvenile. He seems a little smaller than most of the others around the bird feeder, but has all of the adult markings. I'm keeping him in the toolshed tonight to stay safe from nocturnal predators and will send him on his way again tomorrow, but I'm concerned about the hawk that comes around ocassionally. Pigeons are its favorite target and this guy would be easy pickings.
You could try contacting a local birding group or a wildlife rehabilitation organization and ask them for some advice.
PD
It is really nice to see how the bald eagle population has rebounded tremendously over the last 25-30 years. We now seem them frequently and routinely in Manitoba.
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on April 03, 2023, 03:19:32 AMYou could try contacting a local birding group or a wildlife rehabilitation organization and ask them for some advice.
PD
Unfortunately, my experience trying that around here has not been good. Last summer, I needed advice for some rescued baby squirrels that lost their mother and was never able to get any assistance. In this case, the pigeon seems healthy and happy to go about its business, so I'll just keep an eye out for predators. If it wants to spend the night in my toolshed, that's fine with me. Hopefully, it will eventually find its wings.
Starting to see our official Canadian embassadors of spring.....Canada Geese, returning here in Manitoba.
Another sign of spring for me will be once the dark eyed juncos return in bunches into our yard for a week or two, but that hasn't happened yet. :)
Quote from: OrchestralNut on April 03, 2023, 04:02:38 AMStarting to see our official Canadian embassadors of spring.....Canada Geese, returning here in Manitoba.
Another sign of spring for me will be once the dark eyed juncos return in bunches into our yard for a week or two, but that hasn't happened yet. :)
That's because the juncos are still here in my back yard! They seem to be sticking around later in the spring than usual. Are they later than usual in getting back up there?
Interesting about the Canada geese. Here in New England, they have become year-round residents and can cause problems where they gather in large numbers with their droppings. I didn't realize there are those that still migrate.
Quote from: Szykneij on April 03, 2023, 04:18:10 AMThat's because the juncos are still here in my back yard! They seem to be sticking around later in the spring than usual. Are they later than usual in getting back up there?
Interesting about the Canada geese. Here in New England, they have become year-round residents and can cause problems where they gather in large numbers with their droppings. I didn't realize there are those that still migrate.
We are experiencing a late spring here. March was consistently colder than usual, with not a lot of thaw. So perhaps that is why your juncos are lingering. :D
Oh yes, a lot of Canada Geese migrate, and most of the Manitoba ones do. You won't see them in the winter time here, that's for sure!
Quote from: OrchestralNut on April 03, 2023, 04:25:08 AMWe are experiencing a late spring here. March was consistently colder than usual, with not a lot of thaw. So perhaps that is why your juncos are lingering. :D
Oh yes, a lot of Canada Geese migrate, and most of the Manitoba ones do. You won't see them in the winter time here, that's for sure!
I saw one straggler (Canada Goose) here yesterday; last month there were tons of them flying through. Noisy critters to say the least! :)
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on April 03, 2023, 03:19:32 AMAre they red-tailed or some other variety?
I looked it up from an identification site just now... turns out that they are not hawks. They are black vultures. What do they know that I don't when I'm reading outside and they are circling overhead?? :o
Quote from: DavidW on April 03, 2023, 08:29:42 AMI looked it up from an identification site just now... turns out that they are not hawks. They are black vultures. What do they know that I don't when I'm reading outside and they are circling overhead?? :o
I haven't seen black vultures before in my neck of the woods (though apparently they have been extending their territory northwards). I wouldn't panic though if I were you. From the Cornell website:
"Food
Carrion Black Vultures feed almost exclusively on carrion, locating it by soaring high in the skies on thermals. From this vantage they can spot carcasses and also keep an eye on Turkey Vultures—which have a more developed sense of smell—and follow them toward food. Black Vultures often gather in numbers at carcasses and then displace Turkey Vultures from the food. Their carrion diet includes feral hogs, poultry, cattle, donkeys, raccoons, coyotes, opossums, striped skunks, and armadillos. Sometimes Black Vultures wade into shallow water to feed on floating carrion, or to catch small fish. They occasionally kill skunks, opossums, night-herons, leatherback turtle hatchlings, and livestock, including young pigs, lambs, and calves. They also often investigate dumpsters and landfills to pick at human discards."
I'll often see turkey vultures though. Take a looksie here (in the compare section): https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Black_Vulture/id
I'm slowly getting better at identifying birds (normally, alas, minus binocs). One of the things that jumps out quickly when seeing tuvus from underneath, is the distinctive black kind of T-shape with the white feathers--and (if close enough) you can also see their red head. They also have kind of a wobbly flight with upturned wing tips--and are pretty darn big too.
PD
p.s. By the way, Cornell has a free birder's app called Merlin. You can load various packages on it (like for the area where you live or if you're traveling). It can be quite helpful identifying birds in your area (various ways including taking a photo and telling the app where and when you saw the bird, etc.).
Quote from: OrchestralNut on April 03, 2023, 04:25:08 AMWe are experiencing a late spring here. March was consistently colder than usual, with not a lot of thaw. So perhaps that is why your juncos are lingering. :D
Oh yes, a lot of Canada Geese migrate, and most of the Manitoba ones do. You won't see them in the winter time here, that's for sure!
While out walking my dogs today, I passed these Canada Geese who didn't look like they were in a hurry to go anywhere.
Then, when I got home, my trail cam caught this Junco in flight. Beautiful birds if you can get close enough for a good look.
Geese.jpg
Junco.jpg
Yes, the juncos are beautiful and more varied in colour than one might first think. Different shades.
Another sign here of late spring is that there are still sightings of the ever majestic snowy owls. Normally, they are gone back further north by now.
Quote from: OrchestralNut on April 03, 2023, 03:19:49 PMYes, the juncos are beautiful and more varied in colour than one might first think. Different shades.
Another sign here of late spring is that there are still sightings of the ever majestic snowy owls. Normally, they are gone back further north by now.
Would love to see a snowy owl.
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on April 03, 2023, 04:43:09 PMWould love to see a snowy owl.
PD
They are so magnificent! Such beauty. Pratically invisible in a field of snow. During the winter, a drive on rural roads can produce a sighting here. They will often be perched on telephone/hydro poles.
A couple of weeks ago, I saw a male hairy woodpecker pecking out a nest in an old dead tree along a trail that I like to hike. Today, I was on that same path and was happy to see it outside that same hole. Perhaps doing some fine tuning/interior design? :)
I did find the answer to one question that occurred to me earlier: do hairy woodpeckers add any sort of soft materials to their nesting holes...and no was the answer....though some of the wood chips left from the excavation apparently make a bed of sorts.
Ooh! Just read that apparently they make the nests less than two weeks before egg laying begins. Drat! I wish that I had jotted down exactly when I saw him making the nest. Will have to keep an eye and an ear out for the chicks (I think in about 2 weeks time).
PD
For the third night in a row, my pigeon friend has waddled into the toolshed attached to my office to pass the night in safety. (She must feel secure with the Louisville slugger at hand.) I've decided she's a female based on the actions of some of the other pigeons when she's out and about. Although there are no visible injuries, it's clear she is unable to fly. I'll wait a few more days to see if it's something that fixes itself. If not, I know someone who works for a veterinarian who cares for birds.
Pidgy.jpg
Look who came to visit my classroom.
IMG-0981r.jpg
Quote from: Szykneij on April 04, 2023, 03:06:37 PMFor the third night in a row, my pigeon friend has waddled into the toolshed attached to my office to pass the night in safety. (She must feel secure with the Louisville slugger at hand.) I've decided she's a female based on the actions of some of the other pigeons when she's out and about. Although there are no visible injuries, it's clear she is unable to fly. I'll wait a few more days to see if it's something that fixes itself. If not, I know someone who works for a veterinarian who cares for birds.
Pidgy.jpg
That's sweet of you to offer her free lodging. :)
PD
Quote from: DavidW on April 04, 2023, 06:08:45 PMLook who came to visit my classroom.
Did he have a late pass? :)
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on April 05, 2023, 03:49:47 AMThat's sweet of you to offer her free lodging. :)
PD
No problem. She doesn't eat much or take up too much space. :)
The trick is getting the dogs to leave her alone.
Quote from: Szykneij on April 05, 2023, 05:10:07 AMDid he have a late pass? :)
No problem. She doesn't eat much or take up too much space. :)
The trick is getting the dogs to leave her alone.
;D I suspect that he was searching for the art department--to model.
So, the dogs are temporarily banned from her new home?
PD
According to many people on a Manitoba birding Facebook page I follow there have been several dark eyed junco sightings. A good sign of spring on its way! :)
Quote from: OrchestralNut on April 09, 2023, 05:43:25 AMAccording to many people on a Manitoba birding Facebook page I follow there have been several dark eyed junco sightings. A good sign of spring on its way! :)
Yay! :)
Went for a nice long walk with a friend by a river this morning. Saw some great things whilst out including a red-tailed hawk flying right overhead of us; it circled approximately 3 times or so right overhead of us then eventually flew away. Earlier in the morning we saw what we think might have been a great horned owl (alas my friend couldn't get his binoculars out quickly enough). It was flying towards some trees. It was massive and blocky in shape.
Great way to start the day. :)
PD
Had a very pleasant surprise this past Tuesday. I was leaving my house when all of a sudden to the side of me and out of the corner of my eye, I saw a bunch of birds leaving in a flurry. Apparently, they had been having a grand ole time using my bird bath. I sat down and was quiet and still for a bit, and they ended up coming back. Saw several black capped chickadees, a few song sparrows, and a couple of robins. Unfortunately, when the robins show up, the smaller birds flew away. They did keep coming back though to drink and bathe. Hadn't ever seen so many birds using it before! Thinking of maybe seeing if I could set up some kind of wildlife cam so that I could enjoy watching them from within my house...that or maybe set up a second bird bath somewhere that I could watch it through a window? In any event, nice to see that they were making good use of it. I had wondered over the years whether anything other than the wasps were making use of it.
PD
Delighted to see that Big Red's (the female red-tailed hawk at Cornell) first two eggs have hatched--the second one hatching early, early this morning. Watched her for a while feeding M1 (the first-hatched). What a good mother she is! And her faithful partner Arthur is such a good provider (bringing all of them various things to eat) as well as doing brooding duty (when Big Red lets him!). Hopefully the third egg will hatch in the next couple of days.
PD
The three red-tailed hawk chicks at Cornell are all doing well (knock-on-wood). They have been *flapping their wings and hopping all around the nest--including on top of the light boxes (which are angled down towards the athletic field. How the heck do they manage to stay on top of those things: they are metal and facing downward?!). Fledge or fludge day is any time now. I believe that the eldest one, M1 is 46 days old today (almost typed years!). Average fledge is something like 47.something-or-other days.
* a combo known as "flappercising"
PD
Delighted to announce that M1 had a successful (and powerful!) fledge this morning. If anyone wants to see it, it was at 6:00 (EST/Cornell Cam1 time). Just type in Cornell hawk and cam.
PD
We have had this guy for about a year now. The girls love him and have taught him to say a few things.
I liked Gus immediately due to his mischievous, curious look in his eyes. I included a picture of him playing hide and seek with me before we got him. He now flies all over the house; rules the roost, as they say
VS
Quote from: VonStupp on September 16, 2023, 12:21:21 PMWe have had this guy for about a year now. The girls love him and have taught him to say a few things.
I liked Gus immediately due to his mischievous, curious look in his eyes. I included a picture of him playing hide and seek with me before we got him. He now flies all over the house; rules the roost, as they say
VS
Sweet! ;D
PD
Quote from: VonStupp on September 16, 2023, 12:21:21 PMWe have had this guy for about a year now. The girls love him and have taught him to say a few things.
I liked Gus immediately due to his mischievous, curious look in his eyes. I included a picture of him playing hide and seek with me before we got him. He now flies all over the house; rules the roost, as they say
VS
You might appreciate this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bGsN7jzp5DE
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on September 17, 2023, 02:51:09 PMYou might appreciate this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bGsN7jzp5DE
PD
Adorable. :) I hope, god-willing, my mother will live many more years; but I know when she passes, I will inherit her cat. I wasn't sure how that would fly between bird and cat.
VS
Quote from: VonStupp on September 17, 2023, 03:23:50 PMAdorable. :) I hope, god-willing, my mother will live many more years; but I know when she passes, I will inherit her cat. I wasn't sure how that would fly between bird and cat.
VS
Hopefully, she will live much longer and that if kitty is still alive when she passes, that all will go well between the two. It's amazing how much and how often animals of different species become friends. :)
PD
Had really cool experience today. A friend and I did an errand together (mid-afternoon) and then went for a short walk along a local pond/river. Alas, didn't see many birds there but the weather was particularly nice for this time of year, so we enjoyed it. Then went out to do a tiny bit of grocery shopping and came back to my house late afternoon. Unloaded groceries and said our goodbyes. Friend was just about starting to get back into his vehicle when we both heard a loud squawk (I was by the front door and went to go outside at the same time as he called me to come back out.). Thought that it might be a red-tailed hawk at first. Went down the stairs and looked up at where he had pointed: it was a bald eagle sitting high up in a tree of mine (an adult). It just hung out on one of the branches, sitting in the sunshine looking around. We watched it for about 10 minutes and then saw it fly away. It was huge! Beautiful and striking bird.
Bald eagles are second in size in terms of birds in the US. The only larger bird is the California Condor.
I feel honored that it chose to sit--for even a short while--in one of my trees.
PD
One of the magpies was making the most of the sun just now.
Quote from: steve ridgway on December 01, 2023, 06:27:50 AMOne of the magpies was making the most of the sun just now.
Cool! I've never seen a magpie before. Wonder if we have them in my area? And, nope!
Their coloring is lovely.
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on December 01, 2023, 06:36:44 AMTheir coloring is lovely.
I'll keep an eye open for any magpie feathers, they have blue and green in as well as black and white.
Quote from: steve ridgway on December 01, 2023, 08:25:55 AMI'll keep an eye open for any magpie feathers, they have blue and green in as well as black and white.
I love this website--very helpful in identifying birds. https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Eurasian_Magpie/
It's run by Cornell University.
PD
Quote from: VonStupp on September 16, 2023, 12:21:21 PMWe have had this guy for about a year now. The girls love him and have taught him to say a few things.
I liked Gus immediately due to his mischievous, curious look in his eyes. I included a picture of him playing hide and seek with me before we got him. He now flies all over the house; rules the roost, as they say
VS
How's Gus doing these days?
PD
Of course, observing these is dicey ...
Quote from: Scion7 on December 01, 2023, 09:17:48 AMOf course, observing these is dicey ...
What on earth are those?!
By the way, I read an article saying that they are trying to genetically engineer a comeback for the dodo (and possibly two other birds). Here's one article about that: https://www.cnn.com/2023/01/31/world/dodo-bring-back-from-extinction-colossal-scn/index.html
PD
A pair of the gigantic Dromornis stirtoni – one of the biggest birds of all time – wanders the landscape of the Australian Miocene with their attractively patterned chicks. Despite appearances, Dromornis and its kin – the dromornithids or mihirungs – are not closely related to other, similarly-shaped birds from the fossil record (like the gastornithids and phorusrhacids). They are instead allied to anseriforms – the wildfowl. This affinity would surely have affected some aspects of their life appearance.
Vegetarians, but at 12-14 feet tall, quite daunting. Many vegetarians are quite dangerous - rhinos, elephants, bull-type cows ... I wouldn't relish coming into their perceived-threat radius, if they were still around. (pushes Florestan out of the blind into their midst ...)
Quote from: Scion7 on December 01, 2023, 09:34:08 AMA pair of the gigantic Dromornis stirtoni – one of the biggest birds of all time – wanders the landscape of the Australian Miocene with their attractively patterned chicks. Despite appearances, Dromornis and its kin – the dromornithids or mihirungs – are not closely related to other, similarly-shaped birds from the fossil record (like the gastornithids and phorusrhacids). They are instead allied to anseriforms – the wildfowl. This affinity would surely have affected some aspects of their life appearance.
Vegetarians, but at 12-14 feet tall, quite daunting. Many vegetarians are quite dangerous - rhinos, elephants, bull-type cows ... I wouldn't relish coming into their perceived-threat radius, if they were still around.
Hey, if they're trying to bring back the dodo....well?
PD
A Swan on a Lake
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on December 01, 2023, 09:11:05 AMHow's Gus doing these days?
PD
Gus is good. As a green-cheek conure, he needs a lot of attention. Life and the holidays means he doesn't get out as much as I (and 'he') would like.
Since fall/winter allergies and illnesses come and go, he has imitated my cough and my daughters' sneezes. Too smart for his own good!
VS
Quote from: steve ridgway on December 02, 2023, 06:29:53 AMA Swan on a Lake
Looks like he/she is sitting on some ice--though I do see some sort of path behind it?
Quote from: VonStupp on December 03, 2023, 09:12:26 AMGus is good. As a green-cheek conure, he needs a lot of attention. Life and the holidays means he doesn't get out as much as I (and 'he') would like.
Since fall/winter allergies and illnesses come and go, he has imitated my cough and my daughters' sneezes. Too smart for his own good!
VS
lol Well, I'm glad that at least he is healthy!
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on December 03, 2023, 01:08:43 PMLooks like he/she is sitting on some ice--though I do see some sort of path behind it?
Yes, it was only thin soft ice and the swan flew off a few minutes later.
Quote from: steve ridgway on December 02, 2023, 06:29:53 AMA Swan on a Lake
My conception of swans being serene and graceful creatures changed drastically one snowy night when I tried to rescue one from traffic in the middle of a parkway. Out of the water, they have the proportions of geese with the same hissing dispositions (very much like icebergs, with the bulk of their mass under the water.)
This is the best picture I could get of what I believe to be a Cooper's Hawk that sometimes menaces my bird feeders.
IMG_E9311.JPG
Yes, swans and dogs don't mix well. Good photo of the hawk in action!
Quote from: Szykneij on December 04, 2023, 06:01:32 AMMy conception of swans being serene and graceful creatures changed drastically one snowy night when I tried to rescue one from traffic in the middle of a parkway. Out of the water, they have the proportions of geese with the same hissing dispositions (very much like icebergs, with the bulk of their mass under the water.)
This is the best picture I could get of what I believe to be a Cooper's Hawk that sometimes menaces my bird feeders.
IMG_E9311.JPG
Cool! I know that it can be hard at times to watch nature in action, but remember that a hawk has to eat too. ;)
Hope that you didn't get pecked by the swan? Nice of you to give it a helping hand! :)
PD
While I was chatting with a friend on the phone, I saw a red-tailed hawk fly towards and land on a branch in my neighbor's back yard. Watched it for about half an hour. It was a juvie (didn't have its red tail yet). It was looking around (intently) at their yard. At the end, it spotted something and flew off. I couldn't see it well there due to terracing, but did see its wing appear (spread wide) at one point and then it flew off out of view. I did see it clutching something--a chippie I believe. Good job little juvie!
PD
Corvids in need - crow and jackdaws.
Quote from: steve ridgway on December 12, 2023, 11:45:13 PMCorvids in need - crow and jackdaws.
In need? Problems with food resources?
I haven't seen a jackdaw before. Lots of crows in my area.
PD
Quote from: steve ridgway on December 13, 2023, 09:03:10 AMIn need of cake ;) .
Sorry, but I don't know what you are referring to. :( Why cake?
PD
Oh it's just that we were sat outside a cafe yesterday with all these birds getting nearer and nearer to get the crumbs. One of the jackdaws very nearly ate out of my wife's hand.
Quote from: steve ridgway on December 13, 2023, 09:14:15 AMOh it's just that we were sat outside a cafe yesterday with all these birds getting nearer and nearer to get the crumbs. One of the jackdaws very nearly ate out of my wife's hand.
lol :) Hopefully they are also eating some healthier food?
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on December 13, 2023, 09:33:19 AMHopefully they are also eating some healthier food?
It was in a large country estate so plenty of natural food around.
Some birds on the river today. From searching the web I think the first pair, which were diving under the surface, were Goosander, and the second pair, which were very nervous and kept flying off, were Eurasian Teal.
Pigeons in the garden today.
Quote from: steve ridgway on January 16, 2024, 04:28:26 AMPigeons in the garden today.
Very pretty! This one is common in our country--often seen in cities in large numbers. https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Rock_Pigeon/
I used to confuse them with mourning doves which I often see in my neck of the woods. Their call is very distinctive.
A few days ago, I went out to take a walk and could hear a red-tailed hawk nearby. It was somewhere high up in a pine tree I think. It was playing hide and seek with me. As soon as I turned away (giving up on seeing it), it would make one of its call again. That happened about three times 'til I eventually gave up!
PD
p.s. Do you have any feeders up in your yard (if you have one--sorry, not certain whether you live in a house or in an apartment)?
Oh yes, we have rock pigeons but I believe these were the domestic pigeons descended from those. The next door neighbours have feeders so the smaller birds go there and we look after the larger ones.
Quote from: steve ridgway on January 16, 2024, 05:30:12 AMOh yes, we have rock pigeons but I believe these were the domestic pigeons descended from those. The next door neighbours have feeders so the smaller birds go there and we look after the larger ones.
Interesting to read (on Cornell's website) that apparently rock pigeons were introduced to North America from Europe in the early 1600's.
PD
LOL according to the Journal of the Experimental Analysis of Behavior (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1334394/)
Pigeons' discrimination of paintings by Monet and Picasso
Abstract
Pigeons successfully learned to discriminate color slides of paintings by Monet and Picasso. Following this training, they discriminated novel paintings by Monet and Picasso that had never been presented during the discrimination training. Furthermore, they showed generalization from Monet's to Cezanne's and Renoir's paintings or from Picasso's to Braque's and Matisse's paintings. These results suggest that pigeons' behavior can be controlled by complex visual stimuli in ways that suggest categorization. Upside-down images of Monet's paintings disrupted the discrimination, whereas inverted images of Picasso's did not. This result may indicate that the pigeons' behavior was controlled by objects depicted in impressionists' paintings but was not controlled by objects in cubists' paintings.
Snapped this Rose-ringed Parakeet after feeding the crows on our walk this morning.
Quote from: steve ridgway on January 19, 2024, 07:34:06 AMSnapped this Rose-ringed Parakeet after feeding the crows on our walk this morning.
Pretty cool! Strange to see it though so far north though!
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on January 19, 2024, 09:00:15 AMPretty cool! Strange to see it though so far north though!
PD
We only started seeing the parakeets here a few years ago but they've been increasing in numbers and spreading further. They're quite easy to spot due to the noise :D .
Came upon a Blue Heron while walking the pups this morning.
thumbnail (1).jpg
Quote from: Szykneij on February 06, 2024, 09:38:41 AMCame upon a Blue Heron while walking the pups this morning.
thumbnail (1).jpg
Excellent! About how far away were you from it and what did you use to take the photo?
PD
p.s. I've given up trying to take photos of birds (I have an old iPhone). :(
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on February 06, 2024, 11:41:48 AMExcellent! About how far away were you from it and what did you use to take the photo?
PD
p.s. I've given up trying to take photos of birds (I have an old iPhone). :(
I used my iphone and was reasonably close, but up a river bank. Luckily, my dogs were quiet so the heron didn't feel threatened.
Quote from: Szykneij on February 06, 2024, 12:12:49 PMI used my iphone and was reasonably close, but up a river bank. Luckily, my dogs were quiet so the heron didn't feel threatened.
Which iPhone version do you have (if I might ask)?
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on February 06, 2024, 12:34:30 PMWhich iPhone version do you have (if I might ask)?
PD
My phone is old, too. It's the iphone XR, which I think came out right before the iphone 11.
Quote from: Szykneij on February 06, 2024, 04:43:56 PMMy phone is old, too. It's the iphone XR, which I think came out right before the iphone 11.
lol Oh, the joys of technology (pros and cons plus moolah)!
PD
This story made me laugh/cry:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BT8P65u1Nvk
[Can't post the video here.]
PD
Been checking in on the red-tailed hawks at Cornell. Big Red laid four eggs this year; alas, only two out of the four eggs hatched. Hadn't seen that one happen before. Perhaps it might be due in part to her getting up there in years? She's now about 21 years old.
Happily, though, the two chicks (the "N's" as this round are known) are doing well (knock on wood).
PD
I just saw a beautiful green woodpecker (picus viridis) in the back garden but before I could get a phone to try a picture it flew away. They are not that rare but not that common either.
I recently grabbed the Merlin app for my phone and it really works well. I was taking a walk yesterday morning and recorded like 30 seconds and it identified four different birds. It is free with no BS run by Cornell. If you're curious give it a shot.
It sounds like most of you way ahead of the learning curve from where I am though! :laugh:
Quote from: Jo498 on May 28, 2024, 03:48:09 AMI just saw a beautiful green woodpecker (picus viridis) in the back garden but before I could get a phone to try a picture it flew away. They are not that rare but not that common either.
Oooh! What a cool-looking bird! Hopefully, it will visit your garden more often. :)
Quote from: DavidW on May 28, 2024, 07:23:18 AMI recently grabbed the Merlin app for my phone and it really works well. I was taking a walk yesterday morning and recorded like 30 seconds and it identified four different birds. It is free with no BS run by Cornell. If you're curious give it a shot.
It sounds like most of you way ahead of the learning curve from where I am though! :laugh:
That's one of the reasons why I keep on yapping on about Cornell! ;D ;) I've had the Merlin app for I'm not sure how many years now--and still use it (slow learner re bird calls and IDing them, but I'm getting a bit better). :) My phone is fairly old and so I can't upgrade it and thereby be able to use some of the newer features. The Cornell folks (cornellbirds@cornell.edu) very kindly (and swiftly) replied to an email that I sent them a few years ago (with photos) asking as to what I had seen in my area. One of the features of that app is that you can download packages of different areas (say that you are on vacation) and want to know what birds are common in that area and narrow down what you are most likely seeing/hearing.
Their website is also very handy: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/news/
Plus, they host various bird cams...the pond one is particularly cool (especially in the morning and it's on campus. They fill up the bird feeders there every morning) and the red tailed hawk nest cams (including live chat with mods, if you're interested to do so, so that you can learn about the birds).
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on May 28, 2024, 08:45:28 AMOooh! What a cool-looking bird! Hopefully, it will visit your garden more often. :)
I have seen ones before and even got pictures but they didn't turn out that well because they are green and camouflaged quite well despite the red head.
They are not exactly rare although the "great spotted woodpecker" is more common. Apparently the green ones rarely "knock" at trees to get insects from the bark but mostly eat ants from the ground or anthills.
As for bird calls I went on a birdcall walk 20 years ago but I don't remember anything.
Yesterday or on sunday there was a cuckoo or more than one really going crazy and cuckooing all the time while I walked through the fields, still pretty close to the village.
(There's a superstition/saying here that if one has money in the pocket on hearing the cuckoo's call for the first time in a year one will never lack money for the rest of the year ;) But it wasn't the first one that spring and I didn't have money on me.)
Quote from: Jo498 on May 28, 2024, 09:19:06 AMI have seen ones before and even got pictures but they didn't turn out that well because they are green and camouflaged quite well despite the red head.
They are not exactly rare although the "great spotted woodpecker" is more common. Apparently the green ones rarely "knock" at trees to get insects from the bark but mostly eat ants from the ground or anthills.
As for bird calls I went on a birdcall walk 20 years ago but I don't remember anything.
Yesterday or on sunday there was a cuckoo or more than one really going crazy and cuckooing all the time while I walked through the fields, still pretty close to the village.
(There's a superstition/saying here that if one has money in the pocket on hearing the cuckoo's call for the first time in a year one will never lack money for the rest of the year ;) But it wasn't the first one that spring and I didn't have money on me.)
If I'm not out every day walking around (and listening), there are certain calls that I can get confused ("Which bird? Is it this or that?").
And, I bet that you had at least a 10 cent coin in your pocket when you heard the first cuckoo of the year. ;)
PD
I realized that I hadn't checked up lately on this year's latest red-tailed hawk chicks at Cornell. Big Red and Arthur had had two hawk chicks this year (four eggs laid but two of them didn't hatch). Sadly, I found out today that N1 had died (They think due to some illness). That was around the 4th or 5th of August. Then I found out that the other hawk chick (N2) had earlier flown into one of the glass windows at Cornell (This was in late July.)! :'(
First time since I've started following BR's and Arthur's yearly families that none of the chicks made it through their first year. Note: It's harder to follow them once wintertime comes around--and we can only do that due to the kindness and dedication of some very special birders who regularly try and locate the adults (and keep an eye out for any juvies in the area too).
PD
I just got back from a few weeks in Maine. While there, I came across a good number of seabirds and was wishing I had something better than my cell phone to capture some pictures. Luckily, I was able to buy an old, but functional, Kodak digital camera at a flea market to take these shots of a blue heron and egret.
Egret
Some good news! Big Red and her partner Arthur (the red-tailed hawks at Cornell) have had three chicks this year. She laid three eggs and the third one hatched today. :) They're the "O's" [O1 is the first born, etc.]. You can watch a live cam (two different views too). Just type in something along the lines of Cornell and hawk cam. Keeping my fingers crossed for the little ones.
K
Oh, no! O3 apparently died later in the day that it hatched. Not certain why:
"https://www.allaboutbirds.org/cams/sad-news-red-tailed-hawk-chick-dies-shortly-after-hatching/
K
Enjoying watching the two O's mature; they are very close to fledging. It's awesome to see them flapercizing and hopping around. Wish that I had wings.
K
Woohoo! O2 just fledged! :)
K
Quote from: DavidW on May 28, 2024, 07:23:18 AMI recently grabbed the Merlin app for my phone and it really works well. I was taking a walk yesterday morning and recorded like 30 seconds and it identified four different birds. It is free with no BS run by Cornell. If you're curious give it a shot.
It sounds like most of you way ahead of the learning curve from where I am though! :laugh:
Curious about the birds I was hearing on my morning walks, I downloaded it and in just the five days I've been using it it's identified:
American Barn Owl (ra)
Blue Jay
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher
Carolina Wren
Eastern Bluebird
Eastern Towhee
Eastern Wood-Pewee (ra)
House Sparrow
Mississippi Kite
Northern Cardinal
Northern Mockingbird
Purple Martin
Tufted Titmouse
White-eyed Vireo
The ones with (ra) after them are rare, according to the app.
Quote from: Wendell_E on June 29, 2025, 03:37:19 AMCurious about the birds I was hearing on my morning walks, I downloaded it and in just the five days I've been using it it's identified:
American Barn Owl (ra)
Blue Jay
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher
Carolina Wren
Eastern Bluebird
Eastern Towhee
Eastern Wood-Pewee (ra)
House Sparrow
Mississippi Kite
Northern Cardinal
Northern Mockingbird
Purple Martin
Tufted Titmouse
White-eyed Vireo
The ones with (ra) after them are rare, according to the app.
Excellent!
I've really enjoyed and appreciated the interactions that I've had with the folks from Cornell. They've been kind enough to answer a few questions for me. Their websites are also very helpful. All About Birds is very helpful to learn more about various birds. You can do things like compare species to understand the differences between them and also to aid in identifying which bird that you saw/heard.
K
I look at birds (and wildlife in general) a good bit. Today's excursion featured Cedar Waxwings.
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/535151376/large.jpg)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/535151307/large.jpg)
Quote from: owlice on July 11, 2025, 05:40:04 PMI look at birds (and wildlife in general) a good bit. Today's excursion featured Cedar Waxwings.
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/535151376/large.jpg)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/535151307/large.jpg)
Oh, cool! Neat looking birds. I don't believe that I've ever seen them before.
K
Quote from: Kalevala on July 11, 2025, 05:56:58 PMOh, cool! Neat looking birds. I don't believe that I've ever seen them before.
K
I usually hear them before I see them. I realized last year that through aging, I will eventually lose the ability to hear them, as their calls are high-pitched. :( When that time comes, at least I'll have Merlin to detect their calls so I know to look for them.
I hope someday to see Bohemian Waxwings, which look like larger versions of Cedar Waxwings.
Yesterday's excursion including more Cedar Waxwings than I have ever seen in one day, to the point that I stopped photographing them -- they really were *everywhere*! But there were also Northern Flickers (yellow-shafted), Song Sparrows, Yellow Warblers, and other not-waxwings about.
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/535509608/original.jpg)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/535507870/original.jpg)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/535509451/original.jpg)
What fabulous photos. Thanks for posting them.
On our recent trip to Malvern we had the good fortune to see red kites hunting the fields between the Malvern Hills and Ledbury. They seem to be more common locally than ever before.
My wife has been working hard at attracting a variety of birds to our garden, and she's had great success in the last year: reed buntings, goldfinches, long-tailed tits, and siskins being among the previously unseen little chaps. The only photos I have are of the LTTs.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 13, 2025, 10:28:36 AMOn our recent trip to Malvern we had the good fortune to see red kites hunting the fields between the Malvern Hills and Ledbury. They seem to be more common locally than ever before.
My wife has been working hard at attracting a variety of birds to our garden, and she's had great success in the last year: reed buntings, goldfinches, long-tailed tits, and siskins being among the previously unseen little chaps. The only photos I have are of the LTTs.
Oh, how lovely! All of it -- red kites, new birds, and a photo of LTTs! (Also lovely to see you again, Elgarian. :) )
I have not seen reed buntings; maybe someday. I can supply photos of a European Goldfinch (much fancier than our American Goldfinch!) and a Red Kite, however; I saw both last year when I went wildlifeing after a conference. I often manage to get in a little wildlifeing before/during/after meetings/conferences, though that usually means getting up early, something that is difficult for this night owl.
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/452235741/original.jpeg)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/451426984/original.jpeg)
Quote from: owlice on July 13, 2025, 12:02:10 PMOh, how lovely! All of it -- red kites, new birds, and a photo of LTTs! (Also lovely to see you again, Elgarian. :) )
I have not seen reed buntings; maybe someday. I can supply photos of a European Goldfinch (much fancier than our American Goldfinch!) and a Red Kite, however; I saw both last year when I went wildlifeing after a conference. I often manage to get in a little wildlifeing before/during/after meetings/conferences, though that usually means getting up early, something that is difficult for this night owl.
Lovely to see you here too, Owlice. It's been a while!
More great photos. Thank you. What always strikes me about the goldfinch, whenever I see one, is astonishment that something so exotic could be in our garden as if it was just any old bird!
I forgot to mention that we had linnets a few weeks ago - that was a first-timer, too. I really must take some photos. Usually I daren't move (to get the camera) when they turn up, in case my movement scares them off.
We also have a semi-resident pheasant with delusions of grandeur. He struts in from the field at the bottom of the garden - sometimes with his family in tow - and I get the feeling he's saying, 'Alright now. Settle down. The main attraction is here.'
I just wondered if I had any reed bunting photos, and I do (though they're a bit blurry)!! Hoorah.
I always imagine that the males look as if they're on their way to a formal dinner somewhere.
Quote from: owlice on July 13, 2025, 12:02:10 PM(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/451426984/original.jpeg)
This is a stupendous view, by the way.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 13, 2025, 12:21:56 PMLovely to see you here too, Owlice. It's been a while!
Far too long! It's that "time" thing -- never enough of it, alas!
QuoteWhat always strikes me about the goldfinch, whenever I see one, is astonishment that something so exotic could be in our garden as if it was just any old bird!
I'm pleased to know you find them exotic-looking, though they are your common goldfinch! They look very exotic to me, but then, my local (male) goldfinches are these:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/535507910/original.jpg)
Just little yellow birds, and only bright yellow in breeding season. Out west, there are also Lesser Goldfinches (so littler yellow/yellowish birds):
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/178665812/original.jpeg)
QuoteI forgot to mention that we had linnets a few weeks ago - that was a first-timer, too. I really must take some photos. Usually I daren't move (to get the camera) when they turn up, in case my movement scares them off.
I have only a few times seen linnets, and never near. How lovely to have them visiting you!
QuoteWe also have a semi-resident pheasant with delusions of grandeur. He struts in from the field at the bottom of the garden - sometimes with his family in tow - and I get the feeling he's saying, 'Alright now. Settle down. The main attraction is here.'
Well, he's not wrong...! What gorgeous birds they are!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 13, 2025, 12:27:50 PMI just wondered if I had any reed bunting photos, and I do (though they're a bit blurry)!! Hoorah.
I always imagine that the males look as if they're on their way to a formal dinner somewhere.
SO CUTE!! Thanks for sharing!!
Yesterday, it was mostly sparrow day: Song, Vesper, and Savannah. Canada Geese with goslings, too, some usual gulls, and also Killdeer with at least four a
dorable little peeps. The location was quiet, surprisingly quiet; not even ducks, save a lone Mallard way far away.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 13, 2025, 12:32:47 PMThis is a stupendous view, by the way.
Thank you. He was posing! :laugh:
Quote from: owlice on July 13, 2025, 12:02:10 PMI have not seen reed buntings; maybe someday. I can supply photos of a European Goldfinch (much fancier than our American Goldfinch!) and a Red Kite, however; I saw both last year when I went wildlifeing after a conference.
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/451426984/original.jpeg)
Great picture. I see them (Roter Milan in German) frequently here on walks but hardly ever so close and clear. Usually only soaring above and when one is perching or flying by closely, it's always too fast for me, even if I had a device ready for taking a foto.
I am also not good enough at ID, I am pretty sure when they are up in the air because of the reddish hue and the characteristically forked tail but close they look more light brown than "red" and there are several other local birds that look somewhat similar.
Quote from: owlice on July 14, 2025, 09:46:04 AMI'm pleased to know you find them exotic-looking, though they are your common goldfinch!
Common by name but not by nature. They are finches from Mars.
QuoteThey look very exotic to me, but then, my local (male) goldfinches are these:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/535507910/original.jpg)
Just little yellow birds, and only bright yellow in breeding season.
Oh but wow. That little chap brings a whole new meaning to the word 'yellow'. You think you know yellow, and then you see
him....
Here's Mrs Pheasant, giving me the cold shoulder.
Earlier in the year, once the youngsters were able to get out and about, Mr and Mrs Pheasant used to parade them, 6 or 7 of them, all in a line back and forth along the field at the bottom of our garden. Proud as peacocks - sorry! pheasants - they were. They knew we were watching.
Quote from: owlice on July 14, 2025, 09:56:29 AMThank you. He was posing! :laugh:
I wish I had a comparable image to show you, but must be content with a story.
A few weeks ago I called at a little pool near the west Lancashire coast to look at some nesting terns, and saw them easily enough. But then, walking just a few metres away from me, in the mud, just begging to be photographed, was an Avocet. Now look, you just
don't get avocets in Lancashire. You just don't. Or rather, you
didn't. You do now. I'd never seen an avocet before. Of course I had no camera with me ...
So I walked back to the car and glanced across to the other side of the road. There, with no need of binoculars for a good view, was a Little Egret. But you don't get little egrets in West Lancashire. You just don't. Well, you do now. I'd never seen a little egret before either. And I still had no camera.
I suppose there are places where these are common, everyday waders? But
here?
Quote from: owlice on July 11, 2025, 05:40:04 PMI look at birds (and wildlife in general) a good bit. Today's excursion featured Cedar Waxwings.
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/535151376/large.jpg)
Never mind goldfinches. Aren't Cedar Waxwings from Mars also?
Great pics,
@owlice! Particularly this one which I find completely enchanting.
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/535151307/large.jpg)
Lovely reading through the last two pages of this thread. :)
Quote from: Jo498 on July 14, 2025, 10:37:45 AMGreat picture. I see them (Roter Milan in German) frequently here on walks but hardly ever so close and clear. Usually only soaring above and when one is perching or flying by closely, it's always too fast for me, even if I had a device ready for taking a foto.
I am also not good enough at ID, I am pretty sure when they are up in the air because of the reddish hue and the characteristically forked tail but close they look more light brown than "red" and there are several other local birds that look somewhat similar.
Thank you. And yes! I too usually see them in flight, and yes, they are definitely "pretty sure" to ID as they fly. They are so beautiful!
I usually have a camera with me when I'm out wildlifeing; I take photos so I can ID the bird (or whatever) later, to remember that I've seen it, or both. I use iNaturalist (inaturalist.org) to help with identifying what I've seen. I take a lot of very bad photos, but every once in a while, a bird will pose nicely, as this Red Kite did; this Black-winged Kite also posed nicely, which really thrilled me.
blackwingedkite.jpg
I think kites look very elegant, and some of them even have a "smoky eye" thing going on, as though they are wearing makeup! :laugh:
Hmmm... don't know why the photo appeared twice, and I don't know how to fix it, alas!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 14, 2025, 11:39:50 AMHere's Mrs Pheasant, giving me the cold shoulder.
Gorgeous bird; every feather a small miracle of its own! I'm often astonished at the beauty of individual feathers, and then to have them all together on one bird -- WOW!
Quote from: Elgarian ReduxNow look, you just don't get avocets in Lancashire. You just don't. Or rather, you didn't. You do now. I'd never seen an avocet before. Of course I had no camera with me ...
So I walked back to the car and glanced across to the other side of the road. There, with no need of binoculars for a good view, was a Little Egret. But you don't get little egrets in West Lancashire. You just don't. Well, you do now. I'd never seen a little egret before either. And I still had no camera.
Dear Elgarian, the solution is that you must not leave the house, nor even your kitchen, without a camera!!
What fortunate sightings!!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 14, 2025, 12:30:05 PMNever mind goldfinches. Aren't Cedar Waxwings from Mars also?
It's as though they are painted, very carefully and very precisely. The terminal tail band is usually yellow, though occasionally it can be orange, not that I have any good pictures of an orange band, so I give you this instead:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/306340906/original.jpeg)
Quote from: Iota on July 14, 2025, 12:59:20 PMGreat pics, @owlice! Particularly this one which I find completely enchanting.
That's so kind; thank you!
Sparrow day of a couple of days ago turned out to be all Savannah in the camera all the time (~~~ sigh ~~~), though Song and Vesper were definitely heard. Not a single Vesper captured!
But in looking at photos from another recent outing, I was surprised (delighted!!) to find that the camera had captured a nest with peeps in it that I had not seen at all when taking the photo.
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/534731103/original.jpg)
Quote from: owlice on July 15, 2025, 09:24:06 AMSparrow day of a couple of days ago turned out to be all Savannah in the camera all the time (~~~ sigh ~~~), though Song and Vesper were definitely heard. Not a single Vesper captured!
But in looking at photos from another recent outing, I was surprised (delighted!!) to find that the camera had captured a nest with peeps in it that I had not seen at all when taking the photo.
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/534731103/original.jpg)
What kind of camera do you use?
K
Quote from: owlice on July 15, 2025, 09:09:25 AMIt's as though they are painted, very carefully and very precisely. The terminal tail band is usually yellow, though occasionally it can be orange, not that I have any good pictures of an orange band, so I give you this instead:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/306340906/original.jpeg)
And I'll accept it gratefully. Spectacular photo, and possibly weirder than a goldfinch.
Quote from: owlice on July 15, 2025, 08:47:28 AMThank you. And yes! I too usually see them in flight, and yes, they are definitely "pretty sure" to ID as they fly. They are so beautiful!
I usually have a camera with me when I'm out wildlifeing; I take photos so I can ID the bird (or whatever) later, to remember that I've seen it, or both. I use iNaturalist (inaturalist.org) to help with identifying what I've seen. I take a lot of very bad photos, but every once in a while, a bird will pose nicely, as this Red Kite did; this Black-winged Kite also posed nicely, which really thrilled me.
blackwingedkite.jpg
I think kites look very elegant, and some of them even have a "smoky eye" thing going on, as though they are wearing makeup! :laugh:
These are magnificent photos, but I'm running out of superlatives.
Quote from: owlice on July 15, 2025, 08:54:58 AMDear Elgarian, the solution is that you must not leave the house, nor even your kitchen, without a camera!!
I know this! I know this! I mean, it's not as if I have a heap of gear to carry around. I just have a little Panasonic thing that slips easily into my pocket. I will do better!
Quote from: owlice on July 15, 2025, 09:09:25 AMIt's as though they are painted, very carefully and very precisely. The terminal tail band is usually yellow, though occasionally it can be orange, not that I have any good pictures of an orange band, so I give you this instead:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/306340906/original.jpeg)
I'm just looking long at this fellow. Do you suppose he leads a double life, partly as a waxwing, and partly as a highwayman?
Quote from: owlice on July 15, 2025, 09:24:06 AM(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/534731103/original.jpg)
Oh Crikey. What a gorgeous little slice of life. And perfectly composed.
Quote from: Kalevala on July 15, 2025, 09:29:48 AMWhat kind of camera do you use?
K
Kalevala, I use what is commonly called a bridge camera (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bridge_camera), as I don't want to deal with changing/carrying around different lenses. The one I use most often is a Nikon Coolpix P900, which is no longer manufactured. I wanted something with a big zoom, and this camera offers that. It's almost perfect, and likely would be exactly perfect if I learned more about how to use it!
I also have its immediate successor, the P950 (which is still made), a purchase of necessity but I'll spare you that story.
Two additional successors have since been released, the P1000 (now apparently discontinued) and the P1100 (still made).
I love the P900. The P950 has some additional improvements (and "improvements"), but I prefer the 900. The 900 offers built-in GPS; every image is geotagged automatically by the camera. (That feature can be turned off.) I love this! I know exactly where and when each image was taken.
The P900 also fits comfortably in my hand, which is important given that I might have the camera in hand for 10 hours or more a day for multiple days if I'm somewhere just for wildlife.
One downside -- for others, not for me -- is the 900 does not shoot in RAW; it shoots only in JPEG. Its images are not going to be quite as fine as those from more expensive RAW-shooting cameras. I'm not a photographer, though, and take pics for fun only, so I'm okay with JPEG. I wouldn't know what to do with RAW images anyway, AND they take up a lot more room, too.
The P950 shoots in RAW and/or in JPEG, and like a lot of newer cameras, uses a phone app called SnapBridge for geotagging, so you have to always have a working phone with you and always ensure SnapBridge and the camera are synced/communicating to get geotagging. I hate this! It usually works, other people use it just fine, and I have used it, too, but ... I like having GPS on the camera itself.
The 950 is also just a little bit bigger and just a little bit heavier than the 900, and that causes me/my hand pain over time.
It does a better job with video, though, than the 900, as the focus adjusts while shooting video.
Both cameras like to (auto)focus on vegetation, though, rather than the tiny creature next to or in front of or behind that vegetation (maddening!!!), so on that score, they are even!
Wow, that's a long answer... sorry!!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 15, 2025, 10:01:46 AMThese are magnificent photos, but I'm running out of superlatives.
I am delighted you like them! You surely know that I've been posting the best of what I've got, and not the average, yes? I have plenty of terrible pics, so many that I no longer subscribe to the Crap wildlife photography (https://www.boredpanda.com/crap-wildlife-photography/) group -- I make my own, almost every day!
I've been spending a lot of my retirement just walking around looking at stuff and taking photos of some of it. Occasionally, things work out well. Other times,
many times, I get things like this Northern Cardinal:
Quote from: owlice on July 15, 2025, 01:08:11 PMI am delighted you like them! You surely know that I've been posting the best of what I've got, and not the average, yes? I have plenty of terrible pics, so many that I no longer subscribe to the Crap wildlife photography (https://www.boredpanda.com/crap-wildlife-photography/) group -- I make my own, almost every day!
I've been spending a lot of my retirement just walking around looking at stuff and taking photos of some of it. Occasionally, things work out well. Other times, many times, I get things like this:
Yes, but imagine what was in Beethoven's waste paper basket.
Somebody said, somewhere, that artists mustn't be judged by their worst work, or even by some weird estimate of average, but by their
best work. That makes sense to me. So I continue to boggle at your photos, and congratulate.
A footnote to the little egret story. One of my daughters lives not far from the marshy area where I saw the egret and the avocet, and drives past it almost every day. When I told her what I'd seen, she looked puzzled. 'I see 'em every day,' she said. 'I never mentioned it because I thought they were common!'
Well, I mean, y'know ...
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 15, 2025, 10:19:08 AMOh Crikey. What a gorgeous little slice of life. And perfectly composed.
Thank you; you are too generous! They are Eastern Kingbirds; I should have included the ID in the post. (Oh my... and in my previous, which I will fix now.)
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 15, 2025, 01:18:56 PMA footnote to the little egret story. One of my daughters lives not far from the marshy area where I saw the egret and the avocet, and drives past it almost every day. When I told her what I'd seen, she looked puzzled. 'I see 'em every day,' she said. 'I never mentioned it because I thought they were common!'
Well, I mean, y'know ...
Ah! That's lovely, and now you know that you can see them every day, too, if you wish... and capture them with the camera you will slip into your pocket!!
Negative evidence is as important as positive evidence, right? So ... we went down to walk by the river this afternoon, armed to the teeth with my little Panasonic TZ70 camera - following the advice of
@owlice to Always Be Prepared. Perhaps we'd see a kingfisher? Some exotic type of duck? Oystercatchers? All very reasonable prospects. Off we went.
The photos give an impression of our progress. The sky was full of sand martins, but they won't stop and pose, will they? There were rooks and black-headed gulls in a distant field. But nothing exciting to see, birdwise, so we sat on the bank and watched the river flow. A poor afternoon for birds, but still good for the soul.
Does anyone know anything about nestboxes? Our nestbox (see photo) has attracted a pair of great tits two years in a row. There's great activity for several weeks, they fly in and out, taking food in and flying out again. Then they go, and all activity ceases. Last year there were no dead nestlings, no eggs even, in the box. We haven't looked inside yet, this year. But that means two failed nests on two successive years. Is that unusual, would you say?
My late father used to build nestboxes like the one shown, there are birder/nature protection clubs in Germany who build them, hang them and at least some systematically evaluate if they are nested in and by which birds, thus contributing to stats on local birds. But I have no more specific knowledge about them, as where to put them and which kinds of birds to expect.
Quote from: owlice on July 15, 2025, 12:39:08 PM[snip] Wow, that's a long answer... sorry!!
Nonetheless a very interesting one!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 16, 2025, 10:02:45 AMDoes anyone know anything about nestboxes? Our nestbox (see photo) has attracted a pair of great tits two years in a row. There's great activity for several weeks, they fly in and out, taking food in and flying out again. Then they go, and all activity ceases. Last year there were no dead nestlings, no eggs even, in the box. We haven't looked inside yet, this year. But that means two failed nests on two successive years. Is that unusual, would you say?
Sounds to me like they did make a nest and had at least one chick (flying in with food for it/them). No idea how long it takes for the chicks to mature and fly. Hopefully a predator didn't get in there.
K
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 16, 2025, 09:55:34 AMNegative evidence is as important as positive evidence, right? So ... we went down to walk by the river this afternoon, armed to the teeth with my little Panasonic TZ70 camera - following the advice of @owlice to Always Be Prepared. Perhaps we'd see a kingfisher? Some exotic type of duck? Oystercatchers? All very reasonable prospects. Off we went.
The photos give an impression of our progress. The sky was full of sand martins, but they won't stop and pose, will they? There were rooks and black-headed gulls in a distant field. But nothing exciting to see, birdwise, so we sat on the bank and watched the river flow. A poor afternoon for birds, but still good for the soul.
A beautiful outing, even though devoid of near-to-you birds! And, as I listen to the rain that has been, is, and will be falling where I am, I envy you the lovely day. What glorious weather you had for your walk! And you have captured that gorgeous day, and so the memory of it, with your camera. How fortunate that you were armed with your little Panasonic!
You posit "The sky was full of sand martins, but they won't stop and pose, will they?" Well, sometimes they might. One late afternoon in May, I walked again on the boardwalks of a favorite park and for the first time, saw not only the usual multitudes of Tree Swallows soaring above, but also Barn Swallows and Bank Swallows (which is what we call what are Sand Martins to you). None of them stopped to pose; I resolved to go the next day to another location where I had, in a previous year, seen Bank Swallows perching.
And so I went, and yes, there were Bank Swallows galore, and some even perching... for a second or fraction thereof. My only photo -- only! -- of them that early evening was this one:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/513196064/original.jpg)
If I had a facepalm emoji handy, I would put it here.
The Tree Swallows were more cooperative:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/513196027/original.jpg)
And even the Barn Swallows -- for all three species were at this location, too -- occasionally plopped down, though they might not have posed when they did:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/513196536/large.jpg)
And...
and!... a little Vesper Sparrow appeared as well!
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/513196326/original.jpg)
And so did the usual insane number of Savannah Sparrows. So many! Also various ducks and water birds, and even a warbler. It is very rare for me to go out to look for a particular bird, because that way so often lies disappointment, and why be disappointed when there are so many other interesting and beautiful things to see?
Quote from: Kalevala on July 16, 2025, 11:12:43 AMSounds to me like they did make a nest and had at least one chick (flying in with food for it/them).
If they had, I'd expect there to be be bits of eggshell in the nest. But there was no indication that any eggs (or egg) had ever been there. We worked out a hypothesis that the female was trying to lay, and the male kept bringing food to her. But she never managed it, and so eventually they cleared off.
Maybe?
Quote from: owlice on July 16, 2025, 11:51:24 AMA beautiful outing, even though devoid of near-to-you birds! And, as I listen to the rain that has been, is, and will be falling where I am, I envy you the lovely day. What glorious weather you had for your walk! And you have captured that gorgeous day, and so the memory of it, with your camera. How fortunate that you were armed with your little Panasonic!
Exactly.Your recommendation could not have been more timely.
QuoteYou posit "The sky was full of sand martins, but they won't stop and pose, will they?" Well, sometimes they might. One late afternoon in May, I walked again on the boardwalks of a favorite park and for the first time, saw not only the usual multitudes of Tree Swallows soaring above, but also Barn Swallows and Bank Swallows (which is what we call what are Sand Martins to you). None of them stopped to pose; I resolved to go the next day to another location where I had, in a previous year, seen Bank Swallows perching.
And so I went, and yes, there were Bank Swallows galore, and some even perching... for a second or fraction thereof. My only photo -- only! -- of them that early evening was this one:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/513196064/original.jpg)
Having just spent an afternoon watching sand martins/bank swallows pretending to be never-stopping jet aircraft, I can only boggle at this image.
QuoteThe Tree Swallows were more cooperative:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/513196027/original.jpg)
My goodness. What a fantastic capture of character.
QuoteAnd even the Barn Swallows -- for all three species were at this location, too -- occasionally plopped down, though they might not have posed when they did:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/513196536/large.jpg)
And... and!... a little Vesper Sparrow appeared as well!
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/513196326/original.jpg)
And so did the usual insane number of Savannah Sparrows. So many! Also various ducks and water birds, and even a warbler. It is very rare for me to go out to look for a particular bird, because that way so often lies disappointment, and why be disappointed when there are so many other interesting and beautiful things to see?
You have more interesting sparrows than we have. House sparrow, and tree sparrow (if you're lucky), pretty much sums it up. The prevalence of dunnocks (even though not sparrows) does add a bit of variety to the collections of 'little brown birds' we get though.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 16, 2025, 12:51:05 PMYou have more interesting sparrows than we have. House sparrow, and tree sparrow (if you're lucky), pretty much sums it up. The prevalence of dunnocks (even though not sparrows) does add a bit of variety to the collections of 'little brown birds' we get though.
Well, this is news to me! I had never once thought about how many species of sparrows might be in the UK, and am astonished to learn there are only two! For a country that gave the US its House Sparrow, I can scarcely believe it has such scarcity of sparrow.
The US has such an abundance of sparrows, it would be embarrassing... if many of them didn't look almost exactly alike; instead, it is sometimes maddening. If we leave out the 22 species of birds that are sparrows-but-not-called-sparrows and the sparrow cross-breeds, we still have 37 sparrows that are called sparrows rather than bunting, junco, or towhee. We not only have a Lark Sparrow, we have a sparrow called a Lark Bunting (which I hope to see someday).
But some sparrows, whether called sparrow, bunting, towhee, or junco, are not LBBs/LBJs and so are more readily identified. Thank goodness!!
Black-throated Sparrow, Arizona
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/336442175/original.jpeg)
Spotted Towhee, Washington (the state, not the city)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/252040119/original.jpeg)
Dark-eyed Junco, my backyard
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/114141768/original.jpg)
(I love them all!)
Now to look up dunnocks...
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 16, 2025, 12:36:18 PMIf they had, I'd expect there to be be bits of eggshell in the nest. But there was no indication that any eggs (or egg) had ever been there. We worked out a hypothesis that the female was trying to lay, and the male kept bringing food to her. But she never managed it, and so eventually they cleared off.
Maybe?
From what I understand, birds normally remove eggshells from their nests. I've also seen (via Cornell's hawk cam) the female eating some of the shell.
K
Quote from: Kalevala on July 17, 2025, 04:08:34 AMFrom what I understand, birds normally remove eggshells from their nests. I've also seen (via Cornell's hawk cam) the female eating some of the shell.
K
I didn't know that. Thank you
very much. So you may be right that there was perhaps a chick or two, even though we never saw one emerge. My wife especially will be cheered up by this possibility.
Quote from: owlice on July 16, 2025, 09:37:12 PMWell, this is news to me! I had never once thought about how many species of sparrows might be in the UK, and am astonished to learn there are only two! For a country that gave the US its House Sparrow, I can scarcely believe it has such scarcity of sparrow.
The US has such an abundance of sparrows, it would be embarrassing... if many of them didn't look almost exactly alike; instead, it is sometimes maddening. If we leave out the 22 species of birds that are sparrows-but-not-called-sparrows and the sparrow cross-breeds, we still have 37 sparrows that are called sparrows rather than bunting, junco, or towhee. We not only have a Lark Sparrow, we have a sparrow called a Lark Bunting (which I hope to see someday).
But some sparrows, whether called sparrow, bunting, towhee, or junco, are not LBBs/LBJs and so are more readily identified. Thank goodness!!
Black-throated Sparrow, Arizona
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/336442175/original.jpeg)
Spotted Towhee, Washington (the state, not the city)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/252040119/original.jpeg)
Dark-eyed Junco, my backyard
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/114141768/original.jpg)
(I love them all!)
1. I never knew there were so many over there.
2. The quality of images here is such that I don't know how to comment sensibly on them except in terms like 'Wow' or 'Gosh' or 'Goodness me', followed by some random number of exclamation marks.
3. Each of those sparrows looks like a bird I would want to know, and have a conversation with.
Quote from: owlice on July 16, 2025, 09:40:19 PMNow to look up dunnocks...
Dunnocks are much overlooked. Shakespeare perpetuated the idea of calling the dunnock a 'hedge-sparrow', a name that clearly leads to misunderstanding.
The dunnocks in our garden are cheery little birds that scuttle about under bushes and, if one is spotted out of the corner of an eye, it can give the impression of a scurrying mouse. Apart from qualifying as 'little brown jobs' they can't be mistaken for sparrows, and so Shakespeare did us no good service in this respect.
I shall attempt to photograph one, if only to prove that I own a camera.
So this morning we took ourselves up into the hills, with spectacular views across to the Pennines, and set off on a favourite walk. And there on a post was a male stonechat, calm as you like. We slowed down. He stayed. Eventually he was only a few feet away. I reached for my camera .... but ....
I hadn't brought my camera! Again!So we stopped and just looked. No need for binoculars. White collar, black head, light red-brown chest. Fabulous. After a few minutes, Mrs Stonechat landed on an adjacent post, and then off they both went. This of course is a 'one that got away' story, but truly I have never had such a close view.
Otherwise the place was devoid of visible birdlife - not a lapwing or a curlew to be seen.
But I really, really have to sort out this camera issue. Apologies,
@owlice. I appreciate you are doing your best to help.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 17, 2025, 05:52:47 AMSo this morning we took ourselves up into the hills, with spectacular views across to the Pennines, and set off on a favourite walk. And there on a post was a male stonechat, calm as you like. We slowed down. He stayed. Eventually he was only a few feet away. I reached for my camera .... but ....
I hadn't brought my camera! Again!
So we stopped and just looked. No need for binoculars. White collar, black head, light red-brown chest. Fabulous. After a few minutes, Mrs Stonechat landed on an adjacent post, and then off they both went. This of course is a 'one that got away' story, but truly I have never had such a close view.
Otherwise the place was devoid of visible birdlife - not a lapwing or a curlew to be seen.
But I really, really have to sort out this camera issue. Apologies, @owlice. I appreciate you are doing your best to help.
Well, maybe focus on the fact that you were able to see those birds up close? :)
K
About to go into a meeting (from the one I'm currently in), but I got you covered for stonechat pics:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/451156788/original.jpeg)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/450889798/original.jpeg)
Quote from: owlice on July 17, 2025, 07:02:12 AMAbout to go into a meeting (from the one I'm currently in), but I got you covered for stonechat pics:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/451156788/original.jpeg)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/450889798/original.jpeg)
Got 'em. Thanks. (Just in the nick of time.)
Quote from: Kalevala on July 17, 2025, 06:52:38 AMWell, maybe focus on the fact that you were able to see those birds up close? :)
K
And I do, and did, I assure you. We revelled in the moment. It was not so much disappointment in the camera's absence, as astonishment at my apparent inability to remember to take it.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 17, 2025, 07:08:47 AMAnd I do, and did, I assure you. We revelled in the moment. It was not so much disappointment in the camera's absence, as astonishment at my apparent inability to remember to take it.
We all have moments like that; you are not alone. ::) :(
K
I am currently thinking (camera ready, in hand) of writing a learned ornithological article with a title something like:
'Why are there no dunnocks in my garden, now?'
I learned a new term today: egg-capping. They think that it doesn't happen often according to this article, but it can happen. https://sora.unm.edu/sites/default/files/journals/auk/v113n03/p0703-p0705.pdf
K
Quote from: Kalevala on July 17, 2025, 10:01:08 AMI learned a new term today: egg-capping. They think that it doesn't happen often according to this article, but it can happen. https://sora.unm.edu/sites/default/files/journals/auk/v113n03/p0703-p0705.pdf
K
But also in that article, I read: 'Most parent birds remove eggshells from the nest
shortly after hatching.'
Thank you again for this. I passed on your comments to my wife, and her eyes lit up with hope!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 17, 2025, 10:12:37 AMBut also in that article, I read: 'Most parent birds remove eggshells from the nest
shortly after hatching.'
Thank you again for this. I passed on your comments to my wife, and her eyes lit up with hope!
I didn't study the article intently (more like skimming parts of it), but found it to be quite interesting. It never occurred to me that a hatched shell could possibly interfere with an unhatched egg.
K
Quote from: Kalevala on July 17, 2025, 10:23:57 AMIt never occurred to me that a hatched shell could possibly interfere with an unhatched egg.
K
Same here.
When the fledglings leave the nest for good - is that a quick process, easily missed? We thought we'd see them learning to fly, but nothing like that happened. There was just a day when there was no activity at the nestbox, and zero activity ever afterwards.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 17, 2025, 12:23:54 PMSame here.
When the fledglings leave the nest for good - is that a quick process, easily missed? We thought we'd see them learning to fly, but nothing like that happened. There was just a day when there was no activity at the nestbox, and zero activity ever afterwards.
Hi. I don't know how often you were watching them (maybe install some sort of bird/wildlife cam?). There's some info here about the species. Sorry, but I am far from an expert. "Nestling period" info sounds like it might be helpful to you. Perhaps get involved in a local bird watching group/society? I think that it's great that you and your wife care so much.
https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Great_Tit/lifehistory
K
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 17, 2025, 05:26:21 AM1. I never knew there were so many over there.
2. The quality of images here is such that I don't know how to comment sensibly on them except in terms like 'Wow' or 'Gosh' or 'Goodness me', followed by some random number of exclamation marks.
3. Each of those sparrows looks like a bird I would want to know, and have a conversation with.
1. I didn't know there were so many over here, either. And that's just in the US; there are also sparrows in most other places on Earth. SO MANY SPARROWS!!
2. You're very kind, and it is the camera. Really! I have often lent my "spare" camera (the P950) to others, and yeah, it's the camera. I could hand you this camera and your pics would require others to buy more exclamation points.... assuming you remembered to take the camera outside. :D
3. The birds look forward to making your acquaintance!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 17, 2025, 05:52:47 AMSo this morning we took ourselves up into the hills, with spectacular views across to the Pennines, and set off on a favourite walk. And there on a post was a male stonechat, calm as you like. We slowed down. He stayed. Eventually he was only a few feet away. I reached for my camera .... but ....
I hadn't brought my camera! Again!
So we stopped and just looked. No need for binoculars. White collar, black head, light red-brown chest. Fabulous. After a few minutes, Mrs Stonechat landed on an adjacent post, and then off they both went. This of course is a 'one that got away' story, but truly I have never had such a close view.
Otherwise the place was devoid of visible birdlife - not a lapwing or a curlew to be seen.
But I really, really have to sort out this camera issue. Apologies, @owlice. I appreciate you are doing your best to help.
This made me lol the first time I read it and every subsequent time, too! :laugh:
Maybe print it out and tape it to the door you use to go outside... ? :D
Your stonechat encounter sounds enchanting. You might remember it all the rest of your life because you
didn't take your camera!
The boardwalks never disappoint.
Bald Eagle (so big!)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/538342910/large.jpg)
Red-winged Blackbird (so noisy!)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/538342561/original.jpg)
Common Yellowthroat (so cute!)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/538342625/large.jpg)
Quote from: Kalevala on July 17, 2025, 06:05:26 PMHi. I don't know how often you were watching them (maybe install some sort of bird/wildlife cam?). There's some info here about the species. Sorry, but I am far from an expert. "Nestling period" info sounds like it might be helpful to you. Perhaps get involved in a local bird watching group/society? I think that it's great that you and your wife care so much.
https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Great_Tit/lifehistory
K
Thanks very much - I shall print out the nesting info. Maybe also add a notice to the nestbox, asking future occupants to be less mysterious.
About the 'caring': whether we like it or not, a different attitude does develop in relation to the birds that visit our garden, compared with those we see in the wild (and yes, I know these are also 'in the wild'. They're not pets!) One can't be completely objective about the pheasant that wanders in as if he owns the place. And because we put up the nestbox, we can't help having a stake in the future of the great tits who choose to use it. I don't think we're sentimental about it, even though we sometimes talk of them as if they were people, for fun.
A few weeks ago we found a pigeon in the garden that was seriously ill - it looked as if it had had the equivalent of a stroke, and couldn't use half of its body. We didn't know what to do, so put some food and water within reach, and left him in case he recovered from whatever it was. His mate stayed nearby, clearly puzzled. She kept going over to him and nudging him, keeping vigil until he quietly died after about half an hour. Even then she couldn't figure out what had happened, and stayed around for another hour or so, as if hopeful of a revival that would never come.
Even though countless events of that kind are happening out of sight, it wasn't possible to watch that episode without feeling sympathy. I think of Blake: 'How do you know but ev'ry Bird that cuts the airy way, Is an immense world of delight, clos'd by your senses five?'
Quote from: owlice on July 17, 2025, 09:35:15 PMYou might remember it all the rest of your life because you didn't take your camera!
There's something in that. Sometimes, photos have a tendency to dislodge the dynamic memory of an event and replace it with a static image.
Quote from: owlice on July 17, 2025, 09:58:41 PMThe boardwalks never disappoint.
Bald Eagle (so big!)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/538342910/large.jpg)
Crikey!
QuoteRed-winged Blackbird (so noisy!)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/538342561/original.jpg)
Blimey!
QuoteCommon Yellowthroat (so cute!)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/538342625/large.jpg)
Not so common at all! What a charmer!
This morning there was a dunnock in the garden - on the bird bath, in fact.
So [see discussion above] I grabbed my camera and clicked, again and again.
I ended up with multiple views of the bird bath, each one spoiled by a fuzzy blob where the dunnock should be.
This is the problem with dunnocks - they are NEVER still. Constantly flitting about, flicking every bit of feather in an orgy of motion. They have no consideration for the needs of the photographer.
Roll up! Roll up! Ladies and gentlemen. Welcome to the game of 'SPOT THE DUNNOCK!'
Is it a bird? Is it a plane? Is it a little whirly blob of some sort? Is it a bit of fluff on the camera lens?
Let the people decide:
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 17, 2025, 11:49:33 PMA few weeks ago we found a pigeon in the garden that was seriously ill - it looked as if it had had the equivalent of a stroke, and couldn't use half of its body. We didn't know what to do, so put some food and water within reach, and left him in case he recovered from whatever it was. His mate stayed nearby, clearly puzzled. She kept going over to him and nudging him, keeping vigil until he quietly died after about half an hour. Even then she couldn't figure out what had happened, and stayed around for another hour or so, as if hopeful of a revival that would never come.
Even though countless events of that kind are happening out of sight, it wasn't possible to watch that episode without feeling sympathy. I think of Blake: 'How do you know but ev'ry Bird that cuts the airy way, Is an immense world of delight, clos'd by your senses five?'
I did not have weeping into my morning coffee on today's bingo card... :'(
So we went to see our daughter this afternoon and stopped for half an hour at the Little Egret spot. No sign of any avocets, but there was a little egret, just visible, apparently in a galaxy far away. I used the top of the car to steady the camera and did my best. The results are clearly rubbish, but they represent my first ever photographs of a little egret.
Also, again at a distance best measured in light years, were these. I think they're black-tailed godwits. Are they?
Quote from: owlice on July 18, 2025, 05:50:43 AMI did not have weeping into my morning coffee on today's bingo card... :'(
My apologies. It was very sad at the time.
Finally, on this same visit, for the first time I've been able to see a tern and know whether it was common or arctic. Black tips on the bills! Ladies and gentlemen, I offer you two common terns.
More excellent pics,
@owlice! I too had no idea of the wide and rich variety of sparrows that live outside this little island. Lovely to see!
I was very taken by the delicate little Dark-eyed Junco, its simple unbroken grey colour seems very unusual on a small bird to me, though perhaps there are numerous other examples. I find it beautiful and very elegant.
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/114141768/original.jpg)
And the grey feathers on the Bald Eagle seem almost like fish scales to me. What an impressive figure they cut!
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/538342910/large.jpg)
Edit: And love your little 'comic terns' pun in the previous post,
@Elgarian Redux !
Quote from: Iota on July 18, 2025, 12:29:35 PMlove your little 'comic terns' pun in the previous post, @Elgarian Redux !
I wish I could take credit for it. Actually, it was a joke coined by the chap who first got me interested in birds, back in the mid-1970s. And I expect he got it from someone else!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 18, 2025, 04:36:33 AMRoll up! Roll up! Ladies and gentlemen. Welcome to the game of 'SPOT THE DUNNOCK!'
Is it a bird? Is it a plane? Is it a little whirly blob of some sort? Is it a bit of fluff on the camera lens?
Let the people decide:
It is a bird!! A little whirly fluffy blob birb with a side of frenetic!!
How nice to see a dunnock!! Thanks for the photo!!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 18, 2025, 09:58:24 AMSo we went to see our daughter this afternoon and stopped for half an hour at the Little Egret spot. No sign of any avocets, but there was a little egret, just visible, apparently in a galaxy far away. I used the top of the car to steady the camera and did my best. The results are clearly rubbish, but they represent my first ever photographs of a little egret.
Not rubbish!! You can ID the bird! That is the very definition of a good photo!! Or at least a good enough photo!
Quote from: Elgarian ReduxAlso, again at a distance best measured in light years, were these. I think they're black-tailed godwits. Are they?
Pretty sure they are! Nice!! And it looks like maybe a redshank is hanging out with them.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 18, 2025, 10:29:14 AMFinally, on this same visit, for the first time I've been able to see a tern and know whether it was common or arctic. Black tips on the bills! Ladies and gentlemen, I offer you two common terns.
YAY!!! Terns!! Two good terns deserve another, or even anothers:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/128542305/original.jpeg)
Forster's Terns, New Jersey
Quote from: Iota on July 18, 2025, 12:29:35 PMMore excellent pics, @owlice! I too had no idea of the wide and rich variety of sparrows that live outside this little island. Lovely to see!
I was very taken by the delicate little Dark-eyed Junco, its simple unbroken grey colour seems very unusual on a small bird to me, though perhaps there are numerous other examples. I find it beautiful and very elegant.
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/114141768/original.jpg)
And the grey feathers on the Bald Eagle seem almost like fish scales to me. What an impressive figure they cut!
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/538342910/large.jpg)
Thank you, Iota!
So many sparrow species, so many opportunities to misidentify them!
I love these little juncos. They are sometimes referred to as "snow birds" because they appear in the temperate zones of the US in late fall/winter, having migrated down from the far north. I am always happy to see them arrive, and always sad to see them go! They are distinctive when they fly, flashing white outer tail feathers. There are numerous subspecies; this one, very common, is the Slate-colored. Another variation on the junco theme, from Arizona, is below.
Fish scale feathers for a fish eagle... thanks for pointing them out, and how appropriate! I'd never thought of that, but now that you've brought it up, it occurs to me that another fish hunter also has fish-scale-like feathers:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/420249053/original.jpeg)
White-breasted (Great) Cormorant
I maybe should have noticed that.... !
I'll be on the road for the next few days; I've enlisted a few friends to hold up my end of the conversation while I head southward.
Cooper's Hawk
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/333807159/original.jpeg)
Eastern Kingbird
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/217547076/original.jpeg)
American Robin
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/504164157/original.jpeg)
Rattling Cisticola
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/315124365/original.jpeg)
Tree Swallows (adult and juvenile)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/295694322/original.jpeg)
Quote from: owlice on July 18, 2025, 07:30:37 PMGASP!!!
I know. I'm sorry. It must have been a shock. I should have broken the news more gently.
Quote from: owlice on July 18, 2025, 07:32:26 PMIt is a bird!! A little whirly fluffy blob birb with a side of frenetic!!
Correct. You win First Prize. It is indeed a rare Whirlyfluff Blob-bird, whose chief characteristic is its rampant freneticism.
Hard luck to those who thought it was a bit of fluff on the camera lens. You came
so close.
Quote from: owlice on July 18, 2025, 07:37:19 PMNot rubbish!! You can ID the bird! That is the very definition of a good photo!! Or at least a good enough photo!
Your kindness must be legendary.
QuotePretty sure they are! Nice!! And it looks like maybe a redshank is hanging out with them.
Thanks for the confirmation. Identifying birds I've tried to photograph at the outer limits of the solar system is not my forte.
QuoteYAY!!! Terns!! Two good terns deserve another, or even anothers:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/128542305/original.jpeg)
Forster's Terns, New Jersey
I vote this the best pun seen on the forum today.
Quote from: owlice on July 18, 2025, 08:36:14 PMI'll be on the road for the next few days; I've enlisted a few friends to hold up my end of the conversation while I head southward.
Happy travels. Come back soon.
QuoteAmerican Robin
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/504164157/original.jpeg)
Lovely
QuoteRattling Cisticola
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/315124365/original.jpeg)
Why 'rattling'? Does it make that sort of sound?
QuoteTree Swallows (adult and juvenile)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/295694322/original.jpeg)
Gorgeous.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 18, 2025, 01:20:26 PMI wish I could take credit for it. Actually, it was a joke coined by the chap who first got me interested in birds, back in the mid-1970s. And I expect he got it from someone else!
Well, thanks for sharing it!
Quote from: owlice on July 18, 2025, 08:20:07 PMSo many sparrow species, so many opportunities to misidentify them!
I love these little juncos. They are sometimes referred to as "snow birds" because they appear in the temperate zones of the US in late fall/winter, having migrated down from the far north. I am always happy to see them arrive, and always sad to see them go! They are distinctive when they fly, flashing white outer tail feathers. There are numerous subspecies; this one, very common, is the Slate-colored. Another variation on the junco theme, from Arizona, is below.
I'd love to see that! And yes, I'm always sad to see the swifts which are a common and lovely sight here on summer's evenings, flitting around high up catching insects, when they head off south for the winter. It's a sign the darker days are coming again, and thus accompanied for me by a certain regret.
I often get a feeling of awe when I'm watching them, knowing how they spend months in the air without ever landing, it's a feat that strikes me as quasi-miraculous.
Quote from: owlice on July 18, 2025, 08:36:14 PMI'll be on the road for the next few days; I've enlisted a few friends to hold up my end of the conversation while I head southward.
Cooper's Hawk
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/333807159/original.jpeg)
Eastern Kingbird
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/217547076/original.jpeg)
American Robin
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/504164157/original.jpeg)
Rattling Cisticola
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/315124365/original.jpeg)
Tree Swallows (adult and juvenile)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/295694322/original.jpeg)
Just brilliant,
@owlice! Such character, colour and life in those photos! Have a great trip!
Saw an interesting segment on a morning show about the annual event on the Thames which counts and checks in on the swans' health, etc. Nice to see! :)
K
Quote from: Iota on July 19, 2025, 06:03:10 AMI'd love to see that!
(https://objects.liquidweb.services/images/201707/jon_corcoran_16874228652_220cb4a723_c.jpg)
https://www.marylandbiodiversity.com/record/230432
Quote from: IotaAnd yes, I'm always sad to see the swifts which are a common and lovely sight here on summer's evenings, flitting around high up catching insects, when they head off south for the winter. It's a sign the darker days are coming again, and thus accompanied for me by a certain regret.
I often get a feeling of awe when I'm watching them, knowing how they spend months in the air without ever landing, it's a feat that strikes me as quasi-miraculous.
Birds are miraculous!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 19, 2025, 12:19:51 AMWhy 'rattling'? Does it make that sort of sound?
It has a distinctive call (https://ebird.org/species/ratcis1/) (which I would not call "rattling"; would you?), but maybe it's because:
1.) there are a lot of cisticola species (over 50);
2.) many of them have (numerous) sub-species; and at some point,
3.) they had to be named
something.
So Rattling, Winding, Piping, Croaking, Rock-loving (I swear I am not making this up), Wailing, Singing, Whistling, Trilling (yes, I had to look some of these up), Chattering, Tiny, Tinkling (honestly), Foxy, Chirping, Wing-snapping and et cetera.
(I'm sure all of these make sense... well, I'm almost positive. Maybe.)
Quote from: owlice on July 19, 2025, 07:35:42 PMIt has a distinctive call (https://ebird.org/species/ratcis1/) (which I would not call "rattling"; would you?)
Not really. But it might be as good as any alternative I might propose.
Quotebut maybe it's because:
1.) there are a lot of cisticola species (over 50);
2.) many of them have (numerous) sub-species; and at some point,
3.) they had to be named something.
So Rattling, Winding, Piping, Croaking, Rock-loving (I swear I am not making this up), Wailing, Singing, Whistling, Trilling (yes, I had to look some of these up), Chattering, Tiny, Tinkling (honestly), Foxy, Chirping, Wing-snapping and et cetera.
(I'm sure all of these make sense... well, I'm almost positive. Maybe.)
Yes I think I opt for (3). 'Talking about birdsong' isn't easy. It's like 'dancing about castles' or 'whistling about oranges'.
I thought you were zooming off somewhere, Owlice?
Quote from: owlice on July 19, 2025, 06:32:03 PM(https://objects.liquidweb.services/images/201707/jon_corcoran_16874228652_220cb4a723_c.jpg)
https://www.marylandbiodiversity.com/record/230432
Thank you, such balletic grace and freedom! And yet another stunning pic, bravo!
Quote from: owlice on July 19, 2025, 06:32:03 PMBirds are miraculous!
Indeed! It seems impossible to conceive of a world without them.
Quote from: Iota on July 20, 2025, 03:20:41 AMIt seems impossible to conceive of a world without them.
By and large, I find it hard to envisage birds as the descendants of dinosaurs, given their grace and beauty of flight. And yet, watching certain birds, sometimes I can see it - jackdaws, for instance. They can strut and behave in an aggressive, fierce manner, that can trigger the 'dinosaur' connection.
I have a small collection of Plesiosaur and Ichthyosaur fossils (vertebrae and paddle bones) which even after many years I still find awesome - but at no time do they ever make me think of birds. I suppose the fossil chain leading to birds doesn't include the sea-reptiles. But my ignorance is vast, and this post is mainly incoherent rambling.
Quote from: Iota on July 20, 2025, 03:20:41 AMThank you, such balletic grace and freedom! And yet another stunning pic, bravo!
Sorry! Not my photo!! It is from the Maryland Biodiversity site I linked in the post. I should have made that clear!
Also, BIF (birds in flight) ... well, I have some, but mostly leave that to faster people with better cameras.
Quote from: owlice on July 20, 2025, 12:44:20 PMAlso, BIF (birds in flight) ... well, I have some, but mostly leave that to faster people with better cameras.
You're referring to me and my dunnock, aren't you?
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 20, 2025, 12:01:44 AMI thought you were zooming off somewhere, Owlice?
I am indeed. Yesterday a long drive, today the short leg, and tomorrow the one that's just right (about 7 hours).
Quote from: Elgarian ReduxYou're referring to me and my dunnock, aren't you?
Yes, of course!!
Quote from: owlice on July 20, 2025, 12:50:40 PMI am indeed. Yesterday a long drive, today the short leg, and tomorrow the one that's just right (about 7 hours).
Yes, of course!!
So tomorrow is the Goldilocks drive! But watch out for bears.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 20, 2025, 12:30:25 PMBy and large, I find it hard to envisage birds as the descendants of dinosaurs, given their grace and beauty of flight. And yet, watching certain birds, sometimes I can see it - jackdaws, for instance. They can strut and behave in an aggressive, fierce manner, that can trigger the 'dinosaur' connection.
I have a small collection of Plesiosaur and Ichthyosaur fossils (vertebrae and paddle bones) which even after many years I still find awesome - but at no time do they ever make me think of birds. I suppose the fossil chain leading to birds doesn't include the sea-reptiles. But my ignorance is vast, and this post is mainly incoherent rambling.
Regarding dino ancestors, take a look at the talons of these guys (Red-tailed hawks):
(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/0a/a4/fb/0aa4fb3a2165c0b10222f822f1de20e1.jpg)
K
Indigo Bunting (dinosaur)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/539855020/original.jpg)
Dickcissel; I've been wanting to see one for the longest time! (dinosaur)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/539858070/original.jpg)
Northern Bobwhites (dinosaurs)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/539855760/original.jpg)
Halloween Pennant (dragon)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/539965300/original.jpg)
Quote from: Kalevala on July 20, 2025, 02:58:07 PMRegarding dino ancestors, take a look at the talons of these guys (Red-tailed hawks):
(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/0a/a4/fb/0aa4fb3a2165c0b10222f822f1de20e1.jpg)
K
Oh yes, I concur. Pure dinosaur.
Quote from: owlice on July 20, 2025, 10:39:20 PMIndigo Bunting (dinosaur)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/539855020/original.jpg)
What? That lovely fluffy little chap? Really?
QuoteDickcissel; I've been wanting to see one for the longest time! (dinosaur)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/539858070/original.jpg)
Dino-bird.
QuoteNorthern Bobwhites (dinosaurs)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/539855760/original.jpg)
Oh yes. Dinosaur. No question.
QuoteHalloween Pennant (dragon)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/539965300/original.jpg)
But does it exhale fire?
This morning I looked out of the bedroom window and there was Mrs Pheasant with a half dozen of her brood, looking not entirely unlike a group of grazing sauropods. Where was the camera? Downstairs, of course.
Swoosh down, grab camera, swoosh up (not so much of the swooshing coming up, actually), and ... all mini-pheasants gone but one. But I clicked. Clicked again to get a slightly better shot of Madame. And here they are. The poor quality is quite embarrassing actually, but when it comes to choosing acoustic guitars versus cameras, acoustic guitars tend to win, so I think I'm stuck with it.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 20, 2025, 12:30:25 PMBy and large, I find it hard to envisage birds as the descendants of dinosaurs, given their grace and beauty of flight. And yet, watching certain birds, sometimes I can see it - jackdaws, for instance. They can strut and behave in an aggressive, fierce manner, that can trigger the 'dinosaur' connection.
Yes I see it too when I look for it, but it's not something that generally feels particularly close by with birds for me, except perhaps in the steely features some of the larger predators and scavengers. Though I think there's a strong body of evidence now that suggests that many dinosaurs were covered in feathers including such heavyweights as the T. Rex, so perhaps there's a pretty direct biological highway between them somewhere along the line.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 20, 2025, 12:30:25 PMI have a small collection of Plesiosaur and Ichthyosaur fossils (vertebrae and paddle bones) which even after many years I still find awesome - but at no time do they ever make me think of birds. I suppose the fossil chain leading to birds doesn't include the sea-reptiles. But my ignorance is vast, and this post is mainly incoherent rambling.
I've never owned any fossils, but have just started watching a very interesting series on the iPlayer called '
Human', about the evolution of Homo sapiens, which has given me a new found enthusiasm for fossils, and the stories they tell. I'd recommend it.
Quote from: owlice on July 20, 2025, 12:44:20 PMSorry! Not my photo!! It is from the Maryland Biodiversity site I linked in the post. I should have made that clear!
Also, BIF (birds in flight) ... well, I have some, but mostly leave that to faster people with better cameras.
Ah yes, sorry, was so bowled over by the photo, I rather skated past the link ...
Hope you get your hands on a 'better camera' some day, if such is your desire, but I must say you're doing a pretty sensational job with the one you already have!
Quote from: Iota on July 21, 2025, 05:31:53 AMyou're doing a pretty sensational job with the one you already have!
Quoted for truth, as they say.
Quote from: Iota on July 21, 2025, 05:31:53 AMI think there's a strong body of evidence now that suggests that many dinosaurs were covered in feathers including such heavyweights as the T. Rex, so perhaps there's a pretty direct biological highway between them somewhere along the line.
Well said. It's hard to shake off the old image of the dinosaur, so familiar from books illustrated, of course, with no feathers.
QuoteI've never owned any fossils, but have just started watching a very interesting series on the iPlayer called 'Human', about the evolution of Homo sapiens, which has given me a new found enthusiasm for fossils, and the stories they tell. I'd recommend it.
Thanks for the tip.
I did a 1 year undergraduate course in geology way back in the 1960s, when some dinosaurs might still have been alive, so I did quite a bit of fossil hunting and studying (but I'd already done some of it for fun). My enthusiasm survived the course, but only just. When it came down to it, I was fascinated by the fossils themselves: their extreme age, their appearance, the digging them out of rock, the rugged beauty of them. My fascination didn't extend, sadly, to learning about the detailed classification of them. So my fondness for fossils is imaginatively rich but intellectually shallow.
There's a place on the beach at Lyme Regis in Dorset where a layer of rock extends dozens of yards in all directions, and consists almost entirely of huge ammonite fossils. Standing there, surrounded by them, extending wherever you look, one knows that here, unfathomably long ago, a great ammonite tragedy of some kind occurred. You wouldn't think the death of a bunch of shellfish in the Jurassic period could be so affecting. But when you stand there, it is:
(https://nplimages.infradoxxs.com/cache/pcache2/01637680.jpg)
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 21, 2025, 06:03:52 AMWell said. It's hard to shake off the old image of the dinosaur, so familiar from books illustrated, of course, with no feathers.
Thanks for the tip.
I did a 1 year undergraduate course in geology way back in the 1960s, when some dinosaurs might still have been alive, so I did quite a bit of fossil hunting and studying (but I'd already done some of it for fun). My enthusiasm survived the course, but only just. When it came down to it, I was fascinated by the fossils themselves: their extreme age, their appearance, the digging them out of rock, the rugged beauty of them. My fascination didn't extend, sadly, to learning about the detailed classification of them. So my fondness for fossils is imaginatively rich but intellectually shallow.
There's a place on the beach at Lyme Regis in Dorset where a layer of rock extends dozens of yards in all directions, and consists almost entirely of huge ammonite fossils. Standing there, surrounded by them, extending wherever you look, one knows that here, unfathomably long ago, a great ammonite tragedy of come kind occurred. You wouldn't think the death of a bunch of shellfish in the Jurassic period could be so affecting. But when you stand there, it is:
(https://nplimages.infradoxxs.com/cache/pcache2/01637680.jpg)
Neat stories! How cool to have a bunch of fossils! :)
K
Quote from: Kalevala on July 21, 2025, 06:18:51 AMNeat stories! How cool to have a bunch of fossils! :)
K
I have more to tell, if you've the patience to read it - and I'm assuming that in discussing dinosaurs (and birds being dinosaurs) I'm not going hopelessly off topic?
I once met a chap (let's call him Jim) who met a fisherman, who regularly trawled for fish from a small ship off the Dorset Jurassic coast. This trawlerman would often find lumps of rock in his nets, and he threw them away. Now Jim saw some of these rocks, realised that some of them were dinosaur vertebrae, and offered to buy any future ones that he found. The trawlerman was keen to do this, and from time to time would present Jim with a box of dinosaur vertebrae, receiving financial recompense for so doing. Jim then sold them to fossil hunters.
The point about this was that the fossils naturally weathered out of the cliffs and fell into the sea, where, without the intervention of the trawlerman, they would have been lost for good. Obviously one cannot in good conscience attempt to hammer fossils out of the cliffs. (It's illegal these days, I should think.) So the short story is that I got my fossils by buying them from Jim.
In the photo, left to right: (1) plesiosaur paddle bone, (2) plesiosaur vertebra, (3) plesiosaur vertebra, (4) ichthyosaur vertebra, (5) ichthyosaur vertebra (6) ammonite. The biggest vertebra is about 10 cm in diameter.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 21, 2025, 10:56:05 AMI have more to tell, if you've the patience to read it - and I'm assuming that in discussing dinosaurs (and birds being dinosaurs) I'm not going hopelessly off topic?
I once met a chap (let's call him Jim) who met a fisherman, who regularly trawled for fish from a small ship off the Dorset Jurassic coast. This trawlerman would often find lumps of rock in his nets, and he threw them away. Now Jim saw some of these rocks, realised that some of them were dinosaur vertebrae, and offered to buy any future ones that he found. The trawlerman was keen to do this, and from time to time would present Jim with a box of dinosaur vertebrae, receiving financial recompense for so doing. Jim then sold them to fossil hunters.
The point about this was that the fossils naturally weathered out of the cliffs and fell into the sea, where, without the intervention of the trawlerman, they would have been lost for good. Obviously one cannot in good conscience attempt to hammer fossils out of the cliffs. (It's illegal these days, I should think.) So the short story is that I got my fossils by buying them from Jim.
In the photo, left to right: (1) plesiosaur paddle bone, (2) plesiosaur vertebra, (3) plesiosaur vertebra, (4) ichthyosaur vertebra, (5) ichthyosaur vertebra (6) ammonite. The biggest vertebra is about 10 cm in diameter.
Neat! So, how do the fossils get into the fishing nets?
K
Quote from: Kalevala on July 21, 2025, 11:23:55 AMNeat! So, how do the fossils get into the fishing nets?
K
I believe that to catch flatfish like plaice and sole, the nets have to be dragged along the sea bed, and so they pick up anything they encounter, along with the fish - including fossils.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 21, 2025, 06:03:52 AMI did a 1 year undergraduate course in geology way back in the 1960s, when some dinosaurs might still have been alive, so I did quite a bit of fossil hunting and studying (but I'd already done some of it for fun). My enthusiasm survived the course, but only just. When it came down to it, I was fascinated by the fossils themselves: their extreme age, their appearance, the digging them out of rock, the rugged beauty of them. My fascination didn't extend, sadly, to learning about the detailed classification of them. So my fondness for fossils is imaginatively rich but intellectually shallow.
There's a place on the beach at Lyme Regis in Dorset where a layer of rock extends dozens of yards in all directions, and consists almost entirely of huge ammonite fossils. Standing there, surrounded by them, extending wherever you look, one knows that here, unfathomably long ago, a great ammonite tragedy of some kind occurred. You wouldn't think the death of a bunch of shellfish in the Jurassic period could be so affecting. But when you stand there, it is:
(https://nplimages.infradoxxs.com/cache/pcache2/01637680.jpg)
Your relationship with fossils sounds a very rich one, and your description of the ammonite bed makes the emotional connection very easy to imagine. I have strolled along the undercliff at Lyme Regis back in the 80s, and the sediment layers did seem like a sort of geologists dream. I seem to remember we actually started off by walking along the top of the cliffs and had some sort of encounter with adders, which was really pretty scary as the undergrowth meant you couldn't see your feet or lower legs, or the adders! We were really quite panicked and hightailed it out of there pretty damn quick. That's when we then went the more sensible route at the base of the cliffs.
In the village primary school I attended we all knew about ammonites from an early age, as there was a enormous ammonite fossil in the garden wall of a house next to the school, which we passed every day. When I do get excited about fossils, it's the sense of connection with something otherwise impossibly distant from you temporally speaking, that can certainly feel very special. Though as I say this BBC series is opening my eyes to them now in a way they have never been.
Quote from: Iota on July 21, 2025, 12:44:12 PMI have strolled along the undercliff at Lyme Regis back in the 80s, and the sediment layers did seem like a sort of geologists dream. I seem to remember we actually started off by walking along the top of the cliffs and had some sort of encounter with adders, which was really pretty scary as the undergrowth meant you couldn't see your feet or lower legs, or the adders! We were really quite panicked and hightailed it out of there pretty damn quick. That's when we then went the more sensible route at the base of the cliffs.
In the village primary school I attended we all knew about ammonites from an early age, as there was a enormous ammonite fossil in the garden wall of a house next to the school, which we passed every day. When I do get excited about fossils, it's the sense of connection with something otherwise impossibly distant from you temporally speaking, that can certainly feel very special. Though as I say this BBC series is opening my eyes to them now in a way they have never been.
So you grew up in Lyme? How fabulous to live with all that richness around you. I've never seen an adder, but I'd be pretty scared if I did.
Did you know the museum? It's a lovely old place, surely haunted by the ghost of Mary Anning, and full of fossils and stories. With your deep knowledge of the place, I'd bet that you'd enjoy the novel about Mary Anning by Tracy Chevalier, which she researched very carefully, and which oozes the atmosphere of 19th century Lyme. It's called
Remarkable Creatures. Wonderful book.
You're spot on with the idea of a fossil as an imaginative gateway to the past. Here it is, now, and there it was, then, except that
then it was part of a fearsome creature - a lot more scary than an adder! That feeling never goes away, I find, even though the fossils have been on top of this bookcase for years now.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 21, 2025, 12:59:53 PMSo you grew up in Lyme?
Ah no, sorry, I grew up in a village in Buckinghamshire, which is where the school and house with the ammonite fossil in its garden wall was. Looking back I guess it must have been bought and built into the wall as a sort of ornament/decoration. Perhaps the original house owner was a paleontologist, I don't know. It was very striking though.
Sorry I gave the impression I grew up in Lyme Regis, but I've only been there once, which is the time I was describing above. :)
Quote from: Iota on July 21, 2025, 01:33:12 PMAh no, sorry, I grew up in a village in Buckinghamshire, which is where the school and house with the ammonite fossil in its garden wall was. Looking back I guess it must have been bought and built into the wall as a sort of ornament/decoration. Perhaps the original house owner was a paleontologist, I don't know. It was very striking though.
Sorry I gave the impression I grew up in Lyme Regis, but I've only been there once, which is the time I was describing above. :)
Sorry I misunderstood. But to have been there once is still enough to win your 'I was in Lyme Regis' badge!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 21, 2025, 01:41:57 PMSorry I misunderstood. But to have been there once is still enough to win your 'I was in Lyme Regis' badge!
Haha, thanks, that's all I was really ever after!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 21, 2025, 05:12:26 AMThis morning I looked out of the bedroom window and there was Mrs Pheasant with a half dozen of her brood, looking not entirely unlike a group of grazing sauropods. Where was the camera? Downstairs, of course.
Swoosh down, grab camera, swoosh up (not so much of the swooshing coming up, actually), and ... all mini-pheasants gone but one. But I clicked. Clicked again to get a slightly better shot of Madame. And here they are. The poor quality is quite embarrassing actually, but when it comes to choosing acoustic guitars versus cameras, acoustic guitars tend to win, so I think I'm stuck with it.
Pheasantosaur!!! So beautiful, and a fluffosaur, too!
The photos are fine; seriously! In my book, so long as you can ID the bird, the picture is good.
Quote from: Iota on July 21, 2025, 05:31:53 AMHope you get your hands on a 'better camera' some day, if such is your desire, but I must say you're doing a pretty sensational job with the one you already have!
Thanks! It really is the camera; all I do is point the thing and press a button. A better camera would be 10x what I spent on the P900; the photos would be better, but 10x better? In my hands?? Unlikely!!
If someone comes out with a good bridge camera that has bird detection/eye tracking and a great zoom that isn't multiple thousands, though, I might be tempted.
Quote from: Elgarian Reduxwhen it comes to choosing acoustic guitars versus cameras, acoustic guitars tend to win
The camera was not nearly as much as the acoustic guitar... :D (Just sayin')
As I was leaving my previous lair, I heard a Yellow-billed Cuckoo calling from the woods behind my cabin. When I reached the end of the driveway, I was surprised (and delighted!) to see a Yellow-breasted Chat bathing in a puddle from the previous night's tremendous storms.
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/540519464/original.jpg)
I stopped at one of the little parking spots along the road to check some ponds for waterfowl. Across the street, a gentleman seated at his tripod, coffee in hand, waved me over; he pointed out an immature Least Bittern that I surely would have missed on my own. (Looking for bitterns is usually a bitter experience; such secretive birds!)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/540519710/original.jpg)
An hour's walk (of only a half-mile) started with American Goldfinches feeding in the prairie brush.
Male
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/540519782/original.jpg)
Female
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/540631801/original.jpg)
The walk had plenty of Dickcissals and sparrows, Indigo Buntings and blackbirds, Mourning Doves on roofs and even a couple of Bobwhites in trees, but yellow was splashed all over the morning.
Orchard Oriole
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/540520521/original.jpg)
Common Yellowthroat
Male
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/540520494/original.jpg)
Female
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/540520428/original.jpg)
Quote from: owlice on July 22, 2025, 12:26:13 AM...
I stopped at one of the little parking spots along the road to check some ponds for waterfowl. Across the street, a gentleman seated at his tripod, coffee in hand, waved me over; he pointed out an immature Least Bittern that I surely would have missed on my own. (Looking for bitterns is usually a bitter experience; such secretive birds!)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/540519710/original.jpg)
Amazing. I've heard bitterns quite a few times, but only ever saw one once. And he was bloomin' hard to spot!
'There he is, through the reeds ... - just there. Bill pointing upwards.'
'Where? Where?'
'
There!'
'But
where?'
....
Quote from: owlice on July 21, 2025, 11:41:37 PMThanks! It really is the camera; all I do is point the thing and press a button. A better camera would be 10x what I spent on the P900; the photos would be better, but 10x better? In my hands?? Unlikely!!
...
The camera was not nearly as much as the acoustic guitar... :D (Just sayin')
I am thinking about this. The camera will cost me less in replacement strings, won't it?
But seriously, I am thinking, albeit hesitantly, about it. I may come back to you shortly with a few thousand questions.
Quote from: owlice on July 21, 2025, 11:22:48 PMPheasantosaur!!! So beautiful, and a fluffosaur, too!
The photos are fine; seriously! In my book, so long as you can ID the bird, the picture is good.
Fluffosaur! Yes! Perfect! I'm good at photographing fluff!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 22, 2025, 02:32:46 AMAmazing. I've heard bitterns quite a few times, but only ever saw one once. And he was bloomin' hard to spot!
'There he is, through the reeds ... - just there. Bill pointing upwards.'
'Where? Where?'
'There!'
'But where?'
....
Exactly!!
Bitterns be bitterns where'er they be
No matter what kind, they're difficult to see
I have photos of three (other) bitterns (two American, one Least), and they are all in the "bill pointing upwards" pose.
The other pose I've seen (two Least Bitterns [neither the one from yesterday] on two different continents) is this one; this bittern was quite far away:
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 22, 2025, 02:39:53 AMI am thinking about this. The camera will cost me less in replacement strings, won't it?
But seriously, I am thinking, albeit hesitantly, about it. I may come back to you shortly with a few thousand questions.
I'm happy to answer questions I can answer. I know very little about photography and cameras, however, which is why I use the camera I use... !
But your camera seems to do just fine, seriously! If you were going on safari, maybe then, yeah, you'd want something with a bigger zoom, but are you going on safari? Or really wanting to photograph a lot of wildlife?
My prompt for getting the P900 was a safari, a much-anticipated long-time-in-coming safari I'd been thinking about since I was high school. I was spending what for me was a lot o' dough to go on it.... and I knew that the little camera I had was not going to work for it and I also knew that I'd want photos of what I was going to see, because doggone it, safaris don't happen in my life every day! So I spent what to me was a lot o' dough ($600) on the most expensive camera I'd ever bought. (Now superseded in expense by the P950, but that was a special circumstance and couldn't be helped.)
That you could photograph Mrs. Pheasantosaur so well from a window... well, you might have the best camera for your needs and wants in your hands already!
Quote from: owlice on July 22, 2025, 12:26:13 AM...I stopped at one of the little parking spots along the road to check some ponds for waterfowl. Across the street, a gentleman seated at his tripod, coffee in hand, waved me over; he pointed out an immature Least Bittern that I surely would have missed on my own. (Looking for bitterns is usually a bitter experience; such secretive birds!)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/540519710/original.jpg)
Common Yellowthroat
Female
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/540520428/original.jpg)
More great photos,
@owlice (even though I've only singled these two out). The claws on that Least Bittern are pretty fearsome looking things, and I really like the almost pastel colours on the female Yellowthroat, what a lovely little bird it is!
(Should I dare say that perhaps it's not so surprising that Bitterns are so secretive, they do say, 'Once bittern, twice shy' after all ... :blank: I'll get me coat ..)
Quote from: owlice on July 22, 2025, 04:46:30 AMI'm happy to answer questions I can answer. I know very little about photography and cameras, however, which is why I use the camera I use... !
But your camera seems to do just fine, seriously! If you were going on safari, maybe then, yeah, you'd want something with a bigger zoom, but are you going on safari? Or really wanting to photograph a lot of wildlife?
My prompt for getting the P900 was a safari, a much-anticipated long-time-in-coming safari I'd been thinking about since I was high school. I was spending what for me was a lot o' dough to go on it.... and I knew that the little camera I had was not going to work for it and I also knew that I'd want photos of what I was going to see, because doggone it, safaris don't happen in my life every day! So I spent what to me was a lot o' dough ($600) on the most expensive camera I'd ever bought. (Now superseded in expense by the P950, but that was a special circumstance and couldn't be helped.)
That you could photograph Mrs. Pheasantosaur so well from a window... well, you might have the best camera for your needs and wants in your hands already!
This is all eminent good sense -thank you very much for thinking so thoroughly about it - and in fact you've answered some of my questions already. What I should say, quite honestly, is that your photographs of birds make for a superb recommendation for the camera you're using. I won't mention your skill (art, even) because you say it's all in the camera, and that's what we're talking about for the moment.
Many years ago in the days of film, I had a smashing single lens reflex camera, which I abandoned very reluctantly when the digital compact automatic devices started to get so good. I never looked back after that. It was always the image I was interested in, rather than the photography, and the little Panasonics did the job with a lot less intervention from me. The portability (when I remember to pick it up) is another bonus.
I'll never go on a safari, and when I see an interesting bird, my first impulse is to get the best sighting I can. Photographing it is my second thought, rather than my first.
So I think between us, we've persuaded me to stick with my little TZ70. But it was a nice temporary dream, entirely inspired by the wonderful images you've been showing us. When I'm looking, day after day, at such fabulous bird images, it's a fairly natural impulse to start wondering.
Quote from: Iota on July 22, 2025, 07:56:40 AMMore great photos, @owlice (even though I've only singled these two out). The claws on that Least Bittern are pretty fearsome looking things, and I really like the almost pastel colours on the female Yellowthroat, what a lovely little bird it is!
Male birds get a lot of excitement for their bright showy colors, with good reason, but I find that female birds are often more beautiful for the amazing subtleties and shades of and sometimes patterns on their feathers. The male American Redstart is an "oooo, what's
that?!" bird; the female is not, but I am always thrilled to see her soft beauty.
Male
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/534731488/original.jpg)
Another (https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/511722083/original.jpg) and another (https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/380897759/original.jpeg) and another, with spider webs (https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/199499059/original.jpeg) :laugh:
Female
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/196114664/original.jpeg)
Another (https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/196114662/original.jpeg) and another (https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/295324201/original.jpeg) and another, at nest (https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/295323609/original.jpeg)
Quote(Should I dare say that perhaps it's not so surprising that Bitterns are so secretive, they do say, 'Once bittern, twice shy' after all ... :blank: I'll get me coat ..)
hahahaha!!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 22, 2025, 10:35:38 AMThis is all eminent good sense -thank you very much for thinking so thoroughly about it - and in fact you've answered some of my questions already. What I should say, quite honestly, is that your photographs of birds make for a superb recommendation for the camera you're using. I won't mention your skill (art, even) because you say it's all in the camera, and that's what we're talking about for the moment.
You're welcome, and it's easy to prove that it's all in the camera. I know some others get
much better photos than I do with the same equipment, because they have an artistic sense and better knowledge of the camera.
I know that you, within just a few hours -- or less -- with one of my cameras would easily match (or surpass) my photos. I have lent my cameras to many others (other people on the same tour I'm on, tour guides, one of the tour drivers, random students and university visitors...), and I've seen the images they've taken. More importantly, so have they... I've had a couple of people offer to buy the camera I've lent them, even one guy who said he'd pay whatever price I wanted!
I am reasonably sure you could borrow or rent a P950 and try it out. I wouldn't go to the P1100 or whatever it is, because that sucker is
heavy and is IMO better suited to tripod use. Heck, if you're within a reasonable distance from London, you can try one of mine when I'm next there. (My son lives in London.)
QuoteSo I think between us, we've persuaded me to stick with my little TZ70. But it was a nice temporary dream, entirely inspired by the wonderful images you've been showing us. When I'm looking, day after day, at such fabulous bird images, it's a fairly natural impulse to start wondering.
I'm sure you must have heard that the
best camera is the one you have with you. It is ever so! :)
Quote from: owlice on July 22, 2025, 01:39:39 PMI'm sure you must have heard that the best camera is the one you have with you.
In my case it's the one I didn't have with me....
More tomorrow.
Quote from: owlice on July 22, 2025, 01:39:39 PMYou're welcome, and it's easy to prove that it's all in the camera. I know some others get much better photos than I do with the same equipment, because they have an artistic sense and better knowledge of the camera.
I know that you, within just a few hours -- or less -- with one of my cameras would easily match (or surpass) my photos. I have lent my cameras to many others (other people on the same tour I'm on, tour guides, one of the tour drivers, random students and university visitors...), and I've seen the images they've taken. More importantly, so have they... I've had a couple of people offer to buy the camera I've lent them, even one guy who said he'd pay whatever price I wanted!
I get it, I really do. But may I still say that the best of your photographs are not merely clear and colourful - they're exquisitely composed, with a sense of 'rightness' and a tautness of balance. This, for example is a magnificent image, worthy of a frame on anyone's wall:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/534731103/original.jpg)
QuoteI am reasonably sure you could borrow or rent a P950 and try it out.
Next time I'm near a camera shop, I will.
QuoteHeck, if you're within a reasonable distance from London, you can try one of mine when I'm next there. (My son lives in London.)
I live almost as far from London as it's possible to be while still being in England (though the people in Cumbria, yet further north, would scoff at that statement). 10 years ago I'd be in London a couple of times a year, haunting the galleries. And although I have no intention of going gentle into that good night, these days a journey to London is a more daunting prospect than it used to be. Still - will you let me know next time you're coming over here?
There's a bunch of pigeons on the street. They've been around for years, causing trouble like a Mohock gang in 18th Century London. Or they think they do. Really they just make a lot of fuss and wing-flapping. The truth is they're a bit vacuous. They barge into the garden now and then - all the nice birds fly away - and then they waddle about saying, 'Look at us, we scared 'em off'. Then they don't know what to do, and disappear in a noisy flutter of feathers, and the little birds come back.
Yesterday evening one of these daftosaurs came on his own, and sat on the vacant bird feeder looking silly. Here he is:
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 23, 2025, 12:41:37 AMBut may I still say that the best of your photographs are not merely clear and colourful - they're exquisitely composed, with a sense of 'rightness' and a tautness of balance. This, for example is a magnificent image, worthy of a frame on anyone's wall:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/534731103/original.jpg)
Well said!
You are very modest,
@owlice, but whatever other people's virtues may or may not be, your photos are vivid and full of life, and although I'm no photographer myself you seem to me to have a very natural ability and indeed an empathy with the subject that communicates itself very captivatingly.
It was never supposed to be a walk when we went out this morning, but we ended up high in the hills, listening to Elgar's 1st symphony in the car, and decided to do a favourite walk after all.
I did not have my camera with me.
The place was almost devoid of birds. No sign of the barn owl that sometimes hangs around. No stonechats, even. A few meadow pipits.
Good job I didn't have the camera, really.
But oh we saw butterflies galore. Whites, lots of meadow browns, a painted lady, a few small coppers, glowing brighter than anyone could sensibly expect , and a couple of ringlets (which I don't recall ever seeing before).
Some people would have had a camera with them, and would now be offering photographs of these creatures. Not me.
But I can show you where we were, using photos from a previous walk:
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 23, 2025, 12:41:37 AMI get it, I really do. But may I still say that the best of your photographs are not merely clear and colourful - they're exquisitely composed, with a sense of 'rightness' and a tautness of balance. This, for example is a magnificent image, worthy of a frame on anyone's wall:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/534731103/original.jpg)
Quote from: Iota on July 23, 2025, 04:09:06 AMWell said!
You are very modest, @owlice, but whatever other people's virtues may or may not be, your photos are vivid and full of life, and although I'm no photographer myself you seem to me to have a very natural ability and indeed an empathy with the subject that communicates itself very captivatingly.
Thank you both, so very much; you are very very kind.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 23, 2025, 12:41:37 AMI live almost as far from London as it's possible to be while still being in England (though the people in Cumbria, yet further north, would scoff at that statement). 10 years ago I'd be in London a couple of times a year, haunting the galleries. And although I have no intention of going gentle into that good night, these days a journey to London is a more daunting prospect than it used to be. Still - will you let me know next time you're coming over here?
Yes, indeed I will!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 23, 2025, 06:57:58 AMIt was never supposed to be a walk when we went out this morning, but we ended up high in the hills, listening to Elgar's 1st symphony in the car, and decided to do a favourite walk after all.
I did not have my camera with me.
The place was almost devoid of birds. No sign of the barn owl that sometimes hangs around. No stonechats, even. A few meadow pipits.
Good job I didn't have the camera, really.
But oh we saw butterflies galore. Whites, lots of meadow browns, a painted lady, a few small coppers, glowing brighter than anyone could sensibly expect , and a couple of ringlets (which I don't recall ever seeing before).
Some people would have had a camera with them, and would now be offering photographs of these creatures. Not me.
But I can show you where we were, using photos from a previous walk:
What a glorious walk, and what scenery!! How lovely the land is.
QuoteI did not have my camera with me.
You made the most of the walk, and that is what matters!
QuoteSome people would have had a camera with them, and would now be offering photographs of these creatures. Not me.
I might have photographs of some of those creatures (you're shocked, I'm certain), but they would not improve your wonderful walk and the sights you beheld.All that, and Elgar, too; what an excellent day!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 23, 2025, 12:51:45 AMThere's a bunch of pigeons on the street. They've been around for years, causing trouble like a Mohock gang in 18th Century London. Or they think they do. Really they just make a lot of fuss and wing-flapping. The truth is they're a bit vacuous. They barge into the garden now and then - all the nice birds fly away - and then they waddle about saying, 'Look at us, we scared 'em off'. Then they don't know what to do, and disappear in a noisy flutter of feathers, and the little birds come back.
Yesterday evening one of these daftosaurs came on his own, and sat on the vacant bird feeder looking silly. Here he is:
Wood Pigeon!! I love these, daftosaurs though you may find them (I am not convinced); we do not have them here. They are SO LARGE for pigeons, so fun to see when one is used to our usual pigeons and doves.
A fabulous capture, with all the bird's lovely colors and vacant express... I mean, clear eye, and commanding presence!
Mostly mountains and corn fields for me today as I drove hour after hour northward. The few birds I saw were mostly House Sparrows, European Starlings, and American Robins, though there were also Killdeer. Oh, one Bald Eagle flying southward above the freeway taking me northward, and vultures, too, along the way.
Since pigeons came up.... some standard-issue feral pigeons:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/181263598/original.jpeg) (https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/525027748/original.jpg)
Though standard issue, ubiquitous, and I suspect rarely given a second glance, I find them pretty in their own right.
No barn owls? :'( I've never seen one live, but have fallen in love with their flat faces and their coloring. They also make me think of one of Janacek's works.
K
Quote from: Kalevala on July 23, 2025, 05:04:32 PMNo barn owls? :'( I've never seen one live, but have fallen in love with their flat faces and their coloring. They also make me think of one of Janacek's works.
K
There is definitely at least one barn owl who hunts on those hills. We saw him fairly often on our walks earlier in the year, up there - always in the distance, never close up. But we haven't seen him for a while now. Maybe the chicks are all grown up and so he doesn't need to hunt in the daytime? I don't know much about their habits. Owlice will know, I'm sure!
Quote from: owlice on July 23, 2025, 03:44:52 PMWood Pigeon!! I love these, daftosaurs though you may find them (I am not convinced); we do not have them here. They are SO LARGE for pigeons, so fun to see when one is used to our usual pigeons and doves.
Yes, he does
look like a wood pigeon, but the gang he hangs out with are as feral as they come, with white heads, and blotchy white and grey/black bits all over the place. There are some proper wood pigeons in the woods down in the valley, but I deduce that this one is a daftosaur just from the company he keeps.
Quote from: owlice on July 23, 2025, 04:21:07 PMSince pigeons came up.... some standard-issue feral pigeons:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/181263598/original.jpeg)
Oh but just look at that fellow. Real nobility. Fantastic character in the attitude, the tilt of the head, the stance. Feral or not, he's a Prince among pigeons. This is what I mean about your photographs: the best ones are not just technically superb, they convey some sense of the character, the essence of the bird. I'm reminded of the work of a sculptor friend of mine who lives on a mountain side in NW Scotland, making animal sculptures, and somehow always capturing what Ruskin called 'the essence of the beast'. I've some photos, somewhere. I'll try to find 'em.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 24, 2025, 12:29:30 AMI've some photos, somewhere. I'll try to find 'em.
Well I took a new photo (see below). His ravens are always inspired by a combination of naturalism and folk mythology. This is the Raven from the Pit.
As I was walking all alane,
I heard twa corbies making a mane;
The tane unto the t'other say,
'Where sall we gang and dine to-day?'This one will have your eyes out before you know it. Scary.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 24, 2025, 08:17:46 AMWell I took a new photo (see below). His ravens are always inspired by a combination of naturalism and folk mythology. This is the Raven from the Pit.
As I was walking all alane,
I heard twa corbies making a mane;
The tane unto the t'other say,
'Where sall we gang and dine to-day?'
This one will have your eyes out before you know it. Scary.
Is this at an art gallery (as in for sale) or in a museum? And who is the artist?
K
Quote from: Kalevala on July 24, 2025, 09:43:03 AMIs this at an art gallery (as in for sale) or in a museum? And who is the artist?
K
The artist is Paul Szeiler. It
was for sale, until my wife bought it from Paul some years ago.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 24, 2025, 10:37:42 AMThe artist is Paul Szeiler. It was for sale, until my wife bought it from Paul some years ago.
Oh, nice! :-)
K
Quote from: Kalevala on July 24, 2025, 11:24:06 AMOh, nice! :-)
K
He has exhibitions quite regularly in Scotland, and we've seen a few. Wolves, owls, wild cats, pine martens ... and ravens, of course. Knowing him has been a terrific privilege.
We have one of his wolves in our garden:
At last! A near-stationary dunnock!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 25, 2025, 12:17:12 AMAt last! A near-stationary dunnock!
Hurrah! Good for you!
It reminds me of the gazillion sparrows that we have around here. They're all very shy, love sitting in hedges, and are quick to startle.
K
Quote from: Kalevala on July 25, 2025, 01:06:31 AMHurrah! Good for you!
It reminds me of the gazillion sparrows that we have around here. They're all very shy, love sitting in hedges, and are quick to startle.
K
The cuddliest thing about dunnocks, I find, is how instantly identifiable they are just from a moment's exposure to the 'jizz'. You sense this movement, for a fraction of a second, and you know it's a dunnock long before you notice the grey head or the shape of the beak. The only thing you can confuse a dunnock with is a mouse. No other
bird is like it. Here's another shot of the little chap who was pottering about this morning.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 24, 2025, 12:29:30 AMOh but just look at that fellow. Real nobility. Fantastic character in the attitude, the tilt of the head, the stance. Feral or not, he's a Prince among pigeons. This is what I mean about your photographs: the best ones are not just technically superb, they convey some sense of the character, the essence of the bird. I'm reminded of the work of a sculptor friend of mine who lives on a mountain side in NW Scotland, making animal sculptures, and somehow always capturing what Ruskin called 'the essence of the beast'. I've some photos, somewhere. I'll try to find 'em.
Well, the character has to come from the bird! And speaking of expression, your description of this fellow is wonderful.
When I was going through that day's photos, this photo, of the same Prince among pigeons, stopped me... because it made me laugh and laugh! Birds often seem to express disapproval of me, so why shouldn't a pigeon be one of them?
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/181263631/original.jpeg)
A friend suggested the bird was thinking, "Weirdo." :laugh:
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 24, 2025, 08:17:46 AMWell I took a new photo (see below). His ravens are always inspired by a combination of naturalism and folk mythology. This is the Raven from the Pit.
As I was walking all alane,
I heard twa corbies making a mane;
The tane unto the t'other say,
'Where sall we gang and dine to-day?'
This one will have your eyes out before you know it. Scary.
Fabulous!!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 24, 2025, 12:26:40 PMWe have one of his wolves in our garden:
WOW. Not just the wolf, but the garden, too, and how well they are together.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 25, 2025, 12:17:12 AMAt last! A near-stationary dunnock!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 25, 2025, 05:11:33 AMThe cuddliest thing about dunnocks, I find, is how instantly identifiable they are just from a moment's exposure to the 'jizz'. You sense this movement, for a fraction of a second, and you know it's a dunnock long before you notice the grey head or the shape of the beak. The only thing you can confuse a dunnock with is a mouse. No other bird is like it. Here's another shot of the little chap who was pottering about this morning.
What an
adorable mouse-osaur!! So cute!! And very nicely captured, not once but twice! Kudos!!
I have nothing new to show; it was more corn fields yesterday. I did see Kestrels, however, at 60 MPH (me, not the birds), first one and then its mate on wires along the road, and later, a Merlin, also on a wire along the road. Oh, and Sandhill Cranes in a field. Not from yesterday, but I can share these views from previous encounters with these cranes, one of only two cranes native to North America; the other is the Whooping Crane, which is the tallest North American bird, and critically endangered.
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/178761291/original.jpeg)
Soarasaurus
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/178762362/original.jpeg)
Parental-offspring-a-sauri
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/176844585/original.jpeg)
Tallasaur, one of the critically imperiled Mississippi Sandhill Cranes
Quote from: owlice on July 25, 2025, 06:49:00 AMWell, the character has to come from the bird! And speaking of expression, your description of this fellow is wonderful.
Thank you for the compliment. But this business about the character: you're right that it comes from the bird - one can't capture what isn't there. But anyone can take a picture that
fails to catch the character of a characterful bird. What we see is that you
do capture it.
I mean, give Gainsborough a Countess to paint, and he'll capture her character. But
he deserves the credit for seeing it and painting it, not the Countess (even if she thinks she does).
QuoteWhen I was going through that day's photos, this photo, of the same Prince among pigeons, stopped me... because it made me laugh and laugh! Birds often seem to express disapproval of me, so why shouldn't a pigeon be one of them?
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/181263631/original.jpeg)
A friend suggested the bird was thinking, "Weirdo." :laugh:
The Prince among pigeons, looking down on you ... I suppose you should be grateful that he notices you
at all. Did you ask him to grant you a boon?
Quote from: owlice on July 25, 2025, 07:51:50 AMI have nothing new to show; it was more corn fields yesterday. I did see Kestrels, however, at 60 MPH (me, not the birds), first one and then its mate on wires along the road, and later, a Merlin, also on a wire along the road. Oh, and Sandhill Cranes in a field. Not from yesterday, but I can share these views from previous encounters with these cranes, one of only two cranes native to North America; the other is the Whooping Crane, which is the tallest North American bird, and critically endangered.
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/178761291/original.jpeg)
Soarasaurus
'We saw a Soarasaurus soar'.
Or if it were injured: 'We saw a sore Soarasaurus soar'.
Quote(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/178762362/original.jpeg)
Parental-offspring-a-sauri
Oh my goodness!! Now this is what I mean. Yes, they are graceful birds, but just look at the relationship you've caught between them; the interwining rhythms; the dynamic balance. There's a sort of sprung tension between the birds that makes me feel that they're moving.
Ruskin once said, about good drawing, that it should catch the importance of 'leading or governing lines' - lines of 'vital truth' which 'are always expressive of the past history and present action of the thing'.
This isn't a drawing, it's a photo, but no matter: all that stuff about leading lines, vital truth, past history and present action, they are all demonstrated here in this fabulous image. If someone had
painted this, we'd say, 'Ah but you'd never find a couple of cranes arranging themselves so perfectly, would you?' Ha!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 25, 2025, 11:11:08 AM'We saw a Soarasaurus soar'.
Or if it were injured: 'We saw a sore Soarasaurus soar'.
Making me look like a maniac, laughing with delight as I am!
QuoteOh my goodness!! Now this is what I mean. Yes, they are graceful birds, but just look at the relationship you've caught between them; the interwining rhythms; the dynamic balance. There's a sort of sprung tension between the birds that makes me feel that they're moving.
You are so kind! Thank you. There was no intent in this, however, except to try to capture the parent and the youth in one shot. I love the golden chevons that outline the juvenile's feathers, and wanted to see whether the gold I saw with my eyes could be captured by the camera. Such lovely birds!
QuoteIf someone had painted this, we'd say, 'Ah but you'd never find a couple of cranes arranging themselves so perfectly, would you?' Ha!
Like monkeys at typewriters, I posit the answer might be "possibly," given the proclivity of these birds to gather in huge numbers. Which brings a question to mind... would any of these photos make a good jigsaw puzzle?
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/542528759/original.jpg)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/542528768/original.jpg)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/542528774/original.jpg)
Quote from: owlice on July 25, 2025, 05:04:23 PMMaking me look like a maniac, laughing with delight as I am!
I rest content! Except to observe that if the injuries of the sore saurasaurus were to get worse, it would become a sorer saurasaurus. But that might be a step too far.
QuoteThere was no intent in this, however, except to try to capture the parent and the youth in one shot.
The question of 'intent' is difficult, I suggest. You have to have chosen the right position, the subject has to be arranged within the view, and then there's the crucial decision of the moment to click. All of this is intuitive, albeit based obviously on a great deal of experience. Then there's maybe a process of selection at the end? So the intent is largely intuitive, I imagine.
QuoteI love the golden chevons that outline the juvenile's feathers, and wanted to see whether the gold I saw with my eyes could be captured by the camera.
I think we can say 'Yes!' to that one.
QuoteLike monkeys at typewriters, I posit the answer might be "possibly," given the proclivity of these birds to gather in huge numbers. Which brings a question to mind... would any of these photos make a good jigsaw puzzle?
Interesting question. We must analyse it. There are those puzzlers (Type A) who require that a jigsaw puzzle be as difficult as possible. They would say yes. But for other jigsaw puzzlers (Type B), the success of the puzzle depends on variety within the image, and the degree to which one becomes involved in the idiosyncracies of the subject as the puzzle develops. They, I think, would say no - too difficult, and insufficent variety. So I think you've probably got about 50% of the jigsaw puzzling market (the Type A puzzlers) with you, here. That could be enough.
Insufficient attention is given to these matters in the academic Jigsaw-Puzzling literature - don't you think?
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 25, 2025, 06:52:25 PMI rest content! Except to observe that if the injuries of the sore saurasaurus were to get worse, it would become a sorer saurasaurus. But that might be a step too far.
The poor sorer soarasaurus! Would a sorer soarasaurus be able to soar?
QuoteThe question of 'intent' is difficult, I suggest. You have to have chosen the right position, the subject has to be arranged within the view, and then there's the crucial decision of the moment to click. All of this is intuitive, albeit based obviously on a great deal of experience. Then there's maybe a process of selection at the end? So the intent is largely intuitive, I imagine.
Or perhaps it is the desire to shoot (with a camera) everything. When trying hard to leave a national wildlife refuge so I could arrive at my (new) campsite before dark, I had to tell myself, "You don't need to shoot every duck!"
Over and over and over again.
I had to make my dinner in the dark.
QuoteInteresting question. We must analyse it. There are those puzzlers (Type A) who require that a jigsaw puzzle be as difficult as possible. They would say yes. But for other jigsaw puzzlers (Type B), the success of the puzzle depends on variety within the image, and the degree to which one becomes involved in the idiosyncracies of the subject as the puzzle develops. They, I think, would say no - too difficult, and insufficent variety. So I think you've probably got about 50% of the jigsaw puzzling market (the Type A puzzlers) with you, here. That could be enough.
Insufficient attention is given to these matters in the academic Jigsaw-Puzzling literature - don't you think?
Absolutely!
A propos of nothing, except that I ran across the image this evening when looking for something else, here is a Cape May Warbler in a cherry tree.
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/509833127/original.jpg)
Cape May, New Jersey is one of the best birding locales in the US. About the name of the bird, Wikipedia says, "The English name refers to Cape May, New Jersey, where George Ord collected the specimen later described by Alexander Wilson. This species was not recorded again in Cape May for another 100 years, although it is now known as an uncommon migrant there."
Quote from: owlice on July 25, 2025, 08:28:29 PMWould a sorer soarasaurus be able to soar?
I never saw a sore saurasaurus unable to soar.
QuoteOr perhaps it is the desire to shoot (with a camera) everything. When trying hard to leave a national wildlife refuge so I could arrive at my (new) campsite before dark, I had to tell myself, "You don't need to shoot every duck!"
I might be catching up now. The thing, for you, is that the bird is pre-eminent. You aren't thinking of what you're doing as 'Art'; the crucial thing is to capture the bird in its most characteristic aspects in the best way possible. If there were a contest between Nature and Art, Nature wins. The photograph is taken for the sake of The Bird, not for the sake of The Art. I, in my amazement, am somewhat losing sight of that, perhaps. I will do better.
QuoteA propos of nothing, except that I ran across the image this evening when looking for something else, here is a Cape May Warbler in a cherry tree.
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/509833127/original.jpg)
Cape May, New Jersey is one of the best birding locales in the US. About the name of the bird, Wikipedia says, "The English name refers to Cape May, New Jersey, where George Ord collected the specimen later described by Alexander Wilson. This species was not recorded again in Cape May for another 100 years, although it is now known as an uncommon migrant there."
And there I am with my new resolution, and you go and plant this fabulous image on here! Well, I shall tailor my response. Here is a fellow I'd like to meet. I don't really care about birds being rare, personally. If there were billions of these in the world, I'd still think he was exquisite. Thank you for showing him to us.
And he is beautifully composed among the twigs and cherry blossom.You didn't see that, right?
Up into the hills again today, armed with camera, in search of stonechats and butterflies. Nary a one. There was life to be seen up there, but not much wildlife. A couple of old friends were there - Red Cloud and Aslan. A few sheep on the skyline. Ingleborough looking prehistoric in the distance. But not a stonechat to be found, and the single meadow brown refused to be photographed.
It has been suggested to me that the best way to see birds and butterflies is to forget to bring your camera.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 26, 2025, 06:06:39 AMI never saw a sore saurasaurus unable to soar.
But what about a sorer soarasaurus? Can a sorer soarasourus be too sore to soar? Surely so!
QuoteI might be catching up now. The thing, for you, is that the bird is pre-eminent. You aren't thinking of what you're doing as 'Art'; the crucial thing is to capture the bird in its most characteristic aspects in the best way possible. If there were a contest between Nature and Art, Nature wins. The photograph is taken for the sake of The Bird, not for the sake of The Art.
Yes, that is nearly exactly correct; the subject is pre-eminent. It is crucial to capture the bird (insect/herp/mammal/etc.) so I can ID it, remember that I saw it, or both. There is no contest! I never think of it as art, ever. It is always for the sake of the subject. Sometimes I am lucky: a bird has perched in an accommodating pose in a flowering tree, or has made a small movement exactly at the time the shutter opened that shows something fun or beautiful or interesting.
No, I must modify my position... it is sometimes possible to hope for a nice shot (not art), one in which the subject is well positioned in the habitat, and to wait for a moment that might provide that shot. So there may be that much planning: I can, and sometimes do, exercise patience. I watched this Impala grazing, and of
course took photos of it doing so, but the radio in my head was repeating, "Please lift your head, please lift your head," until finally, he lifted his head (YAY!) to look behind him (unexpected YAY!).
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/277572234/original.jpeg)
Such a good Impala!This shot was taken with the P950, which I'd gotten just a few days earlier. I was sharing the camera with the guide, and the composition of this pic was inspired by a photo the guide (who had proclaimed he was "bad at photography") had taken earlier of a Hartebeest that was stupendous! His initial photos with the camera were not good because the camera was new to him (whereas, though it was new to me, too, it is very much like the P900), but he learned quickly and well and brought something to his images I don't have: an artist's eye and instinct. By the end of the trip, he was making
art, because he couldn't not do so. I'm just takin' pics! Here's the last photo I took of this beautiful antelope:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/542904754/original.jpg)
Such an elegant pose!! :laugh:
QuoteI, in my amazement, am somewhat losing sight of that, perhaps. I will do better.
You do fine! Better than fine -- you do wonderfully! All the time.
QuoteHere is a fellow I'd like to meet. I don't really care about birds being rare, personally. If there were billions of these in the world, I'd still think he was exquisite. Thank you for showing him to us.
I am certain he would be very pleased to have a lovely chat with you. These are not rare birds; they just don't show up often in the place for which they are named! I have never seen one at Cape May; I have seen them in Ohio and on the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, which is where this little chap was photographed.
QuoteAnd he is beautifully composed among the twigs and cherry blossom.
You didn't see that, right?
You are so kind! And I was very fortunate this wee bird perched where he did! BTW, the cherries are ripe now, and are exceedingly tart.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 26, 2025, 06:17:06 AMUp into the hills again today, armed with camera, in search of stonechats and butterflies. Nary a one. There was life to be seen up there, but not much wildlife. A couple of old friends were there - Red Cloud and Aslan. A few sheep on the skyline. Ingleborough looking prehistoric in the distance. But not a stonechat to be found, and the single meadow brown refused to be photographed.
It has been suggested to me that the best way to see birds and butterflies is to forget to bring your camera.
hahaha! That seems sometimes to be the case!
What lovely old friends! Red Cloud and Aslan look content and wise; how much they have seen! The sheep are cozy, the view is beautiful. How wonderful to have such views and old friends near you!
I went out last evening; there is smoke in the air from Canadian wildfires. The boardwalk was almost completely silent. No Yellowthroats calling; even the Red-winged Blackbirds were quiet. A few Cedar Waxwings, a Sparrow (likely Song), some faraway Goldfinches, a few Mallards that were spooked by something and then fell silent again. It felt like waiting.
Quote from: owlice on July 26, 2025, 11:39:48 AMBut what about a sorer soarasaurus? Can a sorer soarasourus be too sore to soar? Surely so!
Possibly. While researching the subject, I discovered that an hypothesis was once proposed about sorer saurasauruses soaring. But it never got off the ground.
Quote from: owlice on July 26, 2025, 11:39:48 AMHere's the last photo I took of this beautiful antelope:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/542904754/original.jpg)
Such an elegant pose!! :laugh:
Ah, you can laugh. But if you extend the tips of the two bent antlers upwards until their lines intersect with the sloping skyline, and call those points A and B; then extend the line of the thighbone of the antelope's crooked leg similarly upwards, to a point C; then measure the distances AB, BC, and AC, and divide some of them by some of the others, and then take away the number you first thought of, you will discover that they are in the Golden Ratio!! Just like in Poussin's paintings!
Are you asking me to believe this is by chance?
Quote from: owlice on July 26, 2025, 11:39:48 AMI watched this Impala grazing, and of course took photos of it doing so, but the radio in my head was repeating, "Please lift your head, please lift your head," until finally, he lifted his head (YAY!) to look behind him (unexpected YAY!).
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/277572234/original.jpeg)
Such a good Impala!
And such a fabulous photo. I'll settle for 'Wow!'
Look at the grace of the curves of those antlers.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 27, 2025, 12:48:19 AMAh, you can laugh. But if you extend the tips of the two bent antlers upwards until their lines intersect with the sloping skyline, and call those points A and B; then extend the line of the thighbone of the antelope's crooked leg similarly upwards, to a point C; then measure the distances AB, BC, and AC, and divide some of them by some of the others, and then take away the number you first thought of, you will discover that they are in the Golden Ratio!! Just like in Poussin's paintings!
Are you asking me to believe this is by chance?
It definitely was not by my design, and thank you for this delightful (and hilarious) exposition!! A flight of fancy, one that even a not-sore soarasaurus could manage!!
Surely you have read "The Golden Ratio: The Story of PHI, the World's Most Astonishing Number" by Livio? (I have met him once or twice -- not that he is likely to remember -- at concerts.) It has been years since I read it, but I remember liking the book very much.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 27, 2025, 01:11:36 AMAnd such a fabulous photo. I'll settle for 'Wow!'
Look at the grace of the curves of those antlers.
I cannot share the Hartebeest photo the guide took since he owns the copyright (which he found amusing), but it is fabulous and convinced me I should try to do a better job of framing.
Quote from: owlice on July 27, 2025, 04:18:56 AMSurely you have read "The Golden Ratio: The Story of PHI, the World's Most Astonishing Number" by Livio? (I have met him once or twice -- not that he is likely to remember -- at concerts.) It has been years since I read it, but I remember liking the book very much.
No, I haven't read that, though it is a fascinating topic which tends to be abused from time to time. I once read an article purporting to demonstrate that all the prehistoric stone circles in Britain were laid out as geometrical shapes based on the Golden Ratio. And I vaguely remember also about some enterprising mathematician who showed that all the telephone boxes in London were laid out along a perfect logarithmic spiral. (His intention being to show that when it comes to this sort of thing,
if you grant yourself enough degrees of freedom, almost anything can be fitted to almost anything else if you really want it to.)
But nonsense aside: yes, the power, and well-established incidence of Phi is fascinating.
Quote from: owlice on July 26, 2025, 11:39:48 AMYes, that is nearly exactly correct; the subject is pre-eminent. It is crucial to capture the bird (insect/herp/mammal/etc.) so I can ID it, remember that I saw it, or both. There is no contest! I never think of it as art, ever. It is always for the sake of the subject. Sometimes I am lucky: a bird has perched in an accommodating pose in a flowering tree, or has made a small movement exactly at the time the shutter opened that shows something fun or beautiful or interesting.
That's eminently clear, and I get it, and rest assured I'm not going to argue the point. But I am very interested in this fuzzy borderline between art and mere observation. I'm thinking of a letter written by John Ruskin to his father in 1845 (he made drawings every day): 'I consider my sketch only as a written note of certain
facts, & those I put down in the rudest & clearest way as many as possible ... all for information.'
He hardly ever exhibited his work because he maintained he wasn't an artist. The paradox is that today Ruskin is seen as one of the finest watercolour artists of the 19th century. You can see why that fuzzy boundary is so interesting. Where is the transition? How is it defined? Who defines it?
What we
can be sure of is that you take absolutely stunning photographs of birds, and it's a privilege to be able to see them, and discuss them with you.
Quote from: owlice on July 26, 2025, 12:16:47 PMWhat lovely old friends! Red Cloud and Aslan look content and wise; how much they have seen!
I do talk to them hoping to hear wisdom, though the conversations tend to focus on eating grass, most of the time.
QuoteI went out last evening; there is smoke in the air from Canadian wildfires. The boardwalk was almost completely silent. No Yellowthroats calling; even the Red-winged Blackbirds were quiet. A few Cedar Waxwings, a Sparrow (likely Song), some faraway Goldfinches, a few Mallards that were spooked by something and then fell silent again. It felt like waiting.
Lovely. Quietly expectant.
Quote from: owlice on July 27, 2025, 04:18:56 AMA flight of fancy, one that even a not-sore soarasaurus could manage!!
I just found this (I missed it on my first read-through) and I'm still laughing.
Quote from: owlice on July 26, 2025, 12:16:47 PMI went out last evening; there is smoke in the air from Canadian wildfires. The boardwalk was almost completely silent. No Yellowthroats calling; even the Red-winged Blackbirds were quiet. A few Cedar Waxwings, a Sparrow (likely Song), some faraway Goldfinches, a few Mallards that were spooked by something and then fell silent again. It felt like waiting.
I'd like to ask you about this. When you are out there, experiencing something like this description above, or out in earnest, camera in hand, how do you see your relationship with the land and its creatures? Are you outside looking in? Are you an unnatural interloper in a strange land? Or are you a part of all this? - a creature in your own right, seeking engagement with your fellow creatures?
The reason I ask is because I've noticed a change in my perceptions over the years. In my teens I ached to belong to the hills and woods that I explored (mostly driven twofold, by geological and musical impulse). I'd be out there looking for fossils with Elgar playing in my imagination, wanting (in vain) to 'merge' in some way.
Now, many decades later, it's quite a different experience, and relatively new. These local landscapes, so ancient and in many ways remote, now seem to be part of 'my territory'. I'm one of the creatures inhabiting it, along with Aslan, Red Cloud, the lapwings and the small coppers.
You spend far more of your time engaging with the creatures you photograph than I do. How do you feel, when you do it?
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 27, 2025, 05:42:49 AM(His intention being to show that when it comes to this sort of thing, if you grant yourself enough degrees of freedom, almost anything can be fitted to almost anything else if you really want it to.)
This quote has such applicability to current life, it should be posted above the white board in the academy and emblazoned on the sides of buses and trains!
Quote from: Elgarian ReduxYou can see why that fuzzy boundary is so interesting. Where is the transition? How is it defined? Who defines it?
Yes, that boundary is very interesting, and you, sir, are very clever, because of course I'm tempted to say
the viewer! That was well played, and if I had a hat, I would doff it to you! :laugh:
Quote from: Elgarian ReduxWhat we can be sure of is that you take absolutely stunning photographs of birds, and it's a privilege to be able to see them, and discuss them with you.
I am glad you like them and thank you, many times over, for your kind words.
For you, two birds, one Old World and one New World. First, this Little Owl:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/452089132/original.jpeg)
And second, this Broad-billed Hummingbird, taken on a college campus next to a parking garage:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/334662828/original.jpeg)
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 27, 2025, 10:01:15 AMI'd like to ask you about this. When you are out there, experiencing something like this description above, or out in earnest, camera in hand, how do you see your relationship with the land and its creatures? Are you outside looking in? Are you an unnatural interloper in a strange land? Or are you a part of all this? - a creature in your own right, seeking engagement with your fellow creatures?
The reason I ask is because I've noticed a change in my perceptions over the years. In my teens I ached to belong to the hills and woods that I explored (mostly driven twofold, by geological and musical impulse). I'd be out there looking for fossils with Elgar playing in my imagination, wanting (in vain) to 'merge' in some way.
Now, many decades later, it's quite a different experience, and relatively new. These local landscapes, so ancient and in many ways remote, now seem to be part of 'my territory'. I'm one of the creatures inhabiting it, along with Aslan, Red Cloud, the lapwings and the small coppers.
You spend far more of your time engaging with the creatures you photograph than I do. How do you feel, when you do it?
What a lovely post and what interesting and thoughtful feelings and questions! But first, I have to clear something up... most of my shots are quick, because birds are quick! And I do not get many of the shots I attempt; I have loads of pics of vegetation that a split second before had a bird in it. The birds (and most things) are faster than I am. I have little engagement with most of my targets; sometimes, though, a creature before me is willing to stay a little while and allow observation.
You asked: Are you outside looking in? Are you an unnatural interloper in a strange land? Or are you a part of all this? - a creature in your own right, seeking engagement with your fellow creatures?
All of these.
When I was a girl, I wanted to live alone in the woods I frequented and loved so much, so, as you did, I wanted to be part of, belong to, that great nature
1. In early adulthood, as life got busy with other things, the woods seemed far away. When I became a parent, to the woods I went again, with the child, but we were visitors, not part of them. We looked, observed, shared, and then went home.
Now, in a place very familiar to me -- the boardwalks I have mentioned, for example, where I have walked many times the past few summers so have learned where the swallows like to perch en masse and where the kingbird's nest is, what time of day is best for the possibility of seeing a mink, what path through the water the muskrat takes -- I often feel part of all of it, even as I observe. All the creatures I see are also observing.
Double-crested Cormorant watching Canada Geese flying overhead
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/112103804/original.jpg)
But I also go to new places, where I am definitely the outsider looking in, the "unnatural interloper in a strange land", as you put it. I don't know the creatures -- some I've never heard of until I see them and they are identified for me -- nor the land. I want to make their acquaintance!
It seems to me very natural that one who has "local landscapes, so ancient and in many ways remote" should over time feel part of that landscape and see it as 'my territory', because you do inhabit it. You have the familiar, you notice the absence of something that is no longer there. A sense of belonging, of being in the right place... what a deep joy that must bring!
1except for mosquitoes and ticks, both of which have a love for me that is not reciprocated
Such a lot of fascinating stuff here to mull over before replying.
While I am mulling, I'll attach a photo taken yesterday, up where the curlews cry. There was a notable absence of winged creatures once more, but then suddenly two small fluttery things flew up out of the long grass, and away, finally perching on a distant dead tree. Goldfinches? That was the best bet, but based only on a suspected flash of yellow. The tree was a long way off, but they seemed to be staying still. I thought the photo would show merely two blurry little blobs of coloured fluff, but I was luckier than that.
Kaleidosauruses.
Quote from: owlice on July 27, 2025, 08:41:48 PMYes, that boundary is very interesting, and you, sir, are very clever, because of course I'm tempted to say the viewer! That was well played, and if I had a hat, I would doff it to you! :laugh:
I am glad you like them and thank you, many times over, for your kind words.
What you're getting is just my response as it happens. I'd be glad to be kind if it were necessary, but as it is it's just an honest response to magnificent photographs of fabulous birds.
Could I talk a bit more about that fuzzy boundary? Some years ago I had some lengthy conversations with an artist, Briony Clarke, who'd devised a thing she called a Seafax. She had a sensor attached to a buoy floating far out in the Atlantic Ocean, which bobbed up and down with the waves, and transmitted a signal recording this motion, via satellite, to Briony's Seafax. This Seafax was a tank full of water with a paddle, the paddle being driven by the received signal. She put sheets of paper into the water, sprinkled some black oily ink into the water, and then let it happen, inviting the ocean to make art.
The resulting images knocked me sideways. I don't think she'll mind if I post two of them here, because I'm extracting them from an article I wrote about her work. There are mysterious step-like features ('stairways to heaven' she once called them), and vortices - strange black holes that seem bottomless. I never saw one of these images that wasn't beautiful. Art from the ocean.
'But
is it art?'
Briony thought it was. I think it is too. I don't know what the ocean thinks about it.
QuoteFor you, two birds, one Old World and one New World. First, this Little Owl:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/452089132/original.jpeg)
Oh gosh. He is
peeping!QuoteAnd second, this Broad-billed Hummingbird, taken on a college campus next to a parking garage:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/334662828/original.jpeg)
Bedazzling! The
colours!
Quote from: owlice on July 27, 2025, 10:23:23 PMWhat a lovely post and what interesting and thoughtful feelings and questions! But first, I have to clear something up... most of my shots are quick, because birds are quick! And I do not get many of the shots I attempt; I have loads of pics of vegetation that a split second before had a bird in it. The birds (and most things) are faster than I am. I have little engagement with most of my targets; sometimes, though, a creature before me is willing to stay a little while and allow observation.
Yes I see that. When you're photographing the bird, all your attention must be on that. Philosophising about whether you're engaged in art would seem to be a good way to ensure you don't get the shot!
QuoteYou asked: Are you outside looking in? Are you an unnatural interloper in a strange land? Or are you a part of all this? - a creature in your own right, seeking engagement with your fellow creatures?
All of these.
I think I expected that answer. I think it would be inevitable.
QuoteWhen I was a girl, I wanted to live alone in the woods I frequented and loved so much, so, as you did, I wanted to be part of, belong to, that great nature1. In early adulthood, as life got busy with other things, the woods seemed far away. When I became a parent, to the woods I went again, with the child, but we were visitors, not part of them. We looked, observed, shared, and then went home.
This seems very familiar to me.
QuoteNow, in a place very familiar to me -- the boardwalks I have mentioned, for example, where I have walked many times the past few summers so have learned where the swallows like to perch en masse and where the kingbird's nest is, what time of day is best for the possibility of seeing a mink, what path through the water the muskrat takes -- I often feel part of all of it, even as I observe. All the creatures I see are also observing.
Yes of course! I hadn't thought of that. You are
all observing.
QuoteDouble-crested Cormorant watching Canada Geese flying overhead
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/112103804/original.jpg)
'Where's my camera?' wailed the cormorant.
QuoteBut I also go to new places, where I am definitely the outsider looking in, the "unnatural interloper in a strange land", as you put it. I don't know the creatures -- some I've never heard of until I see them and they are identified for me -- nor the land. I want to make their acquaintance!
And as you become familiar with these new places, presumably you become less and less of an interloper?
QuoteIt seems to me very natural that one who has "local landscapes, so ancient and in many ways remote" should over time feel part of that landscape and see it as 'my territory', because you do inhabit it. You have the familiar, you notice the absence of something that is no longer there. A sense of belonging, of being in the right place...
It sort of crept up on us unawares as our acquaintance grew, and there came a day when we suddenly noticed it and talked about it. 'Hey, we are
in this big story!'
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 28, 2025, 04:43:51 AMWhat you're getting is just my response as it happens. I'd be glad to be kind if it were necessary, but as it is it's just an honest response to magnificent photographs of fabulous birds.
Could I talk a bit more about that fuzzy boundary? Some years ago I had some lengthy conversations with an artist, Briony Clarke, who'd devised a thing she called a Seafax. She had a sensor attached to a buoy floating far out in the Atlantic Ocean, which bobbed up and down with the waves, and transmitted a signal recording this motion, via satellite, to Briony's Seafax. This Seafax was a tank full of water with a paddle, the paddle being driven by the received signal. She put sheets of paper into the water, sprinkled some black oily ink into the water, and then let it happen, inviting the ocean to make art.
The resulting images knocked me sideways. I don't think she'll mind if I post two of them here, because I'm extracting them from an article I wrote about her work. There are mysterious step-like features ('stairways to heaven' she once called them), and vortices - strange black holes that seem bottomless. I never saw one of these images that wasn't beautiful. Art from the ocean.
(https://www.good-music-guide.com/community/index.php?action=dlattach;attach=124507;image;thumb)
'But is it art?'
Briony thought it was. I think it is too. I don't know what the ocean thinks about it.
Those are indeed very beautiful!
Quote from: Iota on July 28, 2025, 11:04:02 AMThose are indeed very beautiful!
Really pleased you like them. They're so unaccountably unfathomable. I find I stare into them feeling that I should find some sort of
meaning, but they are inscrutable.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 28, 2025, 12:21:28 PMReally pleased you like them. They're so unaccountably unfathomable. I find I stare into them feeling that I should find some sort of meaning, but they are inscrutable.
I'd find them beautiful anyway, but my appreciation for them was enhanced by their back-story. The idea of the ocean 'dictating' the art like the human unconscious, was very appealing to me.
Quote from: Iota on July 29, 2025, 01:44:52 AMI'd find them beautiful anyway, but my appreciation for them was enhanced by their back-story. The idea of the ocean 'dictating' the art like the human unconscious, was very appealing to me.
I believe the artist would be delighted with that response. She saw her role as a kind of facilitator for the 'creativity' of the ocean, and wanted to eliminate her own selectivity as far as possible. The idea evolved a good deal, year on year: her first Seafax was a black perspex box with a long roll of paper. She left it on the sand in the path of the incoming tide, and when the sea reached it, the upwash of the waves drove a paddle that gradually unrolled the paper into the water chamber. I can't remember how she got the ink in there - I think she did it manually with a dropper.
The result was called a 'Sea Scroll'. They were fabulous - I have one hanging on the door behind me as I write this. One of my treasures.
We were listening to Elgar's cello concerto today, and as always I find myself thinking about Elgar's favourite cellist Beatrice Harrison, who famously played her cello to the accompaniment of nightingales singing in her garden:
Beatrice Harrison with nightingales (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QPxT95WwIBM&list=RDQPxT95WwIBM&start_radio=1)
I think I'm persuaded that the nightingales were responding to her music, though I can't hear any significant correlation between their song and what Beatrice is playing. Can anyone?
However, I have noticed that if I play sing and play guitar in the garden, the birds do seem to respond. Again, there's no musical correlation that I can hear, but they do 'join in'. For all I know their songs might effectively mean 'Oh shut up will you?'
We used to get cows in the field at the bottom of the garden, and they were guaranteed to come and peer over the hedge if I started playing. My wife captured one such moment - see below. What on earth was all that about? I never knew. But see how attentive they were! Best audience I ever had.
Loving the discussion and photos (WOW) in the odd moments from the siege I can peer in; will be back when the siege is less siege-y.
Quote from: owlice on July 29, 2025, 05:24:02 AMLoving the discussion and photos (WOW) in the odd moments from the siege I can peer in; will be back when the siege is less siege-y.
When I read this my imagination became full of ballistas, broken battlements, and splintering drawbridges. I presume your actual seige is a gentler one?
Strange I keep trying to post a much longer reply than this, but keep being told it's a Forbidden Error. Will try again later.
Quote from: Iota on July 29, 2025, 11:16:02 AMStrange I keep trying to post a much longer reply than this, but keep being told it's a Forbidden Error. Will try again later.
A similar thing happened to me yesterday. An hour later it was OK.
Meanwhile we await the pleasure of your observations!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 29, 2025, 11:39:15 AMA similar thing happened to me yesterday. An hour later it was OK.
Meanwhile we await the pleasure of your observations!
Haha, it's more like you're temporarily granted the pleasure of their absence. Will try again though.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 29, 2025, 03:52:22 AMThe result was called a 'Sea Scroll'.
Haha, apart from anything else she's quite a dab hand at amusing puns as names for her devices.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 29, 2025, 04:23:41 AMWe were listening to Elgar's cello concerto today, and as always I find myself thinking about Elgar's favourite cellist Beatrice Harrison, who famously played her cello to the accompaniment of nightingales singing in her garden:
Beatrice Harrison with nightingales (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QPxT95WwIBM&list=RDQPxT95WwIBM&start_radio=1)
I think I'm persuaded that the nightingales were responding to her music, though I can't hear any significant correlation between their song and what Beatrice is playing. Can anyone?
However, I have noticed that if I play sing and play guitar in the garden, the birds do seem to respond. Again, there's no musical correlation that I can hear, but they do 'join in'. For all I know their songs might effectively mean 'Oh shut up will you?'
We used to get cows in the field at the bottom of the garden, and they were guaranteed to come and peer over the hedge if I started playing. My wife captured one such moment - see below. What on earth was all that about? I never knew. But see how attentive they were! Best audience I ever had.
(https://www.good-music-guide.com/community/index.php?action=dlattach;attach=124539;image;thumb)
Hahaha, that's absolutely hilarious, what a great photo! They really do look utterly bewitched by your playing! Clearly cows with good taste!
(Strangely appropriately for this forum, that photo also seems to have echoes of the cliche about VW's music of 'cows looking over a gate' too .. perhaps by design?)
I don't hear any connection in the Beatrice Harrison clip, but it does seem a rather serene little duet between the species.
(If anybody's interested I just removed an emoji and the post was no longer Forbidden.)
Quote from: Iota on July 29, 2025, 12:20:57 PMHahaha, that's absolutely hilarious, what a great photo! They really do look utterly bewitched by your playing! Clearly cows with good taste!
(Strangely appropriately for this forum, that photo also seems to have echoes of the cliche about VW's music of 'cows looking over a gate' too .. perhaps by design?)
Design would be nice, but it was pure fluke. My wife was watching from the kitchen window, grabbed her phone [did you see one of Owlice's eyebrows lift, just then?], and there it was, captured forever. The story would be better if the cows starting mooing in harmony with the song, but they didn't, sadly.
QuoteI don't hear any connection in the Beatrice Harrison clip, but it does seem a rather serene little duet between the species.
Has anyone done a study of the musical quality of bird song? Is it actually musical in any meaningful sense, or is it just 'sounds'? If I think of that delightful descending trill of the willow warbler, I hear it as a lovely liquid sound, and I could even describe it as 'musical' - but I think that would be metaphorical rather than factual.
Quote(If anybody's interested I just removed an emoji and the post was no longer Forbidden.)
I wonder if it means that emojis are now regarded as evil by the board software?
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 29, 2025, 04:23:41 AMWe used to get cows in the field at the bottom of the garden, and they were guaranteed to come and peer over the hedge if I started playing. My wife captured one such moment - see below. What on earth was all that about? I never knew. But see how attentive they were! Best audience I ever had.
Did they request Atom Heart Mother? ;D
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 29, 2025, 12:49:32 PMDesign would be nice, but it was pure fluke. My wife was watching from the kitchen window, grabbed her phone [did you see one of Owlice's eyebrows lift, just then?], and there it was, captured forever.
Nonetheless, a striking image!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 29, 2025, 12:49:32 PMI wonder if anyone has done a study of the musical quality of bird song? Is it actually musical in any meaningful sense, or is it just 'sounds'? If I think of that delightful descending trill of the willow warbler, I hear it as a lovely liquid sound, and I could even describe it as 'musical' - but I think that would be metaphorical rather than factual.
I imagine Messiaen would have been an intriguing person to pose that question to. I must say I generally love what he does with bird song in his music, but I know it's not for everybody.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 29, 2025, 12:49:32 PMI wonder if it means that emojis are now regarded as evil by the board software?
Well the software has certainly deemed them verboten for me tonight.
Quote from: Papy Oli on July 29, 2025, 01:19:54 PMDid they request Atom Heart Mother? ;D
They wanted to know if there'd be a reissue, and if so, could they pose for the new cover?
Quote from: Iota on July 29, 2025, 01:21:50 PMI imagine Messiaen would have been an intriguing person to pose that question to. I must say I generally love what he does with bird song in his music, but I know it's not for everybody.
I'm one of the people it isn't for, I'm sorry to say - so I probably wouldn't understand his reply. But I was wondering about Wagner's Woodbird in
Siegfried, where the music does call to mind some of the characteristics of birdsong. But then it
is clearly music, and the actual birdsong that inspired it isn't, I think. The question is beyond me, really.
Up on the moor again this morning. Quite a strong breeze, so almost impossible to get anything to stay still. Shot after shot of blurry blobosauruses (or nothing at all), but there was a meadow pipit who stayed on a bit of wire for just long enough. Doesn't really matter - it's just marvellous up there.
We'd driven up listening to Elgar's violin sonata. You look out over the hills as you listen, and it breaks your heart.
Still under siege, I'm swinging by to let you know about the following newly-named asteroids, as you will surely recognize at least some of the names:
(56018) Yujawang = 1998 VH4
Discovery: 1998-11-11 / ODAS / Caussols / 910
Yuja Wang (b. 1987) is a Chinese American pianist known for her virtuosity and unique
interpretative style. Born in Beijing, she began studying piano at the Beijing Conservatory
before continuing her education at the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia. Wang has
received numerous awards and has collaborated with major orchestras and conductors.
(56067) Argerich = 1998 YH2
Discovery: 1998-12-17 / ODAS / Caussols / 910
Martha Argerich (b. 1941) is a world-renowned Argentine pianist celebrated for her
virtuosity and passionate performances. She began playing the piano at an early age and
trained both in her home country and in Europe. Her unique style and energetic stage
presence have made her an iconic figure in contemporary classical music.
(56095) Buniatishvili = 1999 BL6
Discovery: 1999-01-20 / ODAS / Caussols / 910
Khatia Buniatishvili (b. 1987) is a renowned Georgian pianist celebrated for her
exceptional technique and musical expressiveness. Born in Tbilisi, she displayed
prodigious talent for the piano from a young age. Khatia has received numerous awards
and performed with leading orchestras worldwide, establishing herself as a prominent
figure in classical music.
(56170) Rolandovillazón = 1999 FK6
Discovery: 1999-03-17 / ODAS / Caussols / 910
Rolando Villazón (b. 1972) is a renowned Mexican-French tenor celebrated for his
powerful voice and emotional expressiveness. He has performed in prestigious opera
houses like La Scala and the Met. Villazón is known for his interpretations of works by
Verdi, Puccini, and Mozart, establishing himself as a prominent figure in classical music
and opera.
(56172) Véroniquesanson = 1999 FD7
Discovery: 1999-03-20 / ODAS / Caussols / 910
Véronique Sanson (b. 1949) is a French singer-songwriter, regarded as one of the most
influential voices in Francophone music. Blending pop, rock, and chanson, she explores
themes of love and heartbreak, leaving an indelible mark on French music throughout her
career.
WGSBN Bull. 5, #17
(58606) Charlestrenet = 1997 TF27
Discovery: 1997-10-04 / ODAS / Caussols / 910
Charles Trenet (1913–2001) was a French singer-songwriter and composer, renowned
as one of the greatest interpreters of French chanson. His works, including classics like
"La Mer" and "Boum!", blend poetry and melody. Trenet's legacy endures in music,
continuing to inspire generations.
Quote from: owlice on July 30, 2025, 07:53:19 PMStill under siege, I'm swinging by to let you know about the following newly-named asteroids, as you will surely recognize at least some of the names:
(56018) Yujawang = 1998 VH4
Discovery: 1998-11-11 / ODAS / Caussols / 910
Yuja Wang (b. 1987) is a Chinese American pianist known for her virtuosity and unique
interpretative style. Born in Beijing, she began studying piano at the Beijing Conservatory
before continuing her education at the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia. Wang has
received numerous awards and has collaborated with major orchestras and conductors.
(56067) Argerich = 1998 YH2
Discovery: 1998-12-17 / ODAS / Caussols / 910
Martha Argerich (b. 1941) is a world-renowned Argentine pianist celebrated for her
virtuosity and passionate performances. She began playing the piano at an early age and
trained both in her home country and in Europe. Her unique style and energetic stage
presence have made her an iconic figure in contemporary classical music.
(56095) Buniatishvili = 1999 BL6
Discovery: 1999-01-20 / ODAS / Caussols / 910
Khatia Buniatishvili (b. 1987) is a renowned Georgian pianist celebrated for her
exceptional technique and musical expressiveness. Born in Tbilisi, she displayed
prodigious talent for the piano from a young age. Khatia has received numerous awards
and performed with leading orchestras worldwide, establishing herself as a prominent
figure in classical music.
(56170) Rolandovillazón = 1999 FK6
Discovery: 1999-03-17 / ODAS / Caussols / 910
Rolando Villazón (b. 1972) is a renowned Mexican-French tenor celebrated for his
powerful voice and emotional expressiveness. He has performed in prestigious opera
houses like La Scala and the Met. Villazón is known for his interpretations of works by
Verdi, Puccini, and Mozart, establishing himself as a prominent figure in classical music
and opera.
(56172) Véroniquesanson = 1999 FD7
Discovery: 1999-03-20 / ODAS / Caussols / 910
Véronique Sanson (b. 1949) is a French singer-songwriter, regarded as one of the most
influential voices in Francophone music. Blending pop, rock, and chanson, she explores
themes of love and heartbreak, leaving an indelible mark on French music throughout her
career.
WGSBN Bull. 5, #17
(58606) Charlestrenet = 1997 TF27
Discovery: 1997-10-04 / ODAS / Caussols / 910
Charles Trenet (1913–2001) was a French singer-songwriter and composer, renowned
as one of the greatest interpreters of French chanson. His works, including classics like
"La Mer" and "Boum!", blend poetry and melody. Trenet's legacy endures in music,
continuing to inspire generations.
Nice to know that Villazon and Argerich (the only two I know) are contributing to the music of the spheres. But it's not all gain from the cool names point of view: 1998YH2 and 1999FK6 were pretty far out.
Out this morning to spend a few hours with our daughter's family, who are holidaying by a nearby lake, and far off I could see some duckosauruses that I couldn't identify. The photos were really just a matter of point, click, and hope, but just look at these guys. Great-crested grebe with its spectacular stripey juveniles, one of the shots catching - purely by chance - a spot of successful fishing. Dodgy photos (and over-sharpened) but weirdly gratifying.
Quote from: owlice on July 30, 2025, 07:53:19 PMStill under siege, I'm swinging by to let you know about the following newly-named asteroids, as you will surely recognize at least some of the names:
(56018) Yujawang = 1998 VH4
Discovery: 1998-11-11 / ODAS / Caussols / 910
Yuja Wang (b. 1987) is a Chinese American pianist known for her virtuosity and unique
interpretative style. Born in Beijing, she began studying piano at the Beijing Conservatory
before continuing her education at the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia. Wang has
received numerous awards and has collaborated with major orchestras and conductors.
(56067) Argerich = 1998 YH2
Discovery: 1998-12-17 / ODAS / Caussols / 910
Martha Argerich (b. 1941) is a world-renowned Argentine pianist celebrated for her
virtuosity and passionate performances. She began playing the piano at an early age and
trained both in her home country and in Europe. Her unique style and energetic stage
presence have made her an iconic figure in contemporary classical music.
(56095) Buniatishvili = 1999 BL6
Discovery: 1999-01-20 / ODAS / Caussols / 910
Khatia Buniatishvili (b. 1987) is a renowned Georgian pianist celebrated for her
exceptional technique and musical expressiveness. Born in Tbilisi, she displayed
prodigious talent for the piano from a young age. Khatia has received numerous awards
and performed with leading orchestras worldwide, establishing herself as a prominent
figure in classical music.
(56170) Rolandovillazón = 1999 FK6
Discovery: 1999-03-17 / ODAS / Caussols / 910
Rolando Villazón (b. 1972) is a renowned Mexican-French tenor celebrated for his
powerful voice and emotional expressiveness. He has performed in prestigious opera
houses like La Scala and the Met. Villazón is known for his interpretations of works by
Verdi, Puccini, and Mozart, establishing himself as a prominent figure in classical music
and opera.
(56172) Véroniquesanson = 1999 FD7
Discovery: 1999-03-20 / ODAS / Caussols / 910
Véronique Sanson (b. 1949) is a French singer-songwriter, regarded as one of the most
influential voices in Francophone music. Blending pop, rock, and chanson, she explores
themes of love and heartbreak, leaving an indelible mark on French music throughout her
career.
WGSBN Bull. 5, #17
(58606) Charlestrenet = 1997 TF27
Discovery: 1997-10-04 / ODAS / Caussols / 910
Charles Trenet (1913–2001) was a French singer-songwriter and composer, renowned
as one of the greatest interpreters of French chanson. His works, including classics like
"La Mer" and "Boum!", blend poetry and melody. Trenet's legacy endures in music,
continuing to inspire generations.
Hello. Hope that you are enjoying your vacation.
By the way, I think that you posted this in the wrong thread (vs. astronomy one). :)
K
The siege has ended so now I have a little time for birds (and possibly a short nap). So much to respond to!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 28, 2025, 12:38:14 AMI thought the photo would show merely two blurry little blobs of coloured fluff, but I was luckier than that.
Kaleidosauruses.
A lovely shot of exotic Kaleidosauruses! And it shows off your camera very well, too; the birds are clear, though they are far away.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 28, 2025, 04:43:51 AMCould I talk a bit more about that fuzzy boundary? Some years ago I had some lengthy conversations with an artist, Briony Clarke, who'd devised a thing she called a Seafax.
...
The resulting images knocked me sideways. I don't think she'll mind if I post two of them here, because I'm extracting them from an article I wrote about her work. There are mysterious step-like features ('stairways to heaven' she once called them), and vortices - strange black holes that seem bottomless. I never saw one of these images that wasn't beautiful. Art from the ocean.
'But is it art?'
Have we not already determined -- or at least hinted -- that it is the viewer who decides? The sea might like a vote here but cannot speak except here in movement, where it has been quietly eloquent.
The inset image looks nearly biological to me.
Quote from: Iota on July 29, 2025, 01:44:52 AMI'd find them beautiful anyway, but my appreciation for them was enhanced by their back-story. The idea of the ocean 'dictating' the art like the human unconscious, was very appealing to me.
Yes, this was appealing to me, too, in part for the creativity of the idea and its execution.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 28, 2025, 05:09:49 AMYes I see that. When you're photographing the bird, all your attention must be on that. Philosophising about whether you're engaged in art would seem to be a good way to ensure you don't get the shot!
Indeed!! And as I have so many ways to not get the shot, I do not need to add to that list!!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 28, 2025, 05:09:49 AMYou are all observing.
'Where's my camera?' wailed the cormorant.
hahahaha!!! Oh, that's great!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 29, 2025, 04:23:41 AMWe used to get cows in the field at the bottom of the garden, and they were guaranteed to come and peer over the hedge if I started playing. My wife captured one such moment - see below. What on earth was all that about? I never knew. But see how attentive they were! Best audience I ever had.
I love this!!!
Quote from: Iota on July 29, 2025, 12:20:57 PMHahaha, that's absolutely hilarious, what a great photo! They really do look utterly bewitched by your playing!
^ All of that!!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 29, 2025, 06:22:13 AMWhen I read this my imagination became full of ballistas, broken battlements, and splintering drawbridges. I presume your actual seige is a gentler one?
No blood was drawn, but some of it might have been inconvenienced. That surely means the siege was gentler than what came to your mind!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 30, 2025, 06:02:00 AMUp on the moor again this morning. Quite a strong breeze, so almost impossible to get anything to stay still. Shot after shot of blurry blobosauruses (or nothing at all), but there was a meadow pipit who stayed on a bit of wire for just long enough. Doesn't really matter - it's just marvellous up there.
We'd driven up listening to Elgar's violin sonata. You look out over the hills as you listen, and it breaks your heart.
Beautiful pipit in a beautiful place!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on July 31, 2025, 05:28:07 AMOut this morning to spend a few hours with our daughter's family, who are holidaying by a nearby lake, and far off I could see some duckosauruses that I couldn't identify. The photos were really just a matter of point, click, and hope, but just look at these guys. Great-crested grebe with its spectacular stripey juveniles, one of the shots catching - purely by chance - a spot of successful fishing. Dodgy photos (and over-sharpened) but weirdly gratifying.
Oooooooooohhhh!!! Not dodgy at all, and
you got grebes!!! Baby stripy grebes, and one of them being fed, at that!!! Wow!!!
I have scarcely been out; Canada is still burning, the plume is still here, and the air outside has been deemed unhealthy for sensitive groups (not that I am in a sensitive group). I did, however, meet a grad student on campus a few evenings ago; we sat on the library patio to watch for hummingbirds and saw ... one. One who flew in, looked around for the briefest of time, and flew away. No camera effort were expended, as its visit was so short.
Oh well. It was still lovely to sit there; the smoke was elsewhere that day, the temperature was comfortable, and campus was very quiet. We knew a Grey Catbird had a nest nearby, but we were unsuccessful in locating it (from a distance, as we didn't want to stress the bird).
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/545940170/original.jpg)
We were also entertained by squirrels and chipmunks who occasionally came by to harvest rose hips.
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/545940098/original.jpg)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/545940094/original.jpg)
Tomorrow, I hope to spend some time outside.
And I will take my camera. :)
Quote from: owlice on August 01, 2025, 11:38:39 AMI have scarcely been out; Canada is still burning, the plume is still here, and the air outside has been deemed unhealthy for sensitive groups (not that I am in a sensitive group). I did, however, meet a grad student on campus a few evenings ago; we sat on the library patio to watch for hummingbirds and saw ... one. One who flew in, looked around for the briefest of time, and flew away. No camera effort were expended, as its visit was so short.
Oh well. It was still lovely to sit there; the smoke was elsewhere that day, the temperature was comfortable, and campus was very quiet. We knew a Grey Catbird had a nest nearby, but we were unsuccessful in locating it (from a distance, as we didn't want to stress the bird).
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/545940170/original.jpg)
We were also entertained by squirrels and chipmunks who occasionally came by to harvest rose hips.
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/545940098/original.jpg)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/545940094/original.jpg)
Tomorrow, I hope to spend some time outside.
And I will take my camera. :)
Sorry to hear about the smoke problems, that must be really difficult! Hope it clears soon.
What captivating photos those are! How piercing the eyes of both the Catbird and chipmunk are, like black onyx, the blackness seems almost bottomless! It seems particularly intense in the Catbird, it's quite hypnotic!
I've written a long post, but the board software says I'm 'FORBIDDEN' to post it. So I've saved the text and will try again tomorrow.
It still won't let me submit my long post. How frustrating. What do I do? Break it into small sections and post them one at a time? Off to bed for now.
Quote from: owlice on August 01, 2025, 10:58:33 AMThe siege has ended so now I have a little time for birds (and possibly a short nap). So much to respond to!
I was never quite sure exactly what the siege was (Did I miss something you said? Was I obtuse?), but I presume you were trapped somewhere, in some way, by wildfires. Were you significantly at risk? I hope not! At any rate, it's very good to see you back here.
Quote from: owlice on August 01, 2025, 10:58:33 AMHave we not already determined -- or at least hinted -- that it is the viewer who decides?
Well you did suggest that, and I might feel inclined to agree with you in principle, but what happens when different viewers reach different conclusions (as they surely do)? And does the artist have no say in whether his or her art is art? I'm not at all sure that there's a clear answer.
Quote from: owlice on August 01, 2025, 10:58:33 AMThe inset image looks nearly biological to me.
I enlarged the black hole/vortex to see if there was structure within it, but I thought the experiment inconclusive. The holes retained their mystique.
QuoteYes, this was appealing to me, too, in part for the creativity of the idea and its execution.
I spent months - years - thinking about it, looking at it, writing articles about it, talking to Briony about it, and giving lectures on it, and my admiration simply grew throughout the process. Quite overwhelmed, some of the time. My daughter wrote to her asking if she could make something for me for my birthday, and Briony sent a lovely folder, containing about a dozen seafaxes. (Bear in mind that a seafax has two completely different sides.) The mystery multiplied.
One thing that seems relevant is the need to recognise that 'art' is understood to exist across a very wide spectrum when it comes to the input of the artist. At one end is the highly intrusive injection of the artist's temperament or character - I'm thinking of painters like Van Gogh. At the other is the virtual elimination of it in religious icon paintings, which are regarded as
acheiropoietai, 'things made without hands'. The ideal icon (I am informed) is painted as if it were not made by an individual painter at all. Seems to me that the Seafaxes fall at that extreme end (
acheiropoietai) of the artistic spectrum. And, bringing the discussion smoothly back on topic, this is the area where some of the wonderful bird photographs we've been seeing here might fall: at that same far end of the artistic spectrum: almost not art, but capable of affecting us as art, regardless.
Quote from: owlice on August 01, 2025, 10:58:33 AMOooooooooohhhh!!! Not dodgy at all, and you got grebes!!! Baby stripy grebes, and one of them being fed, at that!!! Wow!!!
But you see, I didn't know they were grebes. At that distance I just couldn't tell what they were (there were mallards and coots all over the place, and all I knew was that they were not like them), and the whole thing was an amazing fluke. I just gasped when the images came up on my computer.
[*Getting this all posted felt almost like a life's work - posting it in pieces, constantly getting the FORBIDDEN notice, and deleting stuff until it became permitted. There was no pattern that I could discern!]
Quote from: owlice on August 01, 2025, 11:38:39 AMI have scarcely been out; Canada is still burning, the plume is still here, and the air outside has been deemed unhealthy for sensitive groups (not that I am in a sensitive group). I did, however, meet a grad student on campus a few evenings ago; we sat on the library patio to watch for hummingbirds and saw ... one. One who flew in, looked around for the briefest of time, and flew away. No camera effort were expended, as its visit was so short.
Oh well. It was still lovely to sit there; the smoke was elsewhere that day, the temperature was comfortable, and campus was very quiet. We knew a Grey Catbird had a nest nearby, but we were unsuccessful in locating it (from a distance, as we didn't want to stress the bird).
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/545940170/original.jpg)
'From a distance', eh? What a lovely photograph, with the bird actually seeming to be shy.
QuoteWe were also entertained by squirrels and chipmunks who occasionally came by to harvest rose hips.
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/545940098/original.jpg)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/545940094/original.jpg)
The eyes!
QuoteTomorrow, I hope to spend some time outside.
And I will take my camera. :)
Yes. That's the advice I would give to any young person starting out in life. I wouldn't be seen outside without one, as you know.
In desperation, I've switched from Firefox to Edge. See how that goes.
Addendum: AND I've now reported the problem in the bug report thread. That'll show 'em!
Least Sandpipers
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/546679285/original.jpg)
There are at least two birds in this photo:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/546679874/original.jpg)
Vesper Sparrow
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/546680263/original.jpg)
Quote from: owlice on August 02, 2025, 08:49:02 PMLeast Sandpipers
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/546679285/original.jpg)
Rare! And Small!
QuoteThere are at least two birds in this photo:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/546679874/original.jpg)
And at least 5 million bits of rock.
QuoteVesper Sparrow
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/546680263/original.jpg)
Cheepy and chirpy! Yet looking strangely
knowing.
Quote from: owlice on August 02, 2025, 08:49:02 PMThere are at least two birds in this photo:
I can find two, but no more:
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 02, 2025, 11:45:17 PMI can find two, but no more:
The Winner and Still Champion: Elgarian Redux!!!! Congrats!!!!
Also: "5 million rocks and 2 birds" hahahaha!!! Oh, that's great!!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 01, 2025, 10:33:33 PMBut you see, I didn't know they were grebes. At that distance I just couldn't tell what they were (there were mallards and coots all over the place, and all I knew was that they were not like them), and the whole thing was an amazing fluke. I just gasped when the images came up on my computer.
I gasped when I saw them, too! Such wonderful captures!!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 01, 2025, 10:33:33 PM[*Getting this all posted felt almost like a life's work - posting it in pieces, constantly getting the FORBIDDEN notice, and deleting stuff until it became permitted. There was no pattern that I could discern!]
How aggravatingly annoying!
I needs must run to the punctuation store for more exclamation points; I'm running low on them.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 01, 2025, 11:12:29 PM...with the bird actually seeming to be shy.
You understand the bird very well; it was indeed shy. We knew a nest had to be nearby; during a previous visit to the patio, the grad student and I observed the catbird calling incessantly. Someone else had brought her dog and had taken a seat in that corner of the library patio. The bird was clearly upset by this, and fell silent only after those visitors left.
Quote from: owlice on August 03, 2025, 04:15:19 AMI needs must run to the punctuation store for more exclamation points; I'm running low on them.
Well this is more than my job's worth, but ... look, I have this box under the counter:
! ! ! ! ? ? ? ? . . . ! ! ! ? ? ? ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ? ? ? ? ? ? ;;;;;;; ,,,,,, ::::::
Take as many as you can use, but don't tell anyone where you got 'em, OK?
Quote from: owlice on August 03, 2025, 04:08:48 AMThe Winner and Still Champion: Elgarian Redux!!!! Congrats!!!!
I am proud to accept this Championship medal, and would like to thank, from the bottom of my binoculars, my family - who, when I was but a lad, did so much to help me become World Expert in counting birds and rocks.
QuoteAlso: "5 million rocks and 2 birds" hahahaha!!! Oh, that's great!!
Can we now have a photo with 5 million birds and two rocks, please?
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 03, 2025, 04:55:09 AMWell this is more than my job's worth, but ... look, I have this box under the counter:
! ! ! ! ? ? ? ? . . . ! ! ! ? ? ? ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ? ? ? ? ? ? ;;;;;;; ,,,,,, ::::::
Take as many as you can use, but don't tell anyone where you got 'em, OK?
Thank you, sir!! I can exclaim once more!!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 03, 2025, 05:08:55 AMI am proud to accept this Championship medal, and would like to thank, from the bottom of my binoculars, my family - who, when I was but a lad, did so much to help me become World Expert in counting birds and rocks.
Can we now have a photo with 5 million birds and two rocks, please?
The previous jigsaw puzzle contender photos won't do? I'm sure there are a couple of rocks in at least one of those shots!
When I left to drive the 17 minutes to yesterday's birding walk, the sky was a flat grey-brown with the perfect deep orange circle of the sun hanging well above the horizon in the eastern sky; the sun had been up for over an hour. The sky had no depth; it appeared as if two-dimensional. Near birds seem almost pasted on the smoky sky.
Bald Eagle
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/546843956/original.jpg)
Eventually, the brown mostly faded, leaving behind the flat grey.
Great Blue Heron
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/546680448/original.jpg)
Not the best lighting for photography, but the birds didn't seem to mind and carried on with their usual birdy tasks, including landing in foliage on which my camera likes to focus, because why should it focus on the bird when the foliage is
right there?!
Savannah Sparrow
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/546680138/original.jpg)
Quote from: owlice on August 03, 2025, 04:27:19 AMYou understand the bird very well; it was indeed shy. We knew a nest had to be nearby; during a previous visit to the patio, the grad student and I observed the catbird calling incessantly. Someone else had brought her dog and had taken a seat in that corner of the library patio. The bird was clearly upset by this, and fell silent only after those visitors left.
This morning I had an encounter with a bird who definitely
wasn't shy. Mrs Pheasant arrived in the garden, knowing perfectly well that she was looking sleek and desirable, and apparently up for a photo op. My camera was on a table, 3 yards away. It took me five seconds, no more, to grab the camera and hoick it out of its case. Search, point, finger poised... and there she was, just in the process of
leaving the garden through the pheasant-sized hole in the hedge. As she left, I swear she looked over her shoulder and winked. 'You had your chance, Mister.'
Quote from: Iota on August 01, 2025, 12:16:45 PMWhat captivating photos those are! How piercing the eyes of both the Catbird and chipmunk are, like black onyx, the blackness seems almost bottomless! It seems particularly intense in the Catbird, it's quite hypnotic!
Iota, I give you the perfect void of a Rattling Cisticola's open beak:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/270801864/original.jpeg)
When I saw this photo, I thought something had gone wrong, but that black circle of seeming nothingness, which looks so odd, so unnatural, is real.
No light can escape; these birds have miniature black holes within them.
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/315124365/original.jpeg)
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 03, 2025, 05:34:03 AMThis morning I had an encounter with a bird who definitely wasn't shy. Mrs Pheasant arrived in the garden, knowing perfectly well that she was looking sleek and desirable, and apparently up for a photo op. My camera was on a table, 3 yards away. It took me five seconds, no more, to grab the camera and hoick it out of its case. Search, point, finger poised... and there she was, just in the process of leaving the garden through the pheasant-sized hole in the hedge. As she left, I swear she looked over her shoulder and winked. 'You had your chance, Mister.'
Ah, she was shy after all!
You keep your camera in a
case?!? :laugh:
I mostly jest. My camera often rests in a camera bag; the camera bag is usually unzipped, however, unless it is being moved such as to the car or back into the house. Birds are fast; we've gotta be faster!
Quote from: owlice on August 03, 2025, 05:52:24 AMAh, she was shy after all!
Not a bit!
Provocative, I call it!!
QuoteYou keep your camera in a case?!? :laugh:
I mostly jest. My camera often rests in a camera bag; the camera bag is usually unzipped, however, unless it is being moved such as to the car or back into the house. Birds are fast; we've gotta be faster!
Well yes, but you're a Pro. I'm just an amateur, sporadic birder. Besides, the camera is so small that if I didn't put it in its case, I'd lose it.
Quote from: owlice on August 03, 2025, 05:46:55 AMIota, I give you the perfect void of a Rattling Cisticola's open beak:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/270801864/original.jpeg)
When I saw this photo, I thought something had gone wrong, but that black circle of seeming nothingness, which looks so odd, so unnatural, is real.
No light can escape; these birds have miniature black holes within them.
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/315124365/original.jpeg)
Extraordinary! The depth of blackness! I suppose if you get close, you start to experience weird time-dilation effects?
Quote from: owlice on August 03, 2025, 05:32:16 AMWhen I left to drive the 17 minutes to yesterday's birding walk, the sky was a flat grey-brown with the perfect deep orange circle of the sun hanging well above the horizon in the eastern sky; the sun had been up for over an hour. The sky had no depth; it appeared as if two-dimensional. Near birds seem almost pasted on the smoky sky.
Bald Eagle
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/546843956/original.jpg)
Eventually, the brown mostly faded, leaving behind the flat grey.
Strange, almost unearthly atmosphere. None too healthy for the eagles, I guess?
QuoteNot the best lighting for photography, but the birds didn't seem to mind and carried on with their usual birdy tasks, including landing in foliage on which my camera likes to focus, because why should it focus on the bird when the foliage is right there?!
My camera is over-fond of foliage too.
QuoteSavannah Sparrow
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/546680138/original.jpg)
Glorious. How do you get those superbly rich colours? Is it because the sun is nearly always shining, or is it, again, 'The Camera'?
Quote from: owlice on August 03, 2025, 05:32:16 AMThe previous jigsaw puzzle contender photos won't do?
Haha, that's exactly what I thought when I read Elgarian's comment! I loved those photos! They seem so long ago now!
Quote from: owlice on August 03, 2025, 05:32:16 AMWhen I left to drive the 17 minutes to yesterday's birding walk, the sky was a flat grey-brown with the perfect deep orange circle of the sun hanging well above the horizon in the eastern sky; the sun had been up for over an hour. The sky had no depth; it appeared as if two-dimensional. Near birds seem almost pasted on the smoky sky.
Bald Eagle
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/546843956/original.jpg)
Eventually, the brown mostly faded, leaving behind the flat grey.
Great Blue Heron
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/546680448/original.jpg)
Not the best lighting for photography, but the birds didn't seem to mind and carried on with their usual birdy tasks, including landing in foliage on which my camera likes to focus, because why should it focus on the bird when the foliage is right there?!
Savannah Sparrow
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/546680138/original.jpg)
Those are sensational shots yet again,
@owlice! The Heron looking to me particularly like it's just flown in from Jurassic Park, and the Savannah Sparrow just a masterful and bewitching ensemble of textures and colours! Bravo!
Quote from: owlice on August 03, 2025, 05:32:16 AMThe previous jigsaw puzzle contender photos won't do? I'm sure there are a couple of rocks in at least one of those shots!
Well I can see that to the casual rock & bird observer, it might seem so. But while I can identify twigs, water, areas of sandy silty stuff, and even bits of birds that look like rocks, I cannot identify a single definite rock in those pictures. But y'know, this is like the old problem of trying to prove there isn't a spider in the room: although a single spider sighting would prove the opposite, total arachnid
absence is very difficult to be conclusive about.
Quote from: Iota on August 03, 2025, 08:39:44 AMThose are sensational shots yet again, @owlice! The Heron looking to me particularly like it's just flown in from Jurassic Park, and the Savannah Sparrow just a masterful and bewitching ensemble of textures and colours! Bravo!
Quoted for truth, as they say.
(Who
does say that, actually? I've seen Karl say it a bit, but has it broader origins?)*
*I just looked it up, and discovered that it's general internet slang (not just an
@Karl Henning -ism), often abbreviated to QFT. Well, I Never Did. [Which may be abbreviated to WIND, if anyone so wishes.]
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 03, 2025, 06:02:29 AMWell yes, but you're a Pro. I'm just an amateur, sporadic birder. Besides, the camera is so small that if I didn't put it in its case, I'd lose it.
I am also an amateur, sporadic viewer-of-wildlife. In my experience/life, having a case is no guarantee against losing something...
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 03, 2025, 06:05:26 AMExtraordinary! The depth of blackness! I suppose if you get close, you start to experience weird time-dilation effects?
I have never been close enough to one of these miniature black holes to find out! The depth of blackness amazes me; it just doesn't look real, possible! Other birds also have miniature black holes inside their beaks, but out of the many birds I've seen, the number of species exhibiting this complete void is very small.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 03, 2025, 06:15:11 AMHow do you get those superbly rich colours? Is it because the sun is nearly always shining, or is it, again, 'The Camera'?
The camera, and the magic of iPhoto's "auto enhance" button. :laugh:
Quote from: Iota on August 03, 2025, 08:39:44 AMHaha, that's exactly what I thought when I read Elgarian's comment! I loved those photos! They seem so long ago now!
Those are sensational shots yet again, @owlice! The Heron looking to me particularly like it's just flown in from Jurassic Park, and the Savannah Sparrow just a masterful and bewitching ensemble of textures and colours! Bravo!
Thank you,
@Iota; you're very kind. The Heron had indeed just flown in! From where, other than to the right of where I was, I don't know.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 03, 2025, 10:08:53 AMBut y'know, this is like the old problem of trying to prove there isn't a spider in the room: although a single spider sighting would prove the opposite, total arachnid absence is very difficult to be conclusive about.
You had to put that thought in my head, did you?! Exactly the sort of thing one should not think of late at night!
Quote from: owlice on August 05, 2025, 07:04:11 AMI am also an amateur, sporadic viewer-of-wildlife.
I need to be more careful with my terminology. What I should have said is
You take photos like a Pro (i.e they are outstandingly fine). But truly you're far more committed and skilful than I. I did most of my semi-serious birding during the 1970s. Under the strong influence of a bird-watching poet friend, I got myself to the not-very-advanced point where the watching of birds could become an inherent part of my enjoyment of wherever I might be. Since then I've rested on my laurels: I don't go off hunting rarities, for instance, and I've forgotten how many species were once on my tick list. (I no longer
have a tick list. It wasn't impressive, even when I did.) But the pay-off, for the rest of my life, was that recognising and watching birds in landscape became an important part of being there. A 'fellow creatures' sort of feeling.
QuoteIn my experience/life, having a case is no guarantee against losing something...
How about keeping the camera case in a camera case case, then? But I suppose on further thought that it would merely be adding to the list of potentially lost things.
QuoteYou had to put that thought in my head, did you?! Exactly the sort of thing one should not think of late at night!
Well you see (he said, innocently, trying not to laugh), when I wrote that important piece of arachnophilosophy it was daylight.
Very high winds and rain here for the last couple of days, so no gentle walks in the hills, and consequently no bird reports to make. Even in the garden the wind has kept most of them away.
A birdie with a yellow rump
Hopped up from the hollow stump
Cocked his coal-black eye and said...
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/425212565/original.jpeg)
Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird
Quote from: owlice on August 05, 2025, 02:33:13 PMA birdie with a yellow rump
Hopped up from the hollow stump
Cocked his coal-black eye and said...
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/425212565/original.jpeg)
Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird
"Come now, let us all make merry!
Why not help me eat this berry?
Don't you love my stripey head?"
Flutt'ring wings, they danced and partied
Through the day till, heavy-hearted,
All the birds went home to bed.
In the morning, up jumped Tinker
(Such an enterprising thinker):
"Shall we do it all again?" ...
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 05, 2025, 11:32:27 PM"Come now, let us all make merry!
Why not help me eat this berry?
Don't you love my stripey head?"
Flutt'ring wings, they danced and partied
Through the day till, heavy-hearted,
All the birds went home to bed.
In the morning, up jumped Tinker
(Such an enterprising thinker):
"Shall we do it all again?" ...
A thousand kudos to you, Elgarian Redux, for these most delightful verses!!
I hope your weather has improved enough to allow the birds to return to your garden and the hills to call you to them again.
Quote from: owlice on August 06, 2025, 05:08:22 AMA thousand kudos to you, Elgarian Redux, for these most delightful verses!!
No, no - I just kicked the ball you'd splendidly tossed up in the air. It really needs another verse with the last line rhyming with 'again', but inspiration failed me. So we'll never know if they did it again or not.
QuoteI hope your weather has improved enough to allow the birds to return to your garden and the hills to call you to them again.
Still windy but no rain, so up we went, accompanied for part of the way by a couple of friendly reed buntings. Here's Mrs Buntosaurus:
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 05, 2025, 10:04:44 AMI don't go off hunting rarities, for instance, and I've forgotten how many species were once on my tick list. (I no longer have a tick list. It wasn't impressive, even when I did.) But the pay-off, for the rest of my life, was that recognising and watching birds in landscape became an important part of being there. A 'fellow creatures' sort of feeling.
I also don't hunt rarities, though I do see them sometimes simply because I am where they are. And I don't keep a life list, though iNaturalist, to which I upload many of my [photo] observations (as that site would put it) might serve as one, except that there are many birds I have seen that I have not photographed.
I once observed a man who drove 1,000 miles for a three-day visit to a wildlife refuge for the sole purpose of seeing a rare bird (rare because the bird was out of its usual range). He trudged, lugging an impressive array of equipment (except for the times a kind stranger offered to carry it when it was clear the man was struggling from fatigue), from before dawn to nightfall, and did not see his target bird.
So much effort, and he went home unhappy, despite the other ~400 bird species around him! That strengthened my resolve to be happy with whatever I see, and to not hang my joy on any one particular sighting. It's all at least good, and this is why I have literally thousands of photos of Mallards, Red-winged Blackbirds, and other very very common birds.
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/461082658/original.jpeg)
Once you see the dog face on a Mallard beak, it's hard to unsee it. (https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/203584632/original.jpeg)
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 05, 2025, 10:04:44 AMWell you see (he said, innocently, trying not to laugh), when I wrote that important piece of arachnophilosophy it was daylight.
It was daylight when I read it, but the possibility of recalling it at night is not the non-zero it was before I read it!!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 06, 2025, 06:11:27 AMNo, no - I just kicked the ball you'd splendidly tossed up in the air. It really needs another verse with the last line rhyming with 'again', but inspiration failed me. So we'll never know if they did it again or not.
I was mangling RL Stevenson (my apologies to him); you, sir, mangled no verse, and instead, wrangled splendid lines in reply!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 06, 2025, 06:11:27 AMStill windy but no rain, so up we went, accompanied for part of the way by a couple of friendly reed buntings. Here's Mrs Buntosaurus:
Mrs. Buntosaurus is beautiful, and captured so beautifully, I literally got goose (buntosaurus?) bumps. What a lovely little bird! Thank you for sharing her.
Quote from: owlice on August 06, 2025, 06:14:45 AMI also don't hunt rarities, though I do see them sometimes simply because I am where they are. And I don't keep a life list, though iNaturalist, to which I upload many of my [photo] observations (as that site would put it) might serve as one, except that there are many birds I have seen that I have not photographed.
I once observed a man who drove 1,000 miles for a three-day visit to a wildlife refuge for the sole purpose of seeing a rare bird (rare because the bird was out of its usual range). He trudged, lugging an impressive array of equipment (except for the times a kind stranger offered to carry it when it was clear the man was struggling from fatigue), from before dawn to nightfall, and did not see his target bird.
So much effort, and he went home unhappy, despite the other ~400 bird species around him!
Such a sad tale! Poor chap.
QuoteThat strengthened my resolve to be happy with whatever I see, and to not hang my joy on any one particular sighting. It's all at least good, and this is why I have literally thousands of photos of Mallards, Red-winged Blackbirds, and other very very common birds.
That wide-angled joy in the birds comes through many of the comments you make. (Am I being fanciful if I say it seems to come through your photos too?)
QuoteOnce you see the dog face on a Mallard beak, it's hard to unsee it.
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/461082658/original.jpeg)
Well, that's a giant-sized perception-shift for me, as far as the mallard is concerned!
QuoteIt was daylight when I read it, but the possibility of recalling it at night is not the non-zero it was before I read it!!
Still trying to figure this out ....
I forgot to mention that when we got back in the car we had a smashing view of a hare tootling around, quite near, twitching his ears in a most 'why not photograph me?' attitude.
But the camera was .... in the boot. Ho hum.
Quote from: owlice on August 06, 2025, 06:14:45 AM(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/203584632/original.jpeg)
What is this lovely bird, please,
@owlice? I don't know it.
In the morning, up jumped Tinker
(Such an enterprising thinker):
"Shall we do it all again?"
"Yes indeed!" said Mrs Bunting,
"Out of berries! Let's go hunting!"
"I'll come too!" squeaked Jenny Wren.
[This thing has a life of its own.]
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 05, 2025, 10:04:44 AMI need to be more careful with my terminology. What I should have said is You take photos like a Pro (i.e they are outstandingly fine). But truly you're far more committed and skilful than I. I did most of my semi-serious birding during the 1970s. Under the strong influence of a bird-watching poet friend, I got myself to the not-very-advanced point where the watching of birds could become an inherent part of my enjoyment of wherever I might be. Since then I've rested on my laurels: I don't go off hunting rarities, for instance, and I've forgotten how many species were once on my tick list. (I no longer have a tick list. It wasn't impressive, even when I did.) But the pay-off, for the rest of my life, was that recognising and watching birds in landscape became an important part of being there. A 'fellow creatures' sort of feeling.
How about keeping the camera case in a camera case case, then? But I suppose on further thought that it would merely be adding to the list of potentially lost things.
Well you see (he said, innocently, trying not to laugh), when I wrote that important piece of arachnophilosophy it was daylight.
In my experience, time spent with birds is well invested.
Quote from: owlice on August 06, 2025, 06:14:45 AMI once observed a man who drove 1,000 miles for a three-day visit to a wildlife refuge for the sole purpose of seeing a rare bird (rare because the bird was out of its usual range). He trudged, lugging an impressive array of equipment (except for the times a kind stranger offered to carry it when it was clear the man was struggling from fatigue), from before dawn to nightfall, and did not see his target bird.
So much effort, and he went home unhappy, despite the other ~400 bird species around him! That strengthened my resolve to be happy with whatever I see, and to not hang my joy on any one particular sighting. It's all at least good, and this is why I have literally thousands of photos of Mallards, Red-winged Blackbirds, and other very very common birds.
Poor guy! The price for putting all your eggs in one basket can be very high sometimes ! (Apologies for the cheesily avian metaphor ::))
Quote from: owlice on August 06, 2025, 06:14:45 AM(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/461082658/original.jpeg)
Once you see the dog face on a Mallard beak, it's hard to unsee it.
Hahaha, so true!
Quote from: owlice on August 06, 2025, 06:14:45 AMIt was daylight when I read it, but the possibility of recalling it at night is not the non-zero it was before I read it!!
When I was in my twenties I was going out with a girl, and got home one night about 3.00am to find her standing on a chair in the middle of a brightly lit room, she'd been there for hours! She had told me she was scared of spiders but this was the first time I'd witnessed to what extent. At the time it was surprising because in all other respects she was a dynamic, highly self-confident person, but obviously that was irrelevant in terms of her phobia. Anyway since then I am far more aware of what phobias can do to peoples lives.
Quote from: Iota on August 06, 2025, 07:37:40 AMPoor guy! The price for putting all your eggs in one basket can be very high sometimes ! (Apologies for the cheesily avian metaphor ::))
Hahaha, so true!
When I was in my twenties I was going out with a girl, and got home one night about 3.00am to find her standing on a chair in the middle of a brightly lit room, she'd been there for hours! She had told me she was scared of spiders but this was the first time I'd witnessed to what extent. At the time it was surprising because in all other respects she was a dynamic, highly self-confident person, but obviously that was irrelevant in terms of her phobia. Anyway since then I am far more aware of what phobias can do to peoples lives.
"A spider the size of a Buick!"
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 06, 2025, 06:46:30 AMWhat is this lovely bird, please, @owlice?
A female Red-winged Blackbird. I also think them lovely.
(Am working; more later.)
(ETA: The irony of retired me working does not escape me. Someone somewhere is laughing, I am sure.)
I suddenly saw a way to closure:
The Tinkerbird's Party
By R.L. Stevenson (may he forgive us),
Owlice (Chief Photographic Officer and Ideas Manager),
Elgarian (Chief Doggerel Monger),
and Iota (Chief Protocol Adviser)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/425212565/original.jpeg)
A birdie with a yellow rump
Hopped up from the hollow stump
Cocked his coal-black eye and said:
"Come now, let us all make merry!
Why not help me eat this berry?
Don't you love my stripey head?"
Flutt'ring wings, they danced and partied
Through the day till, heavy-hearted,
All the birds went home to bed.
In the morning, up jumped Tinker
(Such an enterprising thinker):
"Shall we do it all again?"
"Yes indeed!" said Mrs Bunting,
"Out of berries! Let's go hunting!"
"I'll come too!" squeaked Jenny Wren.
Big on berries, loud with laughter,
They were happy ever after.
Ta-daaaa!
Quote from: owlice on August 06, 2025, 08:29:36 AMA female Red-winged Blackbird. I also think them lovely.
Gorgeous bird. Would never have guessed at the name!
Quote(Am working; more later.)
(ETA: The irony of retired me working does not escape me. Someone somewhere is laughing, I am sure.)
I'm not laughing, but I'm chuckling a bit, and nodding with understanding.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 06, 2025, 10:07:30 AMI suddenly saw a way to closure:
The Tinkerbird's Party
By R.L. Stevenson, Owlice (Chief Photographic Officer), and Elgarian
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/425212565/original.jpeg)
A birdie with a yellow rump
Hopped up from the hollow stump
Cocked his coal-black eye and said...
"Come now, let us all make merry!
Why not help me eat this berry?
Don't you love my stripey head?"
Flutt'ring wings, they danced and partied
Through the day till, heavy-hearted,
All the birds went home to bed.
In the morning, up jumped Tinker
(Such an enterprising thinker):
"Shall we do it all again?"
"Yes indeed!" said Mrs Bunting,
"Out of berries! Let's go hunting!"
"I'll come too!" squeaked Jenny Wren.
Big on berries, loud with laughter,
They all were happy ever after.
Ta-daaaa!
Haha, bravo,
@Elgarian Redux! Alongside Owlice's title I think it's only fair that you now assign yourself a well-deserved 'Chief Poetry Officer'!
Quote from: Iota on August 06, 2025, 10:21:05 AMHaha, bravo, @Elgarian Redux! Alongside Owlice's title I think it's only fair that you now assign yourself a well-deserved 'Chief Poetry Officer'!
I beat you to it, and had already edited the post! Look again!
Now we just have to put it to music and sing it.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 06, 2025, 10:26:39 AMI beat you to it, and had already edited the post! Look again!
Now we just have to put it to music and sing it.
Oh, haha, great minds etc! However, despite its catchiness, I think you do yourself down, with your new title ..
Quote from: Iota on August 06, 2025, 10:34:30 AMOh, haha, great minds etc! However, despite its catchiness, I think you do yourself down, with your new title ..
Chief Doggerel Monger then? I think you should be there too, now, as Chief Protocol Adviser. Just sharing the guilt around.
I found this interesting article about the first sighting of a red-winged blackbird in the UK (in 2017):
https://www.audubon.org/news/british-birders-chartered-private-flights-see-europes-first-red-winged-blackbird
K
Quote from: Kalevala on August 06, 2025, 11:12:37 AMI found this interesting article about the first sighting of a red-winged blackbird in the UK (in 2017):
https://www.audubon.org/news/british-birders-chartered-private-flights-see-europes-first-red-winged-blackbird
K
Thanks for this. I don't think I'll be seeing one anytime soon, sadly ...
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 06, 2025, 12:16:28 PMThanks for this. I don't think I'll be seeing one anytime soon, sadly ...
You never know. If a male one also managed to come over around the same time--or within the lifespan of that female....
I'm fortunate in that they like the conditions around here and I've often seen and/or heard them. Love those bright red and gold bands on them. :)
This is a sweet story (I often check out the Dodo on YT) of a bird catching a lift:
K
Quote from: Kalevala on August 06, 2025, 03:54:09 PMYou never know. If a male one also managed to come over around the same time--or within the lifespan of that female....
I'm fortunate in that they like the conditions around here and I've often seen and/or heard them. Love those bright red and gold bands on them. :)
This is a sweet story (I often check out the Dodo on YT) of a bird catching a lift:
K
I am not sentimental about birds, but that video is extraordinary and gave me a catch in the throat! Thank you.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 06, 2025, 10:50:33 AMChief Doggerel Monger then? I think you should be there too, now, as Chief Protocol Adviser. Just sharing the guilt around.
Oh, 'Assistant Birdwatcher Watcher' will do me just fine I think. 8)
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 06, 2025, 10:07:30 AMI suddenly saw a way to closure:
The Tinkerbird's Party
By R.L. Stevenson (may he forgive us),
Owlice (Chief Photographic Officer and Ideas Manager),
Elgarian (Chief Doggerel Monger),
and Iota (Chief Protocol Adviser)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/425212565/original.jpeg)
A birdie with a yellow rump
Hopped up from the hollow stump
Cocked his coal-black eye and said:
"Come now, let us all make merry!
Why not help me eat this berry?
Don't you love my stripey head?"
Flutt'ring wings, they danced and partied
Through the day till, heavy-hearted,
All the birds went home to bed.
In the morning, up jumped Tinker
(Such an enterprising thinker):
"Shall we do it all again?"
"Yes indeed!" said Mrs Bunting,
"Out of berries! Let's go hunting!"
"I'll come too!" squeaked Jenny Wren.
Big on berries, loud with laughter,
They were happy ever after.
Ta-daaaa!
Ta-daaaa indeed -- this is splendid!! Very well done, brilliant Elgarian, and kudos to you for seeing it through!!
Such delights, birds and verse, and birds in verse as well!!
Kalevala's post re: the Red-winged Blackbird brought home to my pea brain that these birds are only in North America. DOH! I see them so often and in such numbers I'd forgotten they aren't everywhere; my apologies! (I feel quite stupid now! I wish I could say it's an odd sensation, but it is far more common to me than even Red-winged Blackbirds are, alas.)
I have already posted a pic of a female specimen; here are a few more photos to go with that one, and yes, only the male is black:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/202615931/original.jpeg)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/201071873/original.jpeg)
Classic over-the-shoulder Vogue shot(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/212659416/original.jpeg)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/498074004/original.jpeg)
As the last photo suggests, these birds favor swampy/reedy areas; even small swampy/reedy areas are enough for them. The main U.S. Department of the Interior building in Washington, DC has a small man-made wet habitat area in front of it, enough to sustain a few ducks and nesting Red-winged Blackbirds. I've also seen an occasional Great Blue Heron in it, and once, a Red-tailed Hawk feeding on a Mallard (with resident Mallards looking on in, well, probably horror, and definitely anxiety, from the other side of the small space).
Red-winged Blackbirds (RWB) defend their nesting territory with vigor, as some workmen discovered one day as they left the Department of Interior; they had thought it funny when one guy some 10 or 12 paces in front of them walked too close to this small habitat and was dive-bombed by an angry blackbird. They stopped laughing when they made the same mistake and were hit repeatedly by the bird. :laugh: (I worked nearby and was walking to my car to feed the meter... on the other side of the street, because I'd had my own run-in with that same bird.)
Wow, more images that just leap off the page, brilliant,
@owlice!
Quote from: owlice on August 07, 2025, 02:54:39 AM(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/201071873/original.jpeg)
Classic over-the-shoulder Vogue shot
Haha, excellent, that really made me laugh!
(Whenever I try to use a laugh emoji I get the 'Forbidden' message, so have to articulate it each time .. ::))
Quote from: owlice on August 07, 2025, 02:54:39 AMAs the last photo suggests, these birds favor swampy/reedy areas; even small swampy/reedy areas are enough for them. The main U.S. Department of the Interior building in Washington, DC has a small man-made wet habitat area in front of it, enough to sustain a few ducks and nesting Red-winged Blackbirds. I've also seen an occasional Great Blue Heron in it, and once, a Red-tailed Hawk feeding on a Mallard (with resident Mallards looking on in, well, probably horror, and definitely anxiety, from the other side of the small space).
Blimey!
A while ago I was driving in London, when on the other side of the road a raven swooped down on a pigeon that had only just (very bloodily) been run over, and was already devouring it before it had properly died. A real 'nature red in tooth and claw' moment, and for one who is not often exposed to such things, really quite shocking.
Quote from: owlice on August 07, 2025, 02:54:39 AMRed-winged Blackbirds (RWB) defend their nesting territory with vigor, as some workmen discovered one day as they left the Department of Interior; they had thought it funny when one guy some 10 or 12 paces in front of them walked too close to this small habitat and was dive-bombed by an angry blackbird. They stopped laughing when they made the same mistake and were hit repeatedly by the bird. :laugh: (I worked nearby and was walking to my car to feed the meter... on the other side of the street, because I'd had my own run-in with that same bird.)
Blimey again! I've noticed birds can punch well above their weight when defending their nests, I remember seeing footage of Arctic Terns (I think) seeing off a polar bear with dive-bombing tactics. Fearless and stirring stuff!
Quote from: Iota on August 07, 2025, 03:38:04 AM(Whenever I try to use a laugh emoji I get the 'Forbidden' message, so have to articulate it each time .. ::))
When you click on the emoji, is it rendered as : laugh : (with the colons next to the word rather than spaces) in the draft text? Weird that you can use other emojis but not that one!
Quote from: Iota on August 07, 2025, 03:38:04 AMA while ago I was driving in London, when on the other side of the road a raven swooped down on a pigeon that had only just (very bloodily) been run over, and was already devouring it before it had properly died. A real 'nature red in tooth and claw' moment, and for one who is not often exposed to such things, really quite shocking.
Wow! I suppose the raven might be credited with shortening the length of the pigeon's agony, though intensifying it quite a bit for the shortened duration. (Gruesome!)
Quote from: Iota on August 07, 2025, 03:38:04 AMBlimey again! I've noticed birds can punch well above their weight when defending their nests, I remember seeing footage of Arctic Terns (I think) seeing off a polar bear with dive-bombing tactics. Fearless and stirring stuff!
Yes! Smaller birds also force larger birds to move away from their territory (or just in general because the larger bird is in general a danger), either alone or through mobbing (group) behavior.
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/548919089/original.jpg)
Red-winged Blackbird harassing a Bald Eagle; the eagle has a fish in its talons. Right-clicking on the image should give you a larger view.
Quote from: owlice on August 07, 2025, 02:54:39 AMTa-daaaa indeed -- this is splendid!! Very well done, brilliant Elgarian, and kudos to you for seeing it through!!
I'm not a fan of football (i.e. soccer) at all, but sometimes football terminology is helpfully illustrative. Eg: if player A kicks the ball from the wing into the centre, to player B who is standing in front of the goal, and if B then taps the ball into the net, then B has scored the goal, but A actually
made the goal possible. So the way I see it is that I tapped the ball into the net, but you set it all up with the photo and the original idea. I think we can all bask in whatever scraps of glory can be rescued from the debris.
QuoteKalevala's post re: the Red-winged Blackbird brought home to my pea brain that these birds are only in North America. DOH! I see them so often and in such numbers I'd forgotten they aren't everywhere; my apologies! (I feel quite stupid now! I wish I could say it's an odd sensation, but it is far more common to me than even Red-winged Blackbirds are, alas.)
I have already posted a pic of a female specimen; here are a few more photos to go with that one, and yes, only the male is black:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/202615931/original.jpeg)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/201071873/original.jpeg)
Classic over-the-shoulder Vogue shot
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/212659416/original.jpeg)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/498074004/original.jpeg)
Fantastic images of a fantastic bird - one I'd never even heard of. It doesn't seem to bear any resemblance to the cheerful common British Blackbird (which, sensibly to my mind, really is completely black - or at least, the male is).
QuoteRed-winged Blackbirds (RWB) defend their nesting territory with vigor, as some workmen discovered one day as they left the Department of Interior; they had thought it funny when one guy some 10 or 12 paces in front of them walked too close to this small habitat and was dive-bombed by an angry blackbird. They stopped laughing when they made the same mistake and were hit repeatedly by the bird. :laugh: (I worked nearby and was walking to my car to feed the meter... on the other side of the street, because I'd had my own run-in with that same bird.)
Then again, British
black blackbirds seem to be gentler souls, often seen pottering in a friendly manner around gardens, or picnic tables in outdoor cafes. I suppose worms would take a dimmer view of them though.
These photos are mind-bogglingly fine, Owlice. In the top image, doesn't he look
determined!
Quote from: Iota on August 07, 2025, 03:38:04 AMA while ago I was driving in London, when on the other side of the road a raven swooped down on a pigeon that had only just (very bloodily) been run over, and was already devouring it before it had properly died. A real 'nature red in tooth and claw' moment, and for one who is not often exposed to such things, really quite shocking.
Back into the blood-chilling mode of traditional folk song: 'Twa Corbies'.
Many find female RWBs difficult to ID; they look like so many other brownish birds! For me, the ability to ID them, after so many difficulties, snapped into place one day, and suddenly, pretty much no other bird looked like these.
If only that worked for all the LBJ sparrows... !
Here's an award-winning photo (NOT MY IMAGE!) of a Red-winged Blackbird, and hold onto your socks: https://www.audubon.org/magazine/2019-audubon-photography-awards-winners
(https://media.audubon.org/web_gp_aud_kathrin-swoboda_red-winged-blackbird_amateur.jpg?width=1400&auto=webp&quality=90&fit=bounds&disable=upscale)
Quote from: owlice on August 07, 2025, 07:21:48 AMWhen you click on the emoji, is it rendered as : laugh : (with the colons next to the word rather than spaces) in the draft text? Weird that you can use other emojis but not that one!
Yes, that's exactly how it appears, and has done since this started happening a few days ago. I've tried it each time I visited the forum and it was always that one emoji that caused the Forbidden alert, but rather spookily I just tried it again and lo and behold ... :laugh: - it's back! It's as if all it takes is quick question from owlice, and all your problems will be solved. That's quite a gift you have there, I may be back to consult you on various other issues .. ;)
Quote from: owlice on August 07, 2025, 07:21:48 AMYes! Smaller birds also force larger birds to move away from their territory (or just in general because the larger bird is in general a danger), either alone or through mobbing (group) behavior.
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/548919089/original.jpg)
Red-winged Blackbird harassing a Bald Eagle; the eagle has a fish in its talons. Right-clicking on the image should give you a larger view.
Nice action shot! I guess at least smaller birds have the advantage of greater mobility over larger birds in their favour? I've seen footage of such things but never in real life.
As Elgarian says, for non-worm residents, British blackbirds seems far friendlier creatures, though I know appearances can be deceiving. I remember seeing film of one robin pecking another to death in some violent dispute. That was also quite shocking, I mean, a robin of all birds! Sorry, I seem to be revisiting all my gory horror experiences of birds this afternoon, I'll cease and desist now ..
Quote from: owlice on August 07, 2025, 10:50:10 AMMany find female RWBs difficult to ID; they look like so many other brownish birds! For me, the ability to ID them, after so many difficulties, snapped into place one day, and suddenly, pretty much no other bird looked like these.
If only that worked for all the LBJ sparrows... !
Here's an award-winning photo (NOT MY IMAGE!) of a Red-winged Blackbird, and hold onto your socks: https://www.audubon.org/magazine/2019-audubon-photography-awards-winners
(https://media.audubon.org/web_gp_aud_kathrin-swoboda_red-winged-blackbird_amateur.jpg?width=1400&auto=webp&quality=90&fit=bounds&disable=upscale)
Ah, incredible!
Quote from: owlice on August 07, 2025, 10:50:10 AMMany find female RWBs difficult to ID; they look like so many other brownish birds! For me, the ability to ID them, after so many difficulties, snapped into place one day, and suddenly, pretty much no other bird looked like these.
If only that worked for all the LBJ sparrows... !
Here's an award-winning photo (NOT MY IMAGE!) of a Red-winged Blackbird, and hold onto your socks: https://www.audubon.org/magazine/2019-audubon-photography-awards-winners
(https://media.audubon.org/web_gp_aud_kathrin-swoboda_red-winged-blackbird_amateur.jpg?width=1400&auto=webp&quality=90&fit=bounds&disable=upscale)
I had never heard of these 'smoke rings'. Astounding photo and a worthy winner! Can anyone explain the yellowish colour of the 'smoke'? If it's condensation, one would expect it to be white - is it a sunlit effect perhaps? (There is a yellowish tinge to the light elsewhere.)
Quote from: Iota on August 07, 2025, 11:08:10 AMSorry, I seem to be revisiting all my gory horror experiences of birds this afternoon, I'll cease and desist now ..
I've been hiding under the bed.
Quote from: Iota on August 07, 2025, 11:08:10 AMYes, that's exactly how it appears, and has done since this started happening a few days ago. I've tried it each time I visited the forum and it was always that one emoji that caused the Forbidden alert, but rather spookily I just tried it again and lo and behold ... :laugh: - it's back! It's as if all it takes is quick question from owlice, and all your problems will be solved. That's quite a gift you have there, I may be back to consult you on various other issues .. ;)
Nice action shot! I guess at least smaller birds have the advantage of greater mobility over larger birds in their favour? I've seen footage of such things but never in real life.
As Elgarian says, for non-worm residents, British blackbirds seems far friendlier creatures, though I know appearances can be deceiving. I remember seeing film of one robin pecking another to death in some violent dispute. That was also quite shocking, I mean, a robin of all birds! Sorry, I seem to be revisiting all my gory horror experiences of birds this afternoon, I'll cease and desist now ..
I suspect that if you were close to a British blackbird's nest (vs. out food hunting) that you would receive a different reception.
K
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 07, 2025, 12:20:57 PMI had never heard of these 'smoke rings'. Astounding photo and a worthy winner! Can anyone explain the yellowish colour of the 'smoke'? If it's condensation, one would expect it to be white - is it a sunlit effect perhaps? (There is a yellowish tinge to the light elsewhere.)
Yes, the yellowish color is from sunlight. This was taken shortly after sunrise, so the sun is very low in the sky.
Huntley Meadows is a great birding spot, and some areas of the park are fabulous for feeding mosquitoes (if one is into that sort of thing).
Quote from: owlice on August 07, 2025, 06:31:26 PMYes, the yellowish color is from sunlight. This was taken shortly after sunrise, so the sun is very low in the sky.
Huntley Meadows is a great birding spot, and some areas of the park are fabulous for feeding mosquitoes (if one is into that sort of thing).
Better for them to be eaten vs. being eaten by them.
K
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 07, 2025, 12:26:26 PMI've been hiding under the bed.
Very wise. Foolishly I had neglected to have a bed near enough on both occasions and was unable to take evasive action. :P
Quote from: Kalevala on August 07, 2025, 02:55:18 PMI suspect that if you were close to a British blackbird's nest (vs. out food hunting) that you would receive a different reception.
K
That may well be, I have none of the extensive knowledge of owlice and Elgarian. Though my neighbour did once have a blackbird nesting in her fairly small back patio and I can't remember her ever saying she had been warned off by the bird. But once she saw the nest with the eggs in, she stopped going into the patio until they'd hatched and flown off, to avoid scaring the blackbird, so perhaps she avoided any aggressive behaviour that way.
I checked into the two red-tailed hawk chicks at Cornell (who had been doing well) and found out that some observant BOGs (Birders on the Ground) had noticed some abnormal behavior from O1. After consulting with one of the wildlife vets there, they decided to (if they could safely) capture the hawk and bring it in. It turns out that it was/is very sick. This was on the sixth. Fingers crossed for the young hawk.
K
Quote from: Iota on August 07, 2025, 11:08:10 AMI seem to be revisiting all my gory horror experiences of birds this afternoon, I'll cease and desist now ..
A second response to this comment. A couple of years ago I looked out of the kitchen window and saw a sparrowhawk at the end of the garden. Camera - click, click click. And then I saw why she was there, and realised the pigeon population had just decreased by one. I don't know how to respond to this sort of thing. This is what sparrowhawks do; this is how they live; and when you see one in flight and marvel, it's worth remembering that it's 'the moment, not the bird, divine'.
May I tell a story? Back in 2000 I was involved in an international academic conference, and an American fellow scholar and friend, Jim, was staying with us. I was presenting my paper on the first day, and I woke early - partly through nervousness, partly through excitement, and partly because the sun was shining brilliantly through the curtains. It was only about 5am, but I got up and went down to walk by the river in the morning sunshine. Utterly fabulous.
Later we had breakfast in the garden, and I told Jim about my walk by the river. 'It seemed like Paradise,' I said. 'Perhaps it really is,' he said, 'if only we could see it clearly.'
It was so tempting, there among the cereal packets, wanting so much to see the world at its best, all shining and full of promise on that special day, that I nearly agreed. 'No', I said. 'You only have to look under the nearest stone to see that it isn't Paradise.'
I've never sorted out this seeming paradox: the natural world is so full of rewards, spiritual nourishment, and sensual delight, that it's easy to blind oneself to the dark side.
@Kalevala is right about the blackbird: he's not as harmless as he might seem. Neither are we, alas.
Quote from: Iota on August 08, 2025, 03:33:24 AMI have none of the extensive knowledge of owlice and Elgarian.
I can't let you carry on believing that! You almost certainly have as much knowledge as I have, or more. I'm very much a casual Sunday birder, and the knowledge I once had, 50 years ago, is all but rusted up. Owlice is the expert here!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 08, 2025, 05:44:03 AMI can't let you carry on believing that! You almost certainly have as much knowledge as I have, or more. I'm very much a Sunday birder, and the knowledge I once had, 50 years ago, is all but rusted up. Owlice is the expert here!
hahahahaha, I am definitely not an expert! I've seen a lot of birds and photographed some of them, true, but expert I am not. I am indebted to expert guides, naturalist friends, and technologies such as Merlin and iNaturalist for finding and IDing much of the wildlife I've been able to see, from mating ostriches (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tiYevLfg_pQ) to tiny birds in tiny nests.
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/295323609/original.jpeg)
American Redstart, Michigan
Quote from: Kalevala on August 07, 2025, 06:33:54 PMBetter for them to be eaten vs. being eaten by them.
K
Oh, that one could choose the mosquitoes' fate!
Quote from: owlice on August 08, 2025, 06:11:34 AMhahahahaha, I am definitely not an expert! I've seen a lot of birds and photographed some of them, true, but expert I am not.
So you mean ... we're
all duffers, bumbling about, hardly knowing what we're doing?
Well, strike me on a matchbox and knock me into fits (as my grandfather used to say).
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 08, 2025, 05:44:03 AMI can't let you carry on believing that! You almost certainly have as much knowledge as I have, or more. I'm very much a casual Sunday birder, and the knowledge I once had, 50 years ago, is all but rusted up. Owlice is the expert here!
I have to dissuade both you and owlice of any trace of a notion that I might share the extensive knowledge you have. I have seen on here that I clearly do not.
Despite loving having birds around, seeing them, hearing them etc, I am in no way a birder. I've never owned a book about birds, I can only identify the birds that everyone can, and maybe not even some of them, I rarely talk about birds with friends and family, unless one hops/flies into our lives as we are talking, I could go on ..
But I have loved witnessing what I have on this thread, it's a thoroughly enriching experience, and am very glad/grateful that you've both shared your encounters with the world of birds so vividly here.
Quote from: Iota on August 08, 2025, 08:00:31 AMI have to dissuade both you and owlice of any trace of a notion that I might share the extensive knowledge you have. I have seen on here that I clearly do not.
Despite loving having birds around, seeing them, hearing them etc, I am in no way a birder. I've never owned a book about birds, I can only identify the birds that everyone can, and maybe not even some of them, I rarely talk about birds with friends and family, unless one hops/flies into our lives as we are talking, I could go on ..
But I have loved witnessing what I have on this thread, it's a thoroughly enriching experience, and am very glad/grateful that you've both shared your encounters with the world of birds so vividly here.
So now we have established that indeed we are
all duffers. That's sorted then. But I believe we have also established that a bunch of duffers can sustain many fascinating discussions about birds! I admit I am loving these conversations. Thank you to everybody.
I, too, am enjoying these conversations!
No matter what one's experience is, there is always (always always) more to learn.
I feel a bird is in order... let me go find one....
Quote from: owlice on August 08, 2025, 11:52:37 AMI feel a bird is in order... let me go find one....
Wondering what it will be ...
Ah, here we go... Common Mergansers (in North America) or Goosander (in Eurasia), taken two years ago on this date (hence the reason for its selection) in Michigan...
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/308680983/original.jpeg)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/308681018/original.jpeg)
Little peep!!!
Pic from earlier this year (also in Michigan) to show the male's striking breeding plumage:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/514399903/original.jpg)
And a photo from Sweden, only because I like that the reflections in the water echo the color palette of the bird:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/261401263/original.jpeg)
Quote from: owlice on August 08, 2025, 12:16:24 PMAh, here we go... Common Mergansers (in North America) or Goosander (in Eurasia), taken two years ago on this date (hence the reason for its selection) in Michigan...
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/308680983/original.jpeg)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/308681018/original.jpeg)
Little peep!!!
Pic from earlier this year (also in Michigan) to show the male's striking breeding plumage:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/514399903/original.jpg)
And a photo from Sweden, only because I like that the reflections in the water echo the color palette of the bird:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/261401263/original.jpeg)
Wow! I actually know this bird! We've occasionally seen goosanders on the river nearby, and also at Leighton Moss (the RSPB reserve) near the Cumbrian border. That last (Swedish) photo is exquisite. Thank you.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 08, 2025, 12:26:30 PMWow! I actually know this bird! We've occasionally seen goosanders on the river nearby, and also at Leighton Moss (the RSPB reserve). That last (Swedish) photo is exquisite. Thank you.
The date wasn't the only reason this bird was selected... :)
I'm delighted you know it!
I wish the photo from Sweden were sharper, but I do love the colors.
Quote from: owlice on August 08, 2025, 12:28:06 PMThe date wasn't the only reason this bird was selected... :)
Am I missing something here? Is there a puzzle to solve?
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 08, 2025, 12:31:29 PMAm I missing something here? Is there a puzzle to solve?
No! It was that the bird occurs both in the US and in Eurasia! I was hoping you and others of the UK persuasion might know it, too.
Since countries that start with S and rufous coloring have been mentioned, is it okay if I share this Eurasian Red Squirrel in Switzerland, just for general cuteness, even though it's not a bird?
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/431567363/original.jpeg)
Quote from: owlice on August 08, 2025, 12:16:24 PMAh, here we go... Common Mergansers (in North America) or Goosander (in Eurasia), taken two years ago on this date (hence the reason for its selection) in Michigan...
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/308680983/original.jpeg)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/308681018/original.jpeg)
Little peep!!!
Pic from earlier this year (also in Michigan) to show the male's striking breeding plumage:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/514399903/original.jpg)
And a photo from Sweden, only because I like that the reflections in the water echo the color palette of the bird:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/261401263/original.jpeg)
Love the one from Sweden in particular! Were you there long?
K
NO! I take that back!!
Here's a bird-related entry in the squirrel division:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/178072672/original.jpeg)
Squirrels gotta squirrel! Eastern Fox Squirrel
Quote from: owlice on August 08, 2025, 12:39:50 PMNo! It was that the bird occurs both in the US and in Eurasia! I was hoping you and others of the UK persuasion might know it, too.
That's a relief. I was under pressure there for a moment ...
QuoteSince countries that start with S and rufous coloring have been mentioned, is it okay if I share this Eurasian Red Squirrel in Switzerland, just for general cuteness, even though it's not a bird?
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/431567363/original.jpeg)
Speaking purely for myself, please post any photographs you like if they're even half as cuddlesome as this.
He looks as if he's about to address an assembly of fellow squirrels on the Nut and Acorn Crisis.
Quote from: Kalevala on August 08, 2025, 12:42:49 PMLove the one from Sweden in particular! Were you there long?
K
No; I was there only for a week, for a conference/meeting. I arrived a day early, however (as I often do when I travel), so spent Sunday birding with a wonderful, kind, and very knowledgeable chap I'd found on Birding Pal (https://birdingpal.org/). He picked me up before dawn and dropped me back at the hotel after sunset; the weather (rainy/grey) could have been better, but the company was aces, as was the birding! I had a half-day after the conclusion of the event to bird, too, and went with one of my fellow conference-goers, as we have done several times when we're attending the same events/in the same vicinity.
Quote from: owlice on August 08, 2025, 12:43:27 PMNO! I take that back!!
Here's a bird-related entry in the squirrel division:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/178072672/original.jpeg)
Squirrels gotta squirrel! Eastern Fox Squirrel
"Deer Mum. Doo not wurrie. I ave runn off to join the sercus to be an akrobatt.
Love,
Nutkin Junior"
Quote from: owlice on August 08, 2025, 12:54:49 PMNo; I was there only for a week, for a conference/meeting. I arrived a day early, however (as I often do when I travel), so spent Sunday birding with a wonderful, kind, and very knowledgeable chap I'd found on Birding Pal (https://birdingpal.org/). He picked me up before dawn and dropped me back at the hotel after sunset; the weather (rainy/grey) could have been better, but the company was aces, as was the birding! I had a half-day after the conclusion of the event to bird, too, and went with one of my fellow conference-goers, as we have done several times when we're attending the same events/in the same vicinity.
Wow! How kind of the "stranger"! Glad that all worked out well! May I ask, do you work in the natural sciences area?
K
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 08, 2025, 12:50:04 PMHe looks as if he's about to address an assembly of fellow squirrels on the Nut and Acorn Crisis.
hahahahaahahaha!!! (Someone must speak out on this important topic!!)
Squirrels are often part of birding. I was in Switzerland for a gathering and learned that one of my fellow gatherers is into birding, so of
course we went walking through the woods to see what we could see, and that Eurasian Red Squirrel was one of the things we saw. Also saw this sweet little birb:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/431567148/original.jpeg)
European Pied Flycatcher
I love them!
Quote from: Kalevala on August 08, 2025, 01:20:24 PMWow! How kind of the "stranger"! Glad that all worked out well! May I ask, do you work in the natural sciences area?
K
Going out for the full day was his idea; I was thrilled to bits, and it was clear he was really enjoying himself. He had been a guide in a couple of other countries so this is what he really loved to do.
I am happily (ecstatically!) retired from a career in information technology. (I liked what I did, but retirement is the
best fun!) I've always liked animals, though; my family had various wee beasties and such when I was growing up.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 08, 2025, 01:17:18 PM"Deer Mum. Doo not wurrie. I ave runn off to join the sercus to be an akrobatt.
Love,
Nutkin Junior"
He's a natural! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hFZFjoX2cGg
Quote from: owlice on August 08, 2025, 03:34:03 PMHe's a natural! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hFZFjoX2cGg
I've watched that one before...very clever! ;D
Years ago, I ran across ads for something called the Yankee Twirler. You can guess how it works.
K
Quote from: owlice on August 08, 2025, 12:16:24 PMAnd a photo from Sweden, only because I like that the reflections in the water echo the color palette of the bird:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/261401263/original.jpeg)
Yes, a beauty!
Quote from: owlice on August 08, 2025, 12:39:50 PMSince countries that start with S and rufous coloring have been mentioned, is it okay if I share this Eurasian Red Squirrel in Switzerland, just for general cuteness, even though it's not a bird?
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/431567363/original.jpeg)
This is a great example of why I find your photos so distinctive. Squirrels are very photogenic - cute, playful, crafty etc - so they get photographed an awful lot. Yet I've never seen a photo as characterful as the one above, you seem to give it an inner life and a whole life story all with one click of the shutter. I know that's a very anthropomorphic interpretation, but nonetheless you certainly do seem to have the knack for finding the perfect moment. Great one of the gymnastic bird feeder thief too!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 08, 2025, 12:50:04 PMHe looks as if he's about to address an assembly of fellow squirrels on the Nut and Acorn Crisis.
Excellent! :laugh:
( .. because I know you'll all be fascinated to know .. ::) .. when I put the laugh emoji before the 'Excellent!', I got the Forbidden alert, when I put it after, all was well. What a highly capricious and picky set of rules we seem to have play by!
And while I'm here, as I'm unable to post any photos, I thought I might post one of my favourite poems, which seems vaguely on topic.
The Darkling Thrush
I leant upon a coppice gate
When Frost was spectre-grey,
And Winter's dregs made desolate
The weakening eye of day.
The tangled bine-stems scored the sky
Like strings of broken lyres,
And all mankind that haunted nigh
Had sought their household fires.
The land's sharp features seemed to be
The Century's corpse outleant,
His crypt the cloudy canopy,
The wind his death-lament.
The ancient pulse of germ and birth
Was shrunken hard and dry,
And every spirit upon earth
Seemed fervourless as I.
At once a voice arose among
The bleak twigs overhead
In a full-hearted evensong
Of joy illimited;
An aged thrush, frail, gaunt, and small,
In blast-beruffled plume,
Had chosen thus to fling his soul
Upon the growing gloom.
So little cause for carolings
Of such ecstatic sound
Was written on terrestrial things
Afar or nigh around,
That I could think there trembled through
His happy good-night air
Some blessed Hope, whereof he knew
And I was unaware.
Thomas Hardy
Quote from: owlice on August 08, 2025, 02:58:49 PMhahahahaahahaha!!! (Someone must speak out on this important topic!!)
You can tell from his nervousness that he's staking his reputation on this.
Quote(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/431567148/original.jpeg)
European Pied Flycatcher
I love them!
I'm sure I would too, if I ever saw one. Only ever saw spotted flycatchers - we even sometimes had one in the garden (great fun to watch) - but that was many years ago. Now, they seem to have disappeared up here, along with the willow warbler.
Fabulous photo, Owlice.
Quote from: Iota on August 09, 2025, 01:11:17 AMThis is a great example of why I find your photos so distinctive. Squirrels are very photogenic - cute, playful, crafty etc - so they get photographed an awful lot. Yet I've never seen a photo as characterful as the one above, you seem to give it an inner life and a whole life story all with one click of the shutter. I know that's a very anthropomorphic interpretation, but nonetheless you certainly do seem to have the knack for finding the perfect moment.
Hear Hear! Also QFT.
['It's ART, I tell you!' he cried, as they dragged him away.]
Tried to see the little egret on the way back from my daughter's house this morning. It was there sure enough, but oh so far away, and very windy. Here're the best of a bad lot.
From top to bottom: Little egret, redshank, redshank, turnstone. (I think - I'm not great on identifying waders. Please correct me if I'm wrong.) There's a curlew in the other pic, but don't look too closely or it will dissolve into blur.
Yesterday's walk produced no birds - far too windy, but I can never really separate the birds from the landscape, any more than I can separate Elgar's music from it. So here's a bit of context, you might say:
Quote from: Iota on August 09, 2025, 01:35:54 AMAnd while I'm here, as I'm unable to post any photos, I thought I might post one of my favourite poems, which seems vaguely on topic.
The Darkling Thrush
I leant upon a coppice gate
When Frost was spectre-grey,
And Winter's dregs made desolate
The weakening eye of day.
The tangled bine-stems scored the sky
Like strings of broken lyres,
And all mankind that haunted nigh
Had sought their household fires.
The land's sharp features seemed to be
The Century's corpse outleant,
His crypt the cloudy canopy,
The wind his death-lament.
The ancient pulse of germ and birth
Was shrunken hard and dry,
And every spirit upon earth
Seemed fervourless as I.
At once a voice arose among
The bleak twigs overhead
In a full-hearted evensong
Of joy illimited;
An aged thrush, frail, gaunt, and small,
In blast-beruffled plume,
Had chosen thus to fling his soul
Upon the growing gloom.
So little cause for carolings
Of such ecstatic sound
Was written on terrestrial things
Afar or nigh around,
That I could think there trembled through
His happy good-night air
Some blessed Hope, whereof he knew
And I was unaware.
Thomas Hardy
The Poetry and birds connection is good in my book! And mostly there seems to be more of hope in them, than otherwise:
And for that minute a blackbird sang
Close by, and round him, mistier,
Farther and farther, all the birds
Of Oxfordshire and Gloucestershire.
Quote from: Iota on August 09, 2025, 01:11:17 AMYes, a beauty!
This is a great example of why I find your photos so distinctive. Squirrels are very photogenic - cute, playful, crafty etc - so they get photographed an awful lot. Yet I've never seen a photo as characterful as the one above, you seem to give it an inner life and a whole life story all with one click of the shutter. I know that's a very anthropomorphic interpretation, but nonetheless you certainly do seem to have the knack for finding the perfect moment. Great one of the gymnastic bird feeder thief too!
You're very kind. Really, the squirrels do it themselves; they have several superpowers, and one of them is looking adorable! Case in point:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/355605851/original.jpeg)
Variegated Squirrel
It might be turtles all the way down, but it might also be bananas all the way upQuote from: Iota on August 09, 2025, 01:11:17 AMExcellent! :laugh:
( .. because I know you'll all be fascinated to know .. ::) .. when I put the laugh emoji before the 'Excellent!', I got the Forbidden alert, when I put it after, all was well. What a highly capricious and picky set of rules we seem to have play by!
Wow, that's weird. Thanks for sharing the rule!
Quote from: Iota on August 09, 2025, 01:35:54 AMAnd while I'm here, as I'm unable to post any photos, I thought I might post one of my favourite poems, which seems vaguely on topic.
The Darkling Thrush
I leant upon a coppice gate
When Frost was spectre-grey,
And Winter's dregs made desolate
The weakening eye of day.
The tangled bine-stems scored the sky
Like strings of broken lyres,
And all mankind that haunted nigh
Had sought their household fires.
The land's sharp features seemed to be
The Century's corpse outleant,
His crypt the cloudy canopy,
The wind his death-lament.
The ancient pulse of germ and birth
Was shrunken hard and dry,
And every spirit upon earth
Seemed fervourless as I.
At once a voice arose among
The bleak twigs overhead
In a full-hearted evensong
Of joy illimited;
An aged thrush, frail, gaunt, and small,
In blast-beruffled plume,
Had chosen thus to fling his soul
Upon the growing gloom.
So little cause for carolings
Of such ecstatic sound
Was written on terrestrial things
Afar or nigh around,
That I could think there trembled through
His happy good-night air
Some blessed Hope, whereof he knew
And I was unaware.
Thomas Hardy
One of my favorite authors.
Thank you for sharing this lovely poem.
Quote from: owlice on August 09, 2025, 06:39:04 AM(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/355605851/original.jpeg)
Variegated Squirrel
It might be turtles all the way down, but it might also be bananas all the way up
. :laugh:
Elgarian Redux, thank you for your kind words.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 09, 2025, 05:45:11 AMYou can tell from his nervousness that he's staking his reputation on this.
hahahaha!! Making me laugh here!! :laugh:
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 09, 2025, 05:45:11 AMOnly ever saw spotted flycatchers - we even sometimes had one in the garden (great fun to watch) - but that was many years ago. Now, they seem to have disappeared up here, along with the willow warbler.
Oh, I love Spotted Flycatchers, too! They can be ... not quite bold, but not as skittish as some birds. They will fly a bit away when approached, but then will often fly right back to where they were once the person who approached has stopped moving. (That could be expressed more clearly, I'm sure, but I hope you get what I mean.)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/34782193/original.jpeg)
Spotted Flycatcher
I have seen a Willow Warbler only once, and have only this one photo of it:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/246645997/original.jpeg)
Willow Warbler
In looking at other photos (not mine, of course, since I have only one) of this lovely little bird, its softness reminds me of a Warbling Vireo:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/502577611/original.jpeg)
Warbling Vireo
The first time I saw a Warbling Vireo, a guide described it as "soft," and indeed, that is how they look! It is the perfect description.
And now I wish to see Willow Warblers; once is not enough!!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 09, 2025, 05:48:50 AM['It's ART, I tell you!' he cried, as they dragged him away.]
hahahahahahahaha!!!
But there'd better be no one with the audacity to drag you away; that would surely unleash the birds of war!!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 09, 2025, 06:01:56 AMTried to see the little egret on the way back from my daughter's house this morning. It was there sure enough, but oh so far away, and very windy. Here're the best of a bad lot.
From top to bottom: Little egret, redshank, redshank, turnstone. (I think - I'm not great on identifying waders. Please correct me if I'm wrong.) There's a curlew in the other pic, but don't look too closely or it will dissolve into blur.
Fabulous!!! Your Panasonic does you proud!
Quote(I think - I'm not great on identifying waders. Please correct me if I'm wrong.)
To me, waders are almost always USBs: Unidentifiable Shore Birds. The only thing more confusing to me than shore birds is all the other UBs out there...
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 09, 2025, 06:10:19 AMYesterday's walk produced no birds - far too windy, but I can never really separate the birds from the landscape, any more than I can separate Elgar's music from it. So here's a bit of context, you might say:
So beautiful! How wonderful to have such beauty so near!!
QuoteThe Poetry and birds connection is good in my book! And mostly there seems to be more of hope in them, than otherwise:
And for that minute a blackbird sang
Close by, and round him, mistier,
Farther and farther, all the birds
Of Oxfordshire and Gloucestershire.
The birds care not for the petty lives of humans; they sing on.
Quote from: owlice on August 09, 2025, 07:38:34 AMOh, I love Spotted Flycatchers, too! They can be ... not quite bold, but not as skittish as some birds. They will fly a bit away when approached, but then will often fly right back to where they were once the person who approached has stopped moving. (That could be expressed more clearly, I'm sure, but I hope you get what I mean.)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/34782193/original.jpeg)
Spotted Flycatcher
These photos ... wow. That flycatcher is fabulous.
QuoteI have seen a Willow Warbler only once, and have only this one photo of it:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/246645997/original.jpeg)
Willow Warbler
We want them back! Time was, you could walk among the trees around here, and the air would be filled with that plaintive descending trill that they make. Now - never.
QuoteIn looking at other photos (not mine, of course, since I have only one) of this lovely little bird, its softness reminds me of a Warbling Vireo:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/502577611/original.jpeg)
Warbling Vireo
The first time I saw a Warbling Vireo, a guide described it as "soft," and indeed, that is how they look! It is the perfect description.
As you look, you can 'feel' the softness of the downy feathers.
QuoteAnd now I wish to see Willow Warblers; once is not enough!!
I can assure you that hundreds of times is not enough ...
Quote from: owlice on August 09, 2025, 07:56:12 AMSo beautiful! How wonderful to have such beauty so near!!
I'd say that this is the first time in my life - these last few years - that I can feel that I
belong in the landscape, even though we've lived here for decades. I'd love to say I felt as if I belonged in the Malvern Hills, which I love beyond anything, but no - it was
Elgar who belonged there, and I just responded to his music. I'd like to say I belonged in some of the prehistoric places like Avebury, but though I'm profoundly moved by them, I'm only a visitor. No,
this is the place, and these are my fellow creatures. This land, here, in these photos, just a few miles from where we live, this has inexplicably become really special.
Quote from: owlice on August 09, 2025, 06:39:04 AMYou're very kind. Really, the squirrels do it themselves; they have several superpowers, and one of them is looking adorable! Case in point:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/355605851/original.jpeg)
Variegated Squirrel
It might be turtles all the way down, but it might also be bananas all the way up
The Stairway to Squirrel Heaven.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 09, 2025, 06:23:12 AMThe Poetry and birds connection is good in my book! And mostly there seems to be more of hope in them, than otherwise:
And for that minute a blackbird sang
Close by, and round him, mistier,
Farther and farther, all the birds
Of Oxfordshire and Gloucestershire.
Quote from: owlice on August 09, 2025, 07:56:12 AMThe birds care not for the petty lives of humans; they sing on.
Indeed, but what serenity they leave in their wake.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 09, 2025, 10:21:18 AMWe want them back! Time was, you could walk among the trees around here, and the air would be filled with that plaintive descending trill that they [Willow Warblers] make. Now - never.
You make me miss what I have never known.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 09, 2025, 10:45:34 AMThe Stairway to Squirrel Heaven.
.:laugh:
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 09, 2025, 10:38:54 AMI'd say that this is the first time in my life - these last few years - that I can feel that I belong in the landscape, even though we've lived here for decades. I'd love to say I felt as if I belonged in the Malvern Hills, which I love beyond anything, but no - it was Elgar who belonged there, and I just responded to his music. I'd like to say I belonged in some of the prehistoric places like Avebury, but though I'm profoundly moved by them, I'm only a visitor. No, this is the place, and these are my fellow creatures. This land, here, in these photos, just a few miles from where we live, this has inexplicably become really special.
That's lovely, Elgarian! :)
Oh, no! O1 died on August 7th. A necropsy will be performed to see what it died from.
https://www.allaboutbirds.org/cams/red-tailed-hawk-fledgling-o1-admitted-to-wildlife-hospital-after-apparent-illness/
K
Glorious breezy day - perfect for a walk but not photography perhaps. However, straightaway, swaying in the wind in the heart of a bunch of knapweed was a peacock butterfly. Now I know these are common - so the books tell me. But the fact is that I hardly ever see them. Maybe once or twice a year? So, camera out, and here he is below, in all his extravagance.
There was a female reed bunting on a bush nearby and I took a couple of shots ... and then some insect got itself trapped inside my glasses and started stinging me just at the side of my eye! Frantically trying to get it away, I inadvertently flicked my specs onto the ground (now scratched beyond reasonable use, unfortunately). So this ill-exposed buntosaurus photo below cost me actual pain and the price of a new pair of glasses.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 10, 2025, 04:58:01 AMGlorious breezy day - perfect for a walk but not photography perhaps. However, straightaway, swaying in the wind in the heart of a bunch of knapweed was a peacock butterfly. Now I know these are common - so the books tell me. But the fact is that I hardly ever see them. Maybe once or twice a year? So, camera out, and here he is below, in all his extravagance.
There was a female reed bunting on a bush nearby and I took a couple of shots ... and then some insect got itself trapped inside my glasses and started stinging me just at the side of my eye! Frantically trying to get it away, I inadvertently flicked my specs onto the ground (now scratched beyond reasonable use, unfortunately). So this ill-exposed buntosaurus photo below cost me actual pain and the price of a new pair of glasses.
Sorry to hear that! You might want to keep them as a backup pair.
By the way, you and Owlice sometimes lose me as far as your bird names goes...have no idea what you were referring to...maybe a bunting? Perhaps stick to their scientific and/or common names? I'd appreciate it. :)
K
K
Quote from: Kalevala on August 10, 2025, 07:30:08 AMSorry to hear that! You might want to keep them as a backup pair.
Indeed. I now have two backup pairs ...
QuoteBy the way, you and Owlice sometimes lose me as far as your bird names goes...have no idea what you were referring to...maybe a bunting? Perhaps stick to their scientific and/or common names? I'd appreciate it. :)
It's a bit of silliness based on the notion that birds are descended from dinosaurs, and is just part of the fun. If you look at my post again, though, you'll see I did refer to it on this occasion clearly as a female reed bunting in the text, and also in the title of the photo. I'll try to make a habit of that ...
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 10, 2025, 07:40:40 AMIndeed. I now have two backup pairs ...
It's a bit of silliness based on the notion that birds are descended from dinosaurs, and is just part of the fun. If you look at my post again, though, you'll see I did refer to it clearly as a female reed bunting. I'll try to make that a habit!
K
K
Yes, I did know that the two of you were being silly--and what it was based on. Sorry that I missed your further comment.
K
I'm happy to provide an ID on any bird (or other creature) I have posted; I generally try to list the common name when I create a post, but if I forget, I'm happy to add it if notified it is missing, so long as I know the ID. (I usually do, but cannot guarantee it; there are a lot of confusing birds/insects/other critters out there!)
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 10, 2025, 04:58:01 AMSo this ill-exposed buntosaurus photo below cost me actual pain and the price of a new pair of glasses.
Oooo, I'm sorry that happened. I hope the stings are no longer painful. I'm sure Ms. Buntosaurus would apologize if she knew of the unfortunate outcome of your photo shoot, and I suspect this steely-eyed Huntasaurus would like to hear of your difficulties so he can track down the culprit and eat it. In fact, he looks quite determined to do so; 'twould be a tasty snack for him and would also serve the insect right!
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/420235274/large.jpeg)
Cape Batis
The butterfly is beautiful! I have seen them only a few times; how lucky you are to have them close to you! Except for the stinging insect incident, your walk sounds lovely.
I hope to get outside today, too, and will, like you, make sure to take my camera. :)
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 10, 2025, 04:58:01 AMGlorious breezy day - perfect for a walk but not photography perhaps. However, straightaway, swaying in the wind in the heart of a bunch of knapweed was a peacock butterfly. Now I know these are common - so the books tell me. But the fact is that I hardly ever see them. Maybe once or twice a year? So, camera out, and here he is below, in all his extravagance.
There was a female reed bunting on a bush nearby and I took a couple of shots ... and then some insect got itself trapped inside my glasses and started stinging me just at the side of my eye! Frantically trying to get it away, I inadvertently flicked my specs onto the ground (now scratched beyond reasonable use, unfortunately). So this ill-exposed buntosaurus photo below cost me actual pain and the price of a new pair of glasses.
Oh tough luck, how exasperating! You have my sympathy, such things are so easy to do, and sadly seem to increase with age. Though long ago, when we were in our twenties, I had a friend who had a horror of wasps, and one once flew up and started pestering him as he sat on a park bench eating his lunch and wouldn't leave him alone. Flailing around in his panic to swipe it away, he ended up landing a huge punch on his own face and nearly knocked himself out! So the young aren't immune either ..
Lovely butterfly shot!
Quote from: owlice on August 10, 2025, 08:52:58 AMOooo, I'm sorry that happened. I hope the stings are no longer painful. I'm sure Ms. Buntosaurus would apologize if she knew of the unfortunate outcome of your photo shoot, and I suspect this steely-eyed Huntasaurus would like to hear of your difficulties so he can track down the culprit and eat it. In fact, he looks quite determined to do so; 'twould be a tasty snack for him and would also serve the insect right!
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/420235274/large.jpeg)
Cape Batis
.:laugh:
Quote from: owlice on August 10, 2025, 08:52:58 AMI hope the stings are no longer painful.
Well the bloomin' creature got me three times - 3 little puncture wounds in my eyebrow!! I've lavished antihistamine cream on them every few hours, but they still sting (and as you see, I'm milking the incident for sympathy).
QuoteI'm sure Ms. Buntosaurus would apologize if she knew of the unfortunate outcome of your photo shoot
Warn't her fault of course. She was posing perfectly nicely and probably wondered why I hadn't responded to her 'come closer' look over the shoulder.
QuoteI suspect this steely-eyed Huntasaurus would like to hear of your difficulties so he can track down the culprit and eat it. In fact, he looks quite determined to do so; 'twould be a tasty snack for him and would also serve the insect right!
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/420235274/large.jpeg)
Cape Batis
Oh yes indeed! What a fierce little chap he is. I'm sure he would defend law and order very well. Batmanosaurus!
QuoteThe butterfly is beautiful! I have seen them only a few times; how lucky you are to have them close to you!
Of all the common butterflies here, they are the one I see least - and are the ones I most love to see.
QuoteI hope to get outside today, too, and will, like you, make sure to take my camera. :)
.... and the antihistamine cream!!
Quote from: Iota on August 10, 2025, 10:20:23 AMOh tough luck, how exasperating! You have my sympathy, such things are so easy to do, and sadly seem to increase with age. Though long ago, when we were in our twenties, I had a friend who had a horror of wasps, and one once flew up and started pestering him as he sat on a park bench eating his lunch and wouldn't leave him alone. Flailing around in his panic to swipe it away, he ended up landing a huge punch on his own face and nearly knocked himself out! So the young aren't immune either ..
Oh no! That really is just too bad! Terrible luck!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 10, 2025, 10:25:10 AMWell the bloomin' creature got me three times - 3 little puncture wounds in my eyebrow!! I've lavished antihistamine cream on them every few hours, but they still sting (and as you see, I'm milking the incident for sympathy).
Well it's working on me, seriously, that's a horrible thing to happen! Hope the worst of it passes soon.
Quote from: Iota on August 10, 2025, 10:35:38 AMWell it's working on me, seriously, that's a horrible thing to happen! Hope the worst of it passes soon.
Thing is, after I'd finished shouting Ow! Ow! Ow!, and picked up my ruined glasses, and explained to my wife why I was flailing around like a maimed octopus, I looked over to the bush, which I had been approaching for a closer shot - and Ms Buntosaurus had flown! (But who could be surprised?!)
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 10, 2025, 10:44:26 AMThing is, after I'd finished shouting Ow! Ow! Ow!, and picked up my ruined glasses, and explained to my wife why I was flailing around like a maimed octopus, I looked over to the bush, which I had been approaching for a closer shot - and Ms Buntosaurus had flown! (But who could be surprised?!)
Oh dear yes, that sounds in keeping with the general drift of Buntosaurus events. :( Hang on in there, your Buntosaurus moment may yet come!
Quote from: Iota on August 10, 2025, 10:20:23 AMLovely butterfly shot!
Have you seen the lovely little butterfly called a 'ringlet'? I'd never seen one till recently (no camera, of course!!). At first it looks like just a little brown job, but then you look again and it's so delicate, with these very tiny rings on its wings.
(https://butterfly-conservation.org/sites/default/files/styles/masthead/public/2018-05/15399803103_a2410ea210_o.jpg?itok=OTOqsu5J)
(NOT my photo!)
I've only seen one twice, and that recently.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 10, 2025, 10:59:28 AMHave you seen the lovely little butterfly called a 'ringlet'? I'd never seen one till recently (no camera, of course!!). At first it looks like just a little brown job, but then you look again and it's so delicate, with these very tiny rings on its wings.
(https://butterfly-conservation.org/butterflies/ringlet)
(NOT my photo!)
I've only seen them twice, and that recently.
No I haven't, but I just googled it and yes exquisite! I'd love to see one, lucky you!
What a very pretty butterfly!!! And what a beautiful photo of it!! Thanks for sharing it, and what a treat for your eyes, that you saw one!! Oh, sure, get me started on butterflies, why don't you? You know not what you do. I will try to rein myself in. Really, I will, I will!
I don't know whether I have seen that particular Ringlet (there are so many, so likely not!), but here is a Common Ringlet that I saw in Pennsylvania:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/149935038/original.jpeg)
My repeated silent suggestions that it open its wings were not taken until the butterfly fluttered by... er... off
Another that is in the same large family of Brush-footed Butterflies is the Appalachian Brown:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/550527261/original.jpg)
Virginia; a better photo (not mine) here, because of course this Brown didn't open its wings for me, either: https://www.inaturalist.org/photos/20788237 (https://www.inaturalist.org/photos/20788237)
Related is a Common Wood-Nymph, this one from Michigan:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/219760995/original.jpeg)
One thing I love about these butterflies (and so many others!) is that their eyes are similar to their wings; their outfits are very well color coordinated.
Quote from: owlice on August 10, 2025, 12:31:22 PMWhat a very pretty butterfly!!! And what a beautiful photo of it!! Thanks for sharing it, and what a treat for your eyes, that you saw one!! Oh, sure, get me started on butterflies, why don't you? You know not what you do. I will try to rein myself in. Really, I will, I will!
I don't think that reining ourselves in is what we do here. If it is, I've yet to see evidence. So burst into butterflies Owlice, by all means. Fire at will. Just to be clear, I'm only familiar with about 10 butterflies, so I won't be able to keep up using comments other than Wow.
QuoteI don't know whether I have seen that particular Ringlet (there are so many, so likely not!), but here is a Common Ringlet that I saw in Pennsylvania:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/149935038/original.jpeg)
My repeated silent suggestions that it open its wings were not taken until the butterfly fluttered by... er... off
This is not the same as the British Common Ringlet, which is the only ringlet I know! Oh the confusion!
QuoteRelated is a Common Wood-Nymph, this one from Michigan:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/219760995/original.jpeg)
So
this is what Sibelius was writing the music about. [
The Wood Nymph]
QuoteOne thing I love about these butterflies (and so many others!) is that their eyes are similar to their wings; their outfits are very well color coordinated.
Yes, their fashion sense is unimpeachable.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 10, 2025, 12:53:12 PMJust to be clear, I'm only familiar with about 10 butterflies.
But is it as many as 10, actually? I'll count 'em off: large white, small white, small tortoiseshell, red admiral, meadow brown, speckled wood, orange tip, common blue, painted lady (not often), peacock (not often), small copper (not often), ringlet (not often), comma (hardly ever), gatekeeper (hardly ever).
That's the lot. Hey, that's 14!! But maybe the hardly-evers only count as half.
The hardly-evers should count as 1.5, at least, since you remember them even though you hardly ever see them! So please grant yourself at least 15 butterflies, which I am certain is more than 99.9% of the population can claim (and I am sure to be within that 99.9%!)!
Quote from: Elgarian ReduxBatmanosaurus!
Yes!! And darn, I wish I had thought of that!! :laugh: Very clever of you, Elgarian!
Someday, I maybe will try to gather masked birds, just to see the variety among them. We already have Cedar Waxwing, Common Yellowthroat, Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird, and Cape Batis in evidence.
I was on a wildlife outing with others, touring the lodge's property, and the driver/guide several times pointed out the resident mongooses, the name of which I heard as "Bandit Mongooses." I thought the moniker might be due to their behavior, or maybe they, like some animals such as our raccoons, have black masks, though I saw no masks on the mongooses I was seeing. It wasn't until I uploaded the photos to iNaturalist that I realized these were
Banded Mongooses...
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/425193374/original.jpeg)
Oooooh... Banded... yeah, that makes much more sense...If this site offered a facepalm emoji, there'd be one right here.
Quote from: owlice on August 11, 2025, 04:39:02 AMThe hardly-evers should count as 1.5, at least, since you remember them even though you hardly ever see them! So please grant yourself at least 15 butterflies, which I am certain is more than 99.9% of the population can claim (and I am sure to be within that 99.9%!)!
This sounds like another example of the formula for the number of guitars you need (N+1, where N is the number you have already). So the formula for the number of butterfly species you've seen would be N+1, where N is the number you
think you've seen.
QuoteSomeday, I maybe will try to gather masked birds, just to see the variety among them. We already have Cedar Waxwing, Common Yellowthroat, Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird, and Cape Batis in evidence.
That would be really worth seeing. How many different ways can a bird species look like a highwayman? It could be called the Turpin project.
QuoteI was on a wildlife outing with others, touring the lodge's property, and the driver/guide several times pointed out the resident mongooses, the name of which I heard as "Bandit Mongooses." I thought the moniker might be due to their behavior, or maybe they, like some animals such as our raccoons, have black masks, though I saw no masks on the mongooses I was seeing. It wasn't until I uploaded the photos to iNaturalist that I realized these were Banded Mongooses...
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/425193374/original.jpeg)
Oooooh... Banded... yeah, that makes much more sense...
Fabulous story! The Bandit Mongoose
should exist!!
Q: How do you tell if a mongoose is a burglar?
A: See if it wears a stripey jumper and carries a bag labelled 'SWAG'.
I did go out walking yestereve, and I took my camera. It was hot and humid, and when I arrived at the boardwalks, it was also very quiet. I saw one bird, an Eastern Phoebe, on the other side of the highway; she was too far away, and I was not still enough, for a decent photo, but here she is nonetheless... clearly aware of my presence, even at a distance:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/550686971/original.jpg)
As I waited for the grad student I often walk with, I walked a bit down one boardwalk; there were still ripe/ripening thimbleberries, and a Red Maple showed promise of a change to come.
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/550687022/original.jpg)
My walking companion arrived, and after spraying well for protection against mosquitoes, we headed down the other boardwalk.
Quiet, quiet, quiet! No Red-winged Blackbirds called, and no parents to their children, either: the boardwalks were deserted. It was too humid, too hot, to be out, but ... birders be crazy, and though neither one of us would claim "birder" as a title, there we were... and then suddenly, little flurries of activity! Another Eastern Phoebe was hunting across the river:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/550690357/original.jpg)
A Yellow Warbler, one of several we saw, made an appearance:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/550690039/original.jpg)
And a Cedar Waxwing showed off its dark pink tongue:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/550690358/original.jpg)
I suspect it was actually trying to cool down
Our previous attempt to see hummingbirds -- there is only one expected in this area, the Ruby-throated -- was for naught, but our evening walk proved successful, and though the opportunity to photograph these fast-moving rascals was brief, we did have some success as a hummer fed on nearby pickerelweed:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/550691174/original.jpg)
We also saw a Spotted Sandpiper hunting amongst the lilypads, but he moved so quickly, I could not get a clear shot:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/550690781/original.jpg)
Slow down, you move too fast! You've got to make the photo op last!
We continued down the boardwalk, and hurrah!! A Purple Finch, a new-bird-capture for the grad student, who has been trying hard recently to build a lifelist. The bird tried hard to hide, but then briefly showed itself:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/550691173/original.jpg)
"Purple?!?! You call that purple?!" The female Purple Finch is shades of brown and white, and that is what this one is. The male looks as though it has been dipped in red wine, or as Roger Tory Peterson described, a "sparrow dipped in raspberry juice." They are very similar to House Finches, the males of which also have red on them, just ... not as much. Birds are confusing; people who assign bird names might be even more confused. Purple. ::)
We saw a few other birds as well: Red-winged Blackbirds (so quiet, though! It was too hot to even peep.), a Swamp Sparrow, female American Redstarts, male American Goldfinches, and a few others, and even my state bird, a Baltimore Oriole:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/550690906/original.jpg)
Though I've seen these in my home state, I have never gotten a photo of them there. In Michigan, Ohio, Central America, Washington DC, etc, suuuuure, but in Maryland? Never... because I so rarely see them there.
And we also saw... an American Mink! I was so excited, I
turned off my camera!
By accident, of course. So stupid!! I did manage to get it back on and get one shot. Though the camera was not on the setting I usually use for wildlife, I can at least prove I saw the mink.
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/550691384/original.jpg)
My walking companion did better, getting a burst of photos of the mink.
Notably, we saw no Bald Eagles. I am used to seeing them daily in this area, but this summer, I've had few sightings. They have apparently abandoned what I think of as the Eagle Tree, because I have seen them in previous summers perched on that tree, and they used to nest on the other side of the water from the university, but I haven't seen them there, either. The summer has been weird in several ways; the scarcity of eagle sightings is one of them. And so is the heat.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 11, 2025, 06:28:28 AMQ: How do you tell if a mongoose is a burglar?
A: See if it wears a stripey jumper and carries a bag labelled 'SWAG'.
hahahahahahaha!!! Making me laugh here!!
Quote from: owlice on August 11, 2025, 07:15:48 AMMy walking companion arrived, and after spraying well for protection against mosquitoes, we headed down the other boardwalk.
We continued down the boardwalk, and hurrah!! A Purple Finch, a new-bird-capture for the grad student, who has been trying hard recently to build a lifelist. The bird tried hard to hide, but then briefly showed itself:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/550691173/original.jpg)
"Purple?!?! You call that purple?!" The female Purple Finch is shades of brown and white, and that is what this one is. The male looks as though it has been dipped in red wine, or as Roger Tory Peterson described, a "sparrow dipped in raspberry juice." They are very similar to House Finches, the males of which also have red on them, just ... not as much. Birds are confusing; people who assign bird names might be even more confused. Purple. ::)
Wooooah. Stop right there. I have to dive in at this point - I
have to - because I know about purple finches. Or at least one particular example. This may be of no interest to you at all, but I have to tell you just in case.
There was an unfashionable American writer called Elswyth Thane,* who wrote what we might call Historical Romances, and biographies relating mostly to early American history (Washington et al). My wife introduced her to me, and I loved her style of writing (and her love of England) and read most of what she wrote - including THIS:
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1354492234i/5215918.jpg)
Pub. Duell, Sloan and Pearce, NY (1947)
*
She was married to the famous naturalist William Beebe.It's a true account of how she made friends with a purple finch, who decided to stay and live with her. I'm aware that the idea of this could be a real turn-off, but all I can say is that it isn't a sentimentalised account, and if you stumbled across a copy of this slim volume you might find it worth a look. Cheerily illustrated.
Quote from: owlice on August 11, 2025, 07:15:48 AMI did go out walking yestereve, and I took my camera. It was hot and humid, and when I arrived at the boardwalks, it was also very quiet. I saw one bird, an Eastern Phoebe, on the other side of the highway; she was too far away, and I was not still enough, for a decent photo, but here she is nonetheless... clearly aware of my presence, even at a distance:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/550686971/original.jpg)
As I waited for the grad student I often walk with, I walked a bit down one boardwalk; there were still ripe/ripening thimbleberries, and a Red Maple showed promise of a change to come.
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/550687022/original.jpg)
My walking companion arrived, and after spraying well for protection against mosquitoes, we headed down the other boardwalk.
Quiet, quiet, quiet! No Red-winged Blackbirds called, and no parents to their children, either: the boardwalks were deserted. It was too humid, too hot, to be out, but ... birders be crazy, and though neither one of us would claim "birder" as a title, there we were... and then suddenly, little flurries of activity! Another Eastern Phoebe was hunting across the river:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/550690357/original.jpg)
A Yellow Warbler, one of several we saw, made an appearance:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/550690039/original.jpg)
And a Cedar Waxwing showed off its dark pink tongue:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/550690358/original.jpg)
I suspect it was actually trying to cool down
Our previous attempt to see hummingbirds -- there is only one expected in this area, the Ruby-throated -- was for naught, but our evening walk proved successful, and though the opportunity to photograph these fast-moving rascals was brief, we did have some success as a hummer fed on nearby pickerelweed:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/550691174/original.jpg)
We also saw a Spotted Sandpiper hunting amongst the lilypads, but he moved so quickly, I could not get a clear shot:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/550690781/original.jpg)
Slow down, you move too fast! You've got to make the photo op last!
We continued down the boardwalk, and hurrah!! A Purple Finch, a new-bird-capture for the grad student, who has been trying hard recently to build a lifelist. The bird tried hard to hide, but then briefly showed itself:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/550691173/original.jpg)
"Purple?!?! You call that purple?!" The female Purple Finch is shades of brown and white, and that is what this one is. The male looks as though it has been dipped in red wine, or as Roger Tory Peterson described, a "sparrow dipped in raspberry juice." They are very similar to House Finches, the males of which also have red on them, just ... not as much. Birds are confusing; people who assign bird names might be even more confused. Purple. ::)
We saw a few other birds as well: Red-winged Blackbirds (so quiet, though! It was too hot to even peep.), a Swamp Sparrow, female American Redstarts, male American Goldfinches, and a few others, and even my state bird, a Baltimore Oriole:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/550690906/original.jpg)
Though I've seen these in my home state, I have never gotten a photo of them there. In Michigan, Ohio, Central America, Washington DC, etc, suuuuure, but in Maryland? Never... because I so rarely see them there.
And we also saw... an American Mink! I was so excited, I
turned off my camera!
By accident, of course. So stupid!! I did manage to get it back on and get one shot. Though the camera was not on the setting I usually use for wildlife, I can at least prove I saw the mink.
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/550691384/original.jpg)
My walking companion did better, getting a burst of photos of the mink.
Notably, we saw no Bald Eagles. I am used to seeing them daily in this area, but this summer, I've had few sightings. They have apparently abandoned what I think of as the Eagle Tree, because I have seen them in previous summers perched on that tree, and they used to nest on the other side of the water from the university, but I haven't seen them there, either. The summer has been weird in several ways; the scarcity of eagle sightings is one of them. And so is the heat.
More lovely shots, owlice, that Yellow Warbler is really picture postcard! And if I may say, there's a lovely flow to the narrative too.
Quote from: owlice on August 11, 2025, 07:15:48 AMI did go out walking yestereve, and I took my camera. It was hot and humid, and when I arrived at the boardwalks, it was also very quiet. I saw one bird, an Eastern Phoebe, on the other side of the highway; she was too far away, and I was not still enough, for a decent photo, but here she is nonetheless... clearly aware of my presence, even at a distance:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/550686971/original.jpg)
Just lovely. I have never even heard of most of these birds that you show us.
QuoteAs I waited for the grad student I often walk with, I walked a bit down one boardwalk; there were still ripe/ripening thimbleberries, and a Red Maple showed promise of a change to come.
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/550687022/original.jpg)
Just looked up thimbleberries and have discovered they look like raspberries. Crikey, the education you get here is second to none.
QuoteQuiet, quiet, quiet! No Red-winged Blackbirds called, and no parents to their children, either: the boardwalks were deserted. It was too humid, too hot, to be out, but ... birders be crazy, and though neither one of us would claim "birder" as a title, there we were... and then suddenly, little flurries of activity! Another Eastern Phoebe was hunting across the river:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/550690357/original.jpg)
Gorgeous!
QuoteA Yellow Warbler, one of several we saw, made an appearance:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/550690039/original.jpg)
Ooooh!
QuoteAnd a Cedar Waxwing showed off its dark pink tongue:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/550690358/original.jpg)
I suspect it was actually trying to cool down
Dick-Turpin-osaurus!
QuoteOur previous attempt to see hummingbirds -- there is only one expected in this area, the Ruby-throated -- was for naught, but our evening walk proved successful, and though the opportunity to photograph these fast-moving rascals was brief, we did have some success as a hummer fed on nearby pickerelweed:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/550691174/original.jpg)
Loud applause from all of us up here in the cheap seats.
QuoteWe also saw a Spotted Sandpiper hunting amongst the lilypads, but he moved so quickly, I could not get a clear shot:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/550690781/original.jpg)
Slow down, you move too fast! You've got to make the photo op last!
He was clearly looking for fun and feelin' groovy.
QuoteWe saw a few other birds as well: Red-winged Blackbirds (so quiet, though! It was too hot to even peep.), a Swamp Sparrow, female American Redstarts, male American Goldfinches, and a few others, and even my state bird, a Baltimore Oriole:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/550690906/original.jpg)
Though I've seen these in my home state, I have never gotten a photo of them there. In Michigan, Ohio, Central America, Washington DC, etc, suuuuure, but in Maryland? Never... because I so rarely see them there.
And we also saw... an American Mink! I was so excited, I
turned off my camera!
By accident, of course. So stupid!! I did manage to get it back on and get one shot. Though the camera was not on the setting I usually use for wildlife, I can at least prove I saw the mink.
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/550691384/original.jpg)
My walking companion did better, getting a burst of photos of the mink.
Loud cries of 'Hoorah' emanating again from the cheap seats
QuoteNotably, we saw no Bald Eagles. I am used to seeing them daily in this area, but this summer, I've had few sightings. They have apparently abandoned what I think of as the Eagle Tree, because I have seen them in previous summers perched on that tree, and they used to nest on the other side of the water from the university, but I haven't seen them there, either. The summer has been weird in several ways; the scarcity of eagle sightings is one of them. And so is the heat.
I have never seen an eagle in the wild. How about that? It's not all gloom: I've seen Marsh Harriers doing their amazing acrobatics above their nest. But I have never seen an eagle.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 11, 2025, 10:31:49 AMWooooah. Stop right there. I have to dive in at this point - I have to - because I know about purple finches. Or at least one particular example. This may be of no interest to you at all, but I have to tell you just in case.
There was an unfashionable American writer called Elswyth Thane, who wrote what we might call Historical Romances, and biographies relating mostly to early American history (Washington et al). My wife introduced her to me, and I loved her style of writing (and her love of England) and read most of what she wrote - including THIS:
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1354492234i/5215918.jpg)
Pub. Duell, Sloan and Pearce, NY (1947)
It's a true account of how she made friends with a purple finch, who decided to stay and live with her. I'm aware that the idea of this could be a real turn-off, but all I can say is that it isn't a sentimentalised account, and if you stumbled across a copy of this slim volume you might find it worth a look. Cheerily illustrated.
Haha, that counts as pretty copper-bottomed knowledge of purple finches to me! Nice story!
Quote from: owlice on August 11, 2025, 07:15:48 AMAnd we also saw... an American Mink! I was so excited, I
turned off my camera!
At least you didn't drop it!
Quote from: Iota on August 11, 2025, 10:53:14 AMHaha, that counts as pretty copper-bottomed knowledge of purple finches to me! Nice story!
The finch used to 'help' Elswyth to write her books. We have proof of this because my copy of the book was a presentation copy, with a signed photo enclosed:
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 11, 2025, 11:02:08 AMThe finch used to 'help' Elswyth to write her books. We have proof of this because my copy of the book was a presentation copy, with a signed photo enclosed:
What a lovely bit of memorabilia! :)
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 11, 2025, 11:02:08 AMThe finch used to 'help' Elswyth to write her books. We have proof of this because my copy of the book was a presentation copy, with a signed photo enclosed:
Sweet!
K
@Elgarian Redux I think that it was you who was stung lately? I ran across this article today about wasps and picnics and thought of you: https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20250808-the-simple-trick-that-stops-hungry-wasps-from-ruining-your-picnic
K
Quote from: Kalevala on August 11, 2025, 12:58:29 PM@Elgarian Redux I think that it was you who was stung lately? I ran across this article today about wasps and picnics and thought of you: https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20250808-the-simple-trick-that-stops-hungry-wasps-from-ruining-your-picnic
Yes indeed. I am grateful for the thought. I still bear the scars and the damaged spectacles (new ones now ordered from my optician).
It wasn't a wasp - it was something much smaller (which I never actually saw) that had somehow managed to get underneath my specs while I was trying to photograph a reed bunting. No picnic was anywhere in sight at the time, alas.
As a final piece of this purple finch extravaganza (let it not be said that GMG did not do justice to the purple finch), here are the endpapers of Elwsyth Thane's book:*
*She is inconsistent about the bird's name. Sometimes it is Che-Wee. Other times it is Chee-Wee. I gather the name mimics its call.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 12, 2025, 12:39:58 AMAs a final piece of this purple finch extravaganza (let it not be said that GMG did not do justice to the purple finch), here are the endpapers of Elwsyth Thane's book:*
*She is inconsistent about the bird's name. Sometimes it is Che-Wee. Other times it is Chee-Wee. I gather the name mimics its call.
If those are her illustrations she seems to have a very nice way with a pencil in her hand.
Quote from: Iota on August 12, 2025, 02:37:24 AMIf those are her illustrations she seems to have a very nice way with a pencil in her hand.
I was wondering about that too.
K
Quote from: Iota on August 12, 2025, 02:37:24 AMIf those are her illustrations she seems to have a very nice way with a pencil in her hand.
Quote from: Kalevala on August 12, 2025, 03:49:59 AMI was wondering about that too.
Sorry - I should have given the artist. The illustrator was Don. C. Eckelberry. I think she knew him through her husband, naturalist William Beebe.
Very hot indeed today - too hot for walking for us, in fact, but we had a go. It seemed that all the wildlife was sensibly hiding somewhere in the shade (unlike us). Then I spotted a small tortoiseshell butterfly, and tried to photograph it even though I can photograph them almost any day in the garden, should I wish it. Five attempts. Every one a blurry coloured blob.
We made a strategic retreat to a cooler place.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 13, 2025, 05:14:14 AMVery hot indeed today - too hot for walking for us, in fact, but we had a go. It seemed that all the wildlife was sensibly hiding somewhere in the shade (unlike us). Then I spotted a small tortoiseshell butterfly, and tried to photograph it even though I can photograph them almost any day in the garden, should I wish it. Five attempts. Every one a blurry coloured blob.
We made a strategic retreat to a cooler place.
What time did you guys go out? And how hot was it? It's become toasty here too. :( I think it's a bit ironical that the clothing that one puts on (to keep the sun off) often makes one feel hotter!
And don't worry about the photos; I'm sure that you'll catch other good ones over time. :)
K
p.s. No word yet as to what killed O1.
Quote from: Kalevala on August 13, 2025, 08:08:31 AMWhat time did you guys go out? And how hot was it?
It would be about 12.30 I think. We'd had an early lunch at a nearby cafe, quite cool by a river under trees. And being quite cool, we thought it was worth trying a walk because there'd be a breeze up on the hills. I suspect the temperature was about 25 - fine for many folks, but very hard work for us old fogeys.
QuoteAnd don't worry about the photos; I'm sure that you'll catch other good ones over time. :)
Oh it's fine. We do the walk for the walk's sake - for the privilege of being there. Photos are bonus extras.
Elgarian, I hope the stings or bites are no longer painful. How is your eyebrow?
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 11, 2025, 10:31:49 AMWooooah. Stop right there. I have to dive in at this point - I have to - because I know about purple finches. Or at least one particular example. This may be of no interest to you at all, but I have to tell you just in case.
There was an unfashionable American writer called Elswyth Thane,* who wrote what we might call Historical Romances, and biographies relating mostly to early American history (Washington et al). My wife introduced her to me, and I loved her style of writing (and her love of England) and read most of what she wrote - including THIS:
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1354492234i/5215918.jpg)
Pub. Duell, Sloan and Pearce, NY (1947)
* She was married to the famous naturalist William Beebe.
It's a true account of how she made friends with a purple finch, who decided to stay and live with her. I'm aware that the idea of this could be a real turn-off, but all I can say is that it isn't a sentimentalised account, and if you stumbled across a copy of this slim volume you might find it worth a look. Cheerily illustrated.
I cannot tell you how much I love this!! All of it-- the book, the autograph, the drawings and photo. All of it is fabulous; thank you for sharing it!!
Thanks, too, Iota and Elgarian Redux, for the kind words. Kalevala, that's sad about O1.
I've been busy and am now thinking about heading home soon. Gotta pay the bird tax on this thread, so here's a bird from last August; I think he's pretty proud of his tail (and who can blame him?! Not I!).
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/420235568/original.jpeg)
Cape Sugarbird
Quote from: owlice on August 13, 2025, 10:13:40 PMGotta pay the bird tax on this thread, so here's a bird from last August; I think he's pretty proud of his tail (and who can blame him?! Not I!).
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/420235568/original.jpeg)
Cape Sugarbird
"So I met this bird selling TAIL FEATHER ELIXIR, and it looked like a bargain so I bought some. 'Grow your tail longer', it said. 'Be the envy of all your feathered friends'.
I swallowed the whole bottle, then discovered you were supposed to take a teaspoonful."
Quote from: owlice on August 13, 2025, 10:13:40 PMElgarian, I hope the stings or bites are no longer painful. How is your eyebrow?
I cannot tell you how much I love this!! All of it-- the book, the autograph, the drawings and photo. All of it is fabulous; thank you for sharing it!!
Thanks, too, Iota and Elgarian Redux, for the kind words. Kalevala, that's sad about O1.
I've been busy and am now thinking about heading home soon. Gotta pay the bird tax on this thread, so here's a bird from last August; I think he's pretty proud of his tail (and who can blame him?! Not I!).
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/420235568/original.jpeg)
Cape Sugarbird
Wow, that's a lot of tail for what looks to be a fairly small bird to take care of! :o
And, thanks. I'm sure that Cornell will announce what they were able to find out--to the best of their abilities--in the end.
K
Quote from: owlice on August 13, 2025, 10:13:40 PMElgarian, I hope the stings or bites are no longer painful. How is your eyebrow?
Almost completely healed now, thank you. I made a lot of fuss about nothing (apart from the cost of new spectacles.)
QuoteI cannot tell you how much I love this!! All of it-- the book, the autograph, the drawings and photo. All of it is fabulous; thank you for sharing it!!
I wonder if you might like to get a bit of the flavour of the text? I've scanned a couple of pages explaining how he learned to help with the typewriter - see attached.
Lovely day today - sunny mostly, bit of a breeze up on the hills, 19 degrees. Very few birds to be seen, but butterflies - wow. It seemed that I saw as many peacock butterflies today as I have seen in my life so far. One of the small tortoiseshells settled on my wife's shoulder (see photo) and gosh, this felt like acceptance of us as fellow creatures of the land.
Too breezy to get good photos though.
Quote from: owlice on August 13, 2025, 10:13:40 PMI've been busy and am now thinking about heading home soon. Gotta pay the bird tax on this thread, so here's a bird from last August; I think he's pretty proud of his tail (and who can blame him?! Not I!).
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/420235568/original.jpeg)
Cape Sugarbird
That's extraordinary! I can't imagine how such a tail could be remotely practical for a bird of that size, it's like one of those long-trained wedding dresses, which are very elegant for weddings, but otherwise resides in the wardrobe. But obviously nature knows better!
@owlice Were you in Africa last year?
K
Thought I'd add a bit more context to our regular bird and butterfly hunting ground. Someone, at some time, has built a fake stone circle up here using old stone gateposts. There are no genuine prehistoric stone monuments nearby as far as I know. Also someone (else?) has erected a wooden statue, a la Easter Island. Don't ask me why. But while you're pondering this, you can turn around and look out across the ever-changing landscape to the hills and clouds, over there, across the green and pleasant land, beyond beyond ...
These birds and butterflies have it made, sure enough.
Quote from: Iota on August 14, 2025, 08:03:13 AMThat's extraordinary! I can't imagine how such a tail could be remotely practical for a bird of that size
It's completely practical: it gets the girls! :laugh:
You might like this site: https://birdhelpful.com/birds-with-long-tails/
Quote from: Kalevala on August 14, 2025, 09:02:33 AM@owlice Were you in Africa last year?
K
Yes, in Kenya and South Africa.
Quote from: owlice on August 14, 2025, 08:40:50 PMIt's completely practical: it gets the girls! :laugh:
You might like this site: https://birdhelpful.com/birds-with-long-tails/
Haha, I figured it might be something like that. It was just my (complete layman's!) first impression that such a tail might be somewhat overdressing for the purposes of flight etc, but your helpful link has dissuaded me completely of that impression. Interesting link too, thanks.
Quote from: owlice on August 14, 2025, 08:40:50 PMIt's completely practical: it gets the girls! :laugh:
You might like this site: https://birdhelpful.com/birds-with-long-tails/
Took a quick gander at the website [No pun intended]...fun website!
Quote from: owlice on August 14, 2025, 09:51:39 PMYes, in Kenya and South Africa.
Cool! 8) I'll bet that you saw all kinds of cool birds and other animals. :) Were you in those countries for very long?
K
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 14, 2025, 06:47:27 AMAlmost completely healed now, thank you. I made a lot of fuss about nothing (apart from the cost of new spectacles.)
I'm glad your wounds are almost completely healed, and you made a very appropriate and fitting fuss! The audacity of the offending insect -- how dare it!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 14, 2025, 06:47:27 AMI wonder if you might like to get a bit of the flavour of the text? I've scanned a couple of pages explaining how he learned to help with the typewriter - see attached.
Thank you very much; you are always so kind! I have already looked into acquiring the book; clearly, I need (
need) this book. (
NEED!)
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 14, 2025, 12:37:47 PMThought I'd add a bit more context to our regular bird and butterfly hunting ground. Someone, at some time, has built a fake stone circle up here using old stone gateposts. There are no genuine prehistoric stone monuments nearby as far as I know.
How lovely it all is!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 14, 2025, 12:37:47 PMAlso someone (else?) has erected a wooden statue, a la Easter Island. Don't ask me why.
I suspect the answer is "Because they could." :D
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/pw/AP1GczN0q4TKp11pQ51yiKYgKzEXM3V6MrXcvDza1_YTU40AdsX_xnxOOjuLwbOcn6_p5c7Uf9i6UCtb0eAVczILR73zNezwl6NGY_HOlR3x1biOsHLlE3Sxdr6IivSlXrCum7KDQih-syogsatuIi5kdNS_gA=w1982-h1104-s-no?authuser=2)
Maybe they want to stare at the seaside and do nothing at all. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ibiS26Tky40&list=PL4fgYrEsEaGA9212kfcTx2xxJFr390jL8)Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 14, 2025, 12:37:47 PMBut while you're pondering this, you can turn around and look out across the ever-changing landscape to the hills and clouds, over there, across the green and pleasant land, beyond beyond ...
These birds and butterflies have it made, sure enough.
As do those who wander among them.
Quote from: Kalevala on August 15, 2025, 03:49:37 AMTook a quick gander at the website [No pun intended]...fun website!
Cool! 8) I'll bet that you saw all kinds of cool birds and other animals. :) Were you in those countries for very long?
K
Yes, I saw a lot of interesting life forms! Africa is fascinating and the wildlife is incredible, stupendous, fabulous! I'd been to both Kenya and South Africa before, and I hope to go to both countries again (and to go to countries I've not been to yet).
One of the best aspects of retirement is not having to restrict travel to just a few weeks a year. I consider it a good year when I'm away from home more than I'm at home.
1 I travel a good bit, some for meeting/conference/workshop type things, for which I also try to fit in some birding/wildlifeing, and some just to go someplace to walk around looking at things. There's a big world out there.
Kitty!
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/34564364/original.jpg)
African Leopard (vulnerable)Puppy!
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/425201531/original.jpeg)
Southern Black-backed JackalFlutterby!
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/315163962/original.jpeg)
Common PathfinderBirdies!
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/402577405/original.jpeg)
African DarterAnother birdie!
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/402175335/original.jpeg)
Gray Crowned-Crane (endangered)1Unless my absence from home is due to disastrous events in others' lives, as sometimes happens, alas.
Quote from: owlice on August 15, 2025, 11:56:25 AMYes, I saw a lot of interesting life forms! Africa is fascinating and the wildlife is incredible, stupendous, fabulous! I'd been to both Kenya and South Africa before, and I hope to go to both countries again (and to go to countries I've not been to yet).
One of the best aspect of retirement is not having to restrict travel to just a few weeks a year. I consider it a good year when I'm away from home more than I'm at home.1 I travel a good bit, some for meeting/conference/workshop type things, for which I also try to fit in some birding/wildlifeing, and some just to go someplace to walk around looking at things. There's a big world out there.
Great photos!
So, I remember that you had said that you had retired from IT. Have you now set up your own company?
K
Quote from: Iota on August 15, 2025, 03:04:13 AMHaha, I figured it might be something like that. It was just my (complete layman's!) first impression that such a tail might be somewhat overdressing for the purposes of flight etc, but your helpful link has dissuaded me completely of that impression. Interesting link too, thanks.
When you're a bird, apparently there's no such thing as overdressing! Have you
seen some of the outfits some feathered dudes wear?! :laugh:
For other takes on birds and fashion, there's this Twitter thread (https://x.com/Birds13Tswift/status/1396253033722429441), and also this one (https://x.com/ReaderMeter/status/1115023694668034048).
Quote from: Kalevala on August 15, 2025, 12:05:13 PMGreat photos!
So, I remember that you had said that you had retired from IT. Have you now set up your own company?
K
No. I had done that early in my career, but then switched back to a "real job" ( :D ) when I became a parent. I have no interest in running a company again.
Quote from: owlice on August 15, 2025, 11:08:49 AMThank you very much; you are always so kind! I have already looked into acquiring the book; clearly, I need (need) this book. (NEED!)
Well I look back at the wonderful array of wildlife photographs you've shown us, and I think you are well ahead in the kindness stakes. But with regard to the book - yes, you do, really. It's a book written for you. I noticed there are still copies to be had (eg ABE books) that don't cost an arm and a leg (or even just an arm), so you should be alright.
I have a little Elswyth Thane story that has nothing to do with birds, but I'm wondering if I can get away with telling it here? The 'Off-Topic' Police might get me, but maybe it's a risk worth taking. I could argue that it's important contextual information for the bird book, couldn't I?
Elswyth Thane adored England and its history and before WW2 she spent her summers here. Out of those experiences came a book:
England was an island once. She describes how she spent a day at Wookey Hole with a friend, worn out by the day's adventure, and also anxious about the threat of war. To recuperate, they took a taxi to the ancient city of Wells:
"As we retraced our steps along the path the thought of that upstairs lounge in the Swan at Wells, its windows looking on the cathedral green, its little coal fire on the hearth, and the generous teas, bulked larger and larger in our thoughts. ...
Wells lived up to it. It was all there - the thrilling, changeless outline of the grey cathedral, the placid stretch of green lawn, the sign of the Swan above the narrow street - the smiling, white-aproned maid, the laden silver teatray, the hot toast, the cakes, the scalding, heavenly tea, at a table in the window. Wells never lets you down."
So we had to go and find the Swan next time we were near Wells, didn't we? It's changed since Elswyth's day. We saw no white-aproned maids. But now they have a little tea-garden between the hotel and the cathedral green, and we sat in the sunshine with a giant pot of tea looking across at Wells cathedral, and I do not think I have ever felt so close to an author as I did sitting there, that afternoon, in the Swan's tea-garden, thinking about Elswyth Thane.
Apologies to those who hoped there would be birds in this.
Quote from: owlice on August 15, 2025, 11:56:25 AMYes, I saw a lot of interesting life forms! Africa is fascinating and the wildlife is incredible, stupendous, fabulous! I'd been to both Kenya and South Africa before, and I hope to go to both countries again (and to go to countries I've not been to yet).
One of the best aspects of retirement is not having to restrict travel to just a few weeks a year. I consider it a good year when I'm away from home more than I'm at home.1 I travel a good bit, some for meeting/conference/workshop type things, for which I also try to fit in some birding/wildlifeing, and some just to go someplace to walk around looking at things. There's a big world out there.
Kitty!
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/34564364/original.jpg)
African Leopard (vulnerable)
You stroked this kitty, yes?
QuotePuppy!
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/425201531/original.jpeg)
Southern Black-backed Jackal
So cute [!!!] I wouldn't buy a used bone from this fellow.
QuoteFlutterby!
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/315163962/original.jpeg)
Common Pathfinder
Not so common around these parts.
QuoteBirdies!
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/402577405/original.jpeg)
African Darter
What a fantastic action shot.
QuoteAnother birdie!
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/402175335/original.jpeg)
Gray Crowned-Crane (endangered)
You couldn't invent birds like this, could you?
More staggering images, Owlice. Thank you.
Quote from: owlice on August 15, 2025, 11:56:25 AMYes, I saw a lot of interesting life forms! Africa is fascinating and the wildlife is incredible, stupendous, fabulous! I'd been to both Kenya and South Africa before, and I hope to go to both countries again (and to go to countries I've not been to yet).
One of the best aspects of retirement is not having to restrict travel to just a few weeks a year. I consider it a good year when I'm away from home more than I'm at home.1 I travel a good bit, some for meeting/conference/workshop type things, for which I also try to fit in some birding/wildlifeing, and some just to go someplace to walk around looking at things. There's a big world out there.
Kitty!
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/34564364/original.jpg)
African Leopard (vulnerable)
Puppy!
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/425201531/original.jpeg)
Southern Black-backed Jackal
Flutterby!
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/315163962/original.jpeg)
Common Pathfinder
Birdies!
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/402577405/original.jpeg)
African Darter
Another birdie!
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/402175335/original.jpeg)
Gray Crowned-Crane (endangered)
1Unless my absence from home is due to disastrous events in others' lives, as sometimes happens, alas.
What a vibrant life you lead. owlice! And another haul of great photos! The African Darter shot is incredibly striking, and the headgear on that Gray Crowned-Crane is extraordinary! The sort of thing you might expect to see on Ladies Day at Royal Ascot.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 15, 2025, 12:22:59 PMWell I look back at the wonderful array of wildlife photographs you've shown us, and I think you are well ahead in the kindness stakes. But with regard to the book - yes, you do, really. It's a book written for you. I noticed there are still copies to be had (eg ABE books) that don't cost an arm and a leg (or even just an arm), so you should be alright.
I have a little Elswyth Thane story that has nothing to do with birds, but I'm wondering if I can get away with telling it here? The 'Off-Topic' Police might get me, but maybe it's a risk worth taking. I could argue that it's important contextual information for the bird book, couldn't I?
Elswyth Thane adored England and its history and before WW2 she spent her summers here. Out of those experiences came a book: England was an island once. She describes how she spent a day at Wookey Hole with a friend, worn out by the day's adventure, and also anxious about the threat of war. To recuperate, they took a taxi to the ancient city of Wells:
"As we retraced our step along the path the thought of that upstairs lounge in the Swan at Wells, its windows looking on the cathedral green, its little coal fire on the hearth, and the generous teas, bulked larger and larger in our thoughts. ...
Wells lived up to it. It was all there - the thrilling, changeless outline of the grey cathedral, the placid stretch of green lawn, the sign of the Swan above the narrow street - the smiling, white-aproned maid, the laden silver teatray, the hot toast, the cakes, the scalding, heavenly tea, at a table in the window. Wells never lets you down."
So we had to go and find the Swan next time we were near Wells, didn't we? It's changed since Elswyth's day. We saw no white-aproned maids. But now they have a little tea-garden between the hotel and the cathedral green, and we sat in the sunshine with a giant pot of tea looking across at Wells cathedral, and I do not think I have ever felt so close to an author as I did sitting there, that afternoon, in the Swan's tea-garden, thinking about Elswyth Thane.
Apologies to those who hoped there would be birds in this.
Another lovely tale, Elgarian!
Quote from: owlice on August 14, 2025, 08:40:50 PMIt's completely practical: it gets the girls! :laugh:
That settles it. I'm getting one too!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 15, 2025, 11:04:31 PMThat settles it. I'm getting one too!
hahahahahahahahaha!!! This made me burst into laughter (which scared the resident cat who is now hiding under the dining room table)!!!
Quote from: Elgarian ReduxI have a little Elswyth Thane story that has nothing to do with birds...
...
Apologies to those who hoped there would be birds in this.
Whatever are you worrying about?! There's a
Swan!!And Swans are undeniably birds!!
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/162307550/original.jpeg)
Three (yup, three) Mute Swans"nothing to do with birds" Sheeesh and pish posh! A Swan and a lovely tale along with it. Thanks for sharing!
Quote from: owlice on August 16, 2025, 08:07:19 AMhahahahahahahahaha!!! This made me burst into laughter (which scared the resident cat who is now hiding under the dining room table)!!!
Whatever are you worrying about?! There's a Swan!!
And Swans are undeniably birds!!
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/162307550/original.jpeg)
Three (yup, three) Mute Swans
"nothing to do with birds" Sheeesh and pish posh! A Swan and a lovely tale along with it. Thanks for sharing!
Oh brilliant. Just brilliant. You've rescued my ailing reputation for thread discipline at GMG (if I ever had one).
The Swan. Oh gosh. How did I miss that? Meanwhile I am trying to count the birds in your fine picture.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 15, 2025, 12:42:49 PMYou stroked this kitty, yes?
Unfortunately, I could not, as kitty was in a tree (as were the leftovers from its most recent meal; I'll spare you that photo!)... this tree, actually; can you find the cat?
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/pw/AP1GczMnFeZrAjYO8fbTacKUWnfy-Zc3jEwM5HD49TIsCzv5YHeEgLVg1x4jRnLlaEx26ghj3ExoPO-OAgEzxDrUPBJE025IbLI_PBQ52oL-Yy9mqx1vukIWmEBoEP-6h58RnSKNZZLy70eT3Rs91MBzl4vt=w1720-h1290-s-no?authuser=3)
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 15, 2025, 12:42:49 PMWhat a fantastic action shot.
I am glad you and
@Iota think so; thank you! I like this photo a lot, and when I look at it, am transported back to the lake and the small boat from which this was taken.
Quote from: Elgarian ReduxYou couldn't invent birds like this, could you?
They look so elegant, but the sound they make (https://youtu.be/ZgUo8Rik4ME) ... is not.
Quote from: Elgarian ReduxMore staggering images, Owlice. Thank you.
You are very welcome, and thank you.
Quote from: owlice on August 16, 2025, 08:41:13 AMUnfortunately, I could not, as kitty was in a tree (as were the leftovers from its most recent meal; I'll spare you that photo!)... this tree, actually; can you find the cat?
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/pw/AP1GczMnFeZrAjYO8fbTacKUWnfy-Zc3jEwM5HD49TIsCzv5YHeEgLVg1x4jRnLlaEx26ghj3ExoPO-OAgEzxDrUPBJE025IbLI_PBQ52oL-Yy9mqx1vukIWmEBoEP-6h58RnSKNZZLy70eT3Rs91MBzl4vt=w1720-h1290-s-no?authuser=3)
This is an
invisible leopard we're talking about, right? Owlice, I have scoured that tree at a magnifying power of 50 million with Super X-Ray vision, and still I see no leopard. This looks like a photo of where a leopard
might have been, once ...
QuoteThey look so elegant, but the sound they make (https://youtu.be/ZgUo8Rik4ME) ... is not.
Ah, music to my ears!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 16, 2025, 10:52:03 AMThis is an invisible leopard we're talking about, right? Owlice, I have scoured that tree at a magnifying power of 50 million with Super X-Ray vision, and still I see no leopard. This looks like a photo of where a leopard might have been, once ...
My camera is pretty good for casual safari pics and I give the camera a lot of credit, but it definitely cannot capture what is invisible; IOW, the leopard is definitely not an invisible leopard! (Imagine how exciting -- in multiple ways -- life on the savanna would be if there
were invisible leopards! :o ) Would you like a hint as to its location in the tree, or should I post a pic with the leopard circled?
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 16, 2025, 10:52:03 AMAh, music to my ears!
hahahahaha!!
Quote from: owlice on August 16, 2025, 11:04:01 AMWould you like a hint as to its location in the tree, or should I post a pic with the leopard circled?
How about a hint for starters? Please?
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 16, 2025, 11:06:33 AMHow about a hint for starters? Please?
I will give you two: the whole leopard is
not visible (because of branches; no invisibility cloaks were used in the production of this image), and it is on a lower, not upper, branch.
Cor Blimey! I see him (her?) - or at least, a leg and a bit of fur. I think. Is this right?
Quote from: owlice on August 16, 2025, 08:07:19 AM(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/162307550/original.jpeg)
Three (yup, three) Mute Swans
Haha, brilliant photo, it's almost as if you told them how to pose!
I have spotted the leopard now, but it took a while! Though perhaps,
@Elgarian Redux you'd prefer me to keep quiet for now, until you've had a good go at it? Anyway I hope the gazelles etc have better eyesight then I do!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 16, 2025, 11:28:57 AMCor Blimey! I see him (her?) - or at least, a leg and a bit of fur. I think. Is this right?
Yes, that's where I see him at least.
Quote from: Iota on August 16, 2025, 11:33:19 AMHaha, brilliant photo, it's almost as if you told them how to pose!
I have spotted the leopard now, but it took a while! Though perhaps, @Elgarian Redux you'd prefer me to keep quiet for now, until you've had a good go at it?
It's OK now, thanks. The cat is out of the
ba .... tree!
Quote from: Iota on August 16, 2025, 11:34:48 AMYes, that's where I see him at least.
Can two such minds be wrong? We wait nervously for the official judgement.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 16, 2025, 11:35:49 AMIt's OK now, thanks. The cat is out of the ba .... tree!
.:laugh:
Quote from: Iota on August 16, 2025, 11:37:26 AM.:laugh:
But I was wrong, wasn't I? The cat is IN the tree!
You are both correct! But while you were finding it, my head decided to do this:
Where the leopard is
(To be sung to a tune of your own devising*)
There is a picture of a landscape with a big ol' tree
In the picture of a landscape with a big ol' tree, there is a safari truck
In the picture of a landscape with a big ol' tree, there is a safari truck with a small acacia tree behind
In the picture of a landscape with a big ol' tree, there is a safari truck with a small acacia tree behind, and the acacia tree has a slanting trunk
The small acacia tree behind the safari truck has a slanting trunk, and following the line of that slanting trunk above the acacia tree, there is the end of a broken limb
The small acacia tree behind the safari truck has a slanting trunk, and following the line of that slanting trunk above the acacia tree, there is the end of a broken limb -- not a little scraggle of a limb that looks like a lightning bolt, but a proper limb -- of the big ol' tree in the picture of a landscape
Following the line of that slanting trunk above the acacia tree behind the safari truck to the broken end of a limb of the big ol' tree in the picture of the landscape and then following the branch of the broken limb -- not the little scraggle of a limb that looks like a lightning bolt, but a proper limb -- there is a leopard's paw
Following the line of that slanting trunk above the acacia tree behind the safari truck to the broken end of a limb of the big ol' tree in the picture of the landscape and then following the branch of the broken limb -- not the little scraggle of a limb that looks like a lightning bolt, but a proper limb -- there is a leopard's paw, and attached to that leopard's paw is a leopard
And that is where the leopard is
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
*Or not. Probably not.
Sometimes I hate my head; this is one of those times.
Quote from: Iota on August 16, 2025, 11:33:19 AMHaha, brilliant photo, it's almost as if you told them how to pose!
O, to have that power!! :laugh:
I was completely confused by the photo when I first saw it. Took me a minute to realize there were three birds, oy!
Quote from: owlice on August 16, 2025, 11:50:15 AMYou are both correct! But while you were finding it, my head decided to do this:
Where the leopard is
(To be sung to a tune of your own devising*)
There is a picture of a landscape with a big ol' tree
In the picture of a landscape with a big ol' tree, there is a safari truck
In the picture of a landscape with a big ol' tree, there is a safari truck with a small acacia tree behind
In the picture of a landscape with a big ol' tree, there is a safari truck with a small acacia tree behind, and the acacia tree has a slanting trunk
The small acacia tree behind the safari truck has a slanting trunk, and following the line of that slanting trunk above the acacia tree, there is the end of a broken limb
The small acacia tree behind the safari truck has a slanting trunk, and following the line of that slanting trunk above the acacia tree, there is the end of a broken limb -- not a little scraggle of a limb that looks like a lightning bolt, but a proper limb -- of the big ol' tree in the picture of a landscape
Following the line of that slanting trunk above the acacia tree behind the safari truck to the broken end of a limb of the big ol' tree in the picture of the landscape and then following the branch of the broken limb -- not the little scraggle of a limb that looks like a lightning bolt, but a proper limb -- there is a leopard's paw
Following the line of that slanting trunk above the acacia tree behind the safari truck to the broken end of a limb of the big ol' tree in the picture of the landscape and then following the branch of the broken limb -- not the little scraggle of a limb that looks like a lightning bolt, but a proper limb -- there is a leopard's paw, and attached to that leopard's paw is a leopard
And that is where the leopard is
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
*Or not. Probably not.
Sometimes I hate my head; this is one of those times.
OK, well let's admit straight out that this is a work of near-genius. If we get the right tune, the right artist and the right producer, I think we could have a hit on our hands here.
The first line fits pretty well to Elvis's 'Stuck on you', and that's so old that people will have forgotten it - so we could steal the tune and no one would notice. Unfortunately it only fits line 1.
The little 3-year old toddler who lives across the road from us would undoubtedly try to fit it to 'Twinkle Twinkle Little Star' or 'Row row row your boat', but I don't think they would work well. Still, they would be out of copyright, which would be a plus.
So there are problems, but hey, it's a masterpiece already, and we have the time.....
Quote from: owlice on August 16, 2025, 11:50:15 AMYou are both correct! But while you were finding it, my head decided to do this:
Where the leopard is
(To be sung to a tune of your own devising*)
There is a picture of a landscape with a big ol' tree
In the picture of a landscape with a big ol' tree, there is a safari truck
In the picture of a landscape with a big ol' tree, there is a safari truck with a small acacia tree behind
In the picture of a landscape with a big ol' tree, there is a safari truck with a small acacia tree behind, and the acacia tree has a slanting trunk
The small acacia tree behind the safari truck has a slanting trunk, and following the line of that slanting trunk above the acacia tree, there is the end of a broken limb
The small acacia tree behind the safari truck has a slanting trunk, and following the line of that slanting trunk above the acacia tree, there is the end of a broken limb -- not a little scraggle of a limb that looks like a lightning bolt, but a proper limb -- of the big ol' tree in the picture of a landscape
Following the line of that slanting trunk above the acacia tree behind the safari truck to the broken end of a limb of the big ol' tree in the picture of the landscape and then following the branch of the broken limb -- not the little scraggle of a limb that looks like a lightning bolt, but a proper limb -- there is a leopard's paw
Following the line of that slanting trunk above the acacia tree behind the safari truck to the broken end of a limb of the big ol' tree in the picture of the landscape and then following the branch of the broken limb -- not the little scraggle of a limb that looks like a lightning bolt, but a proper limb -- there is a leopard's paw, and attached to that leopard's paw is a leopard
And that is where the leopard is
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
*Or not. Probably not.
Sometimes I hate my head; this is one of those times.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 16, 2025, 12:04:35 PMOK, well let's admit straight out that this is a work of near-genius. If we get the right tune, the right artist and the right producer, I think we could have a hit on our hands here.
The first line fits pretty well to Elvis's 'Stuck on you', and that's so old that people will have forgotten it - so we could steal the tune and no one would notice. Unfortunately it only fits line 1.
The little 3-year old toddler who lives across the road from us would undoubtedly try to fit it to 'Twinkle Twinkle Little Star' or 'Row row row your boat', but I don't think they would work well. Still, they would be out of copyright, which would be a plus.
So there are problems, but hey, it's a masterpiece already, and we have the time.....
Haha, you two are clearly creative masters on and off the camera! :laugh:
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 16, 2025, 12:04:35 PMOK, well let's admit straight out that this is a work of near-genius. If we get the right tune, the right artist and the right producer, I think we could have a hit on our hands here.
The first line fits pretty well to Elvis's 'Stuck on you', and that's so old that people will have forgotten it - so we could steal the tune and no one would notice. Unfortunately it only fits line 1.
The little 3-year old toddler who lives across the road from us would undoubtedly try to fit it to 'Twinkle Twinkle Little Star' or 'Row row row your boat', but I don't think they would work well. Still, they would be out of copyright, which would be a plus.
So there are problems, but hey, it's a masterpiece already, and we have the time.....
hahahahaa! The lyrics are the biggest problem! My head thought, "There's a cumulative song in this somewhere," and maybe there is, but I'm pretty sure what my head produced is not it. I'm pretty sure you could come up with better ones for leading someone to the leopard! Not sure the world needs such a song, but maybe with the right lyrics, the right tune, the right artist and the right producer...
We could make millions!! Millions, I tell you!! :laugh:
Quote from: owlice on August 16, 2025, 08:07:19 AMhahahahahahahahaha!!! This made me burst into laughter (which scared the resident cat who is now hiding under the dining room table)!!!
Whatever are you worrying about?! There's a Swan!!
And Swans are undeniably birds!!
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/162307550/original.jpeg)
Three (yup, three) Mute Swans
"nothing to do with birds" Sheeesh and pish posh! A Swan and a lovely tale along with it. Thanks for sharing!
Trust that your kitty has recovered? ;) Or is it someone else's kitty?
K
The wee beastie jumped on the arm of my chair and enthusiastically shed all over my laptop, so has definitely recovered!
Quote from: owlice on August 16, 2025, 01:14:53 PMWe could make millions!! Millions, I tell you!! :laugh:
Unquestionably. I've started spending my share already.
Quote from: owlice on August 16, 2025, 01:14:53 PMWe could make millions!! Millions, I tell you!! :laugh:
OK. Clear space in your bank account. This afternoon I got out my cheap and nasty recording equipment and attempted to put some of the lyrics to music and make a demo. I couldn't tackle the whole thing, but just took the last part, with one or two slight textual adjustments, thus:
Following the line of that slanting trunk
above the acacia tree behind the safari truck
to the broken end of a limb of the big ol' tree ...
[stay with me ...]
in the picture of the landscape, and along the branch
of the broken limb -- not the little limb
that looks like a lightning bolt ...
[we're getting there] ...
but a proper limb – there's a leopard's paw,
and then attached to that leopard's paw
is a leopard, a leopard, a leopard, oh yeah!
And that is where the leopard is
That is where the leopard is,
That is where the leopard is, oh yeah!
The resulting music file was too big to upload here, but I'll give a Soundcloud link below which I hope will work. The vocals aren't very clear so you'll need the words above to follow what's going on.
It will make you cry (for all the wrong reasons)
Where the leopard is (https://soundcloud.com/user-251833972/where-the-leopard-is)
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 17, 2025, 08:11:00 AMOK. Clear space in your bank account. This afternoon I got out my cheap and nasty recording equipment and attempted to put some of the lyrics to music and make a demo. I couldn't tackle the whole thing, but just took the last part, with one or two slight textual adjustments, thus:
Following the line of that slanting trunk
above the acacia tree behind the safari truck
to the broken end of a limb of the big ol' tree ...
[stay with me ...]
in the picture of the landscape, and along the branch
of the broken limb -- not the little limb
that looks like a lightning bolt ...
[we're getting there] ...
but a proper limb – there's a leopard's paw,
and then attached to that leopard's paw
is a leopard, a leopard, a leopard, oh yeah!
And that is where the leopard is
That is where the leopard is,
That is where the leopard is, oh yeah!
The resulting music file was too big to upload here, but I'll give a Soundcloud link below which I hope will work. The vocals aren't very clear so you'll need the words above to follow what's going on.
It will make you cry (for all the wrong reasons)
Where the leopard is (https://soundcloud.com/user-251833972/where-the-leopard-is)
exploding head emoji hereElgarian, you are
amazing!!! WOW!!! I'm laughing in delight at this!!!
WOW!!WOW!!I was going to post some birds, but I need time to listen to this a dozen more times!! (WOW!)
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 17, 2025, 08:11:00 AMOK. Clear space in your bank account. This afternoon I got out my cheap and nasty recording equipment and attempted to put some of the lyrics to music and make a demo. I couldn't tackle the whole thing, but just took the last part, with one or two slight textual adjustments, thus:
Following the line of that slanting trunk
above the acacia tree behind the safari truck
to the broken end of a limb of the big ol' tree ...
[stay with me ...]
in the picture of the landscape, and along the branch
of the broken limb -- not the little limb
that looks like a lightning bolt ...
[we're getting there] ...
but a proper limb – there's a leopard's paw,
and then attached to that leopard's paw
is a leopard, a leopard, a leopard, oh yeah!
And that is where the leopard is
That is where the leopard is,
That is where the leopard is, oh yeah!
The resulting music file was too big to upload here, but I'll give a Soundcloud link below which I hope will work. The vocals aren't very clear so you'll need the words above to follow what's going on.
It will make you cry (for all the wrong reasons)
Where the leopard is (https://soundcloud.com/user-251833972/where-the-leopard-is)
Haha, brilliant, Elgarian! Really catchy too! Bravo!!
Quote from: Iota on August 17, 2025, 09:16:42 AMHaha, brilliant, Elgarian! Really catchy too! Bravo!!
Be careful. Your hearing may never recover.
Trying to regain my composure and capture my resolve to post a few birds here...
{takes deep cleansing breath}
Okay, birds.
Remember the Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird from a previous post and Elgarian verse? Here's another photo of the same bird:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/425212735/original.jpeg)
Tinkerbirds are in the Barbet family. I'd never heard of barbets before taking the safari trip that inspired the purchase of the P900 camera. Gotta pay the thread tax, so here are a few more African Barbets:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/336247997/original.jpeg)
Oops! Sorry... that's a Saguaro cactus on the run.
Let me try again... here's another Tinkerbird:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/428235672/original.jpeg)
Northern Red-fronted Tinkerbird
So cute!
And here's a Red-fronted Barbet:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/315124465/original.jpeg)
Gee, a Red-fronted Barbet looks a lot like a Red-fronted Tinkerbird, which is also a Barbet... who decided that was a good idea?!
The first African Barbet I ever saw was the Red-and-yellow Barbet; my first thought was, "What a crazy-looking bird! Someone sewed together scraps from other projects for this one!"
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/117744585/original.jpeg)
He was eating bits of baked chicken at the time...
Southern Crested Barbets have a similar color palette:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/425200115/original.jpeg)
I still think the Red-and-yellow Barbet is crazy-quiltish! These Black-collared Barbets are sartorially a bit more organized:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/425198568/original.jpeg)
So many spots on this one!:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/412648082/original.jpeg)
D'Arnaud's Barbet
But not all Barbets are spotted/speckled/polka-dotted/yellow or yellowish...
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/276696061/original.jpeg)
Grey-throated Barbet; check out the tufts on his forehead!
I have to stop here... need to listen to a certain Soundcloud again...
QuoteTrying to regain my composure and capture my resolve to post a few birds here...
{takes deep cleansing breath}
Okay, birds.
Remember the Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird from a previous post and Elgarian verse? Here's another photo of the same bird:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/425212735/original.jpeg)
Here's a bird I'd never heard of a few days ago, and now here he is, seeming like an old chum.
QuoteTinkerbirds are in the Barbet family. I'd never heard of barbets before taking the safari trip that inspired the purchase of the P900 camera. Gotta pay the thread tax, so here are a few more African Barbets:
Barbets. You see what I mean? Never heard of 'em then suddenly here they all are.
Quote(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/336247997/original.jpeg)
Oops! Sorry... that's a Saguaro cactus on the run.
These newly evolved cacti with running capabilities ... do we need to worry about them?
QuoteLet me try again... here's another Tinkerbird:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/428235672/original.jpeg)
Northern Red-fronted Tinkerbird
So cute!
Cute indeed.
QuoteAnd here's a Red-fronted Barbet:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/315124465/original.jpeg)
Gee, a Red-fronted Barbet looks a lot like a Red-fronted Tinkerbird, which is also a Barbet... who decided that was a good idea?!
Probably a politician.
QuoteThe first African Barbet I ever saw was the Red-and-yellow Barbet; my first thought was, "What a crazy-looking bird! Someone sewed together scraps from other projects for this one!"
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/117744585/original.jpeg)
He was eating bits of baked chicken at the time...
Looks kind of like a Lesser Spotted Woodpecker gone all wrong.
QuoteSouthern Crested Barbets have a similar color palette:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/425200115/original.jpeg)
Punk barbet!
QuoteI still think the Red-and-yellow Barbet is crazy-quiltish! These Black-collared Barbets are sartorially a bit more organized:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/425198568/original.jpeg)
I call that handsome. Scary but handsome.
QuoteSo many spots on this one!:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/412648082/original.jpeg)
D'Arnaud's Barbet
Barbet with measles!
QuoteBut not all Barbets are spotted/speckled/polka-dotted/yellow or yellowish...
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/276696061/original.jpeg)
Grey-throated Barbet; check out the tufts on his forehead!
Again, strangely scary. Pardon my neuroses.
Superb images yet again. Thank you so much. I simply wouldn't normally be exposed to bird photographs of this calibre.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 17, 2025, 11:03:05 AMThese newly evolved cacti with running capabilities ... do we need to worry about them?
At this point, an army of Saguaros might be very welcome....
Quote from: owlice on August 17, 2025, 11:22:51 AMAt this point, an army of Saguaros might be very welcome....
I can see why (provided they're on your side). I worry about you guys over there.
Fabulous morning up on the hills - and we found a new path, normally too boggy to be traversible by us. So - an adventure!
There was a meadow pipit on the wall, standing sentry just at the start (see below).
And there were lots of reed buntings - specially trained to know precisely how long they can wait on top of a post before flying off just as you click the shutter. I managed not a single successful photo apart from aforesaid pipit. But it is glorious country up there. I'll give something of its flavour.
Quote from: owlice on August 17, 2025, 10:23:43 AM(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/336247997/original.jpeg)
Oops! Sorry... that's a Saguaro cactus on the run.
Hahaha, brilliant, looks like a fugitive sock puppet!
Quote from: owlice on August 17, 2025, 10:23:43 AMThe first African Barbet I ever saw was the Red-and-yellow Barbet; my first thought was, "What a crazy-looking bird! Someone sewed together scraps from other projects for this one!"
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/117744585/original.jpeg)
He was eating bits of baked chicken at the time...
Haha, wow yes, great description!
I singled only those two out,
@owlice , but, almost needless to say, all the photos dazzle and intrigue as always!
Lovely pics too,
@Elgarian Redux, you really have something special going on with your locality, must be a wonderful thing!
Quote from: Iota on August 18, 2025, 02:54:18 AMHahaha, brilliant, looks like a fugitive sock puppet!
:laugh:
@owlice The photo of the African Barbet made me think of this guy: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Hairy_Woodpecker/id [the white speckles on the black]. :)
K
p.s. It's fun/interesting to compare the photos and descriptions of the differences between the hairy and the downy woodpeckers. One big clue: look at the differences between the lengths of their beaks particularly vs. the size of their heads.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 17, 2025, 11:27:07 AMI can see why (provided they're on your side). I worry about you guys over there.
Thank you. I worry, too.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 17, 2025, 11:56:24 AMFabulous morning up on the hills - and we found a new path, normally too boggy to be traversible by us. So - an adventure!
There was a meadow pipit on the wall, standing sentry just at the start (see below).
YAY! for the new path, the adventure, and the pipit!! What a pretty little bird and what lovely lovely views. Glorious indeed -- how wonderful to have such beauty near and around you!!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 17, 2025, 11:56:24 AMAnd there were lots of reed buntings - specially trained to know precisely how long they can wait on top of a post before flying off just as you click the shutter.
Clearly that is their superpower!!
There's a lovely place a few miles away with a scrumptious tea garden, set among tall trees - perfect for breakfast or lunch on a sunny day. There are several resident birds - most notably a jackdaw, a blackbird, and a robin (there are surely more than one of each, but I can't tell them apart).
All these guys have learned that when people eat lunch or breakfast, there's food leftovers to be had, and down they come onto the tables. So brazen are they that sometimes they don't even wait for the patrons to leave the table! Today we had a jackdaw visitation. Jackdawsaurus Rex!
Later at home: a red admiral called in. They're common visitors at the moment - the windfall apples attract them.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 18, 2025, 10:06:14 AMThere's a lovely place a few miles away with a scrumptious tea garden, set among tall trees - perfect for breakfast or lunch on a sunny day. There are several resident birds - most notably a jackdaw, a blackbird, and a robin (there are surely more than one of each, but I can't tell them apart).
All these guys have learned that when people eat lunch or breakfast, there's food leftovers to be had, and down they come onto the tables. So brazen are they that sometimes they don't even wait for the patrons to leave the table! Today we had a jackdaw visitation. Jackdawsaurus Rex!
That's a very handsome Jackdawsaurus Rex!! Definitely a king among lunchers; what a stately dinosaur!
I've had a few encounters with brazen breakfast/lunch freeloaders, too, including this Gallirallusaur who tried to join me the second he saw me sit down and was very persistent:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/59883474/original.jpg)
Buff-banded Rail
and this cheeky Wrenosaur, who similarly wanted to join me at the table:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/352325819/original.jpeg)
Rufous-backed Wren
QuoteLater at home: a red admiral called in. They're common visitors at the moment - the windfall apples attract them.
Lovely!! We have Red Admirals here, too, and also have Red-spotted Admirals, which are solely North American:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/155019130/original.jpeg)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/301529962/original.jpeg)
Red-spotted Admirals
(Also called Red-spotted Purple and White Admiral, because why shouldn't butterflies be as confusing as birds?!?!)
Quote from: Iota on August 18, 2025, 02:54:18 AMHahaha, brilliant, looks like a fugitive sock puppet!
Not a sock I would want to wear, for sure! :o
QuoteI singled only those two out, @owlice , but, almost needless to say, all the photos dazzle and intrigue as always!
You're very kind; thank you.
Quote from: Kalevala on August 18, 2025, 04:24:07 AMp.s. It's fun/interesting to compare the photos and descriptions of the differences between the hairy and the downy woodpeckers. One big clue: look at the differences between the lengths of their beaks particularly vs. the size of their heads.
Yup! Downy beaks are downright dainty; Hairy's are not.
Quote from: owlice on August 18, 2025, 12:38:10 PMI've had a few encounters with brazen breakfast/lunch freeloaders, too, including this Gallirallusaur who tried to join me the second he saw me sit down and was very persistent:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/59883474/original.jpg)
Buff-banded Rail
For pity's sake - is that really as big as it seems? Looks as if he might have pushed you out of your chair.
Quoteand this cheeky Wrenosaur, who similarly wanted to join me at the table:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/352325819/original.jpeg)
Rufous-backed Wren
Wow. Now that is one dazzling bird! Sort of cocky but elegant.
QuoteLovely!! We have Red Admirals here, too, and also have Red-spotted Admirals, which are solely North American:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/155019130/original.jpeg)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/301529962/original.jpeg)
Red-spotted Admirals (Also called Red-spotted Purple and White Admiral, because why shouldn't butterflies be as confusing as birds?!?!)
As the song goes: 'Obfuscation ... is the name of the game'.
These are terrific photos. The antennae are so sharp (mine always have motion blur).
But what I want to know is: how come these butterfly naval officers are all
admirals, whatever their colour? Where are the able seaman butterflies, the petty officers, the ship's pursers? (Web search tells me there is a 'captain butterfly' somewhere.) It's no use having all these admirals demanding that the jibboom spanker should be spliced if there are no lower order butterfly seamen to splice it. I tell you, the butterfly navy is in crisis.
Quote from: owlice on August 18, 2025, 12:38:10 PMI've had a few encounters with brazen breakfast/lunch freeloaders, too, including this Gallirallusaur who tried to join me the second he saw me sit down and was very persistent:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/59883474/original.jpg)
Buff-banded Rail
I've been trying to estimate the actual size of this fellow by comparing him with the knife handle: is he about a foot long? I guess that's big enough to qualify as a disconcerting breakfast guest to accommodate on the table. But for some reason he seems even bigger than that in the photo.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 18, 2025, 10:06:14 AMThere's a lovely place a few miles away with a scrumptious tea garden, set among tall trees - perfect for breakfast or lunch on a sunny day. There are several resident birds - most notably a jackdaw, a blackbird, and a robin (there are surely more than one of each, but I can't tell them apart).
All these guys have learned that when people eat lunch or breakfast, there's food leftovers to be had, and down they come onto the tables. So brazen are they that sometimes they don't even wait for the patrons to leave the table! Today we had a jackdaw visitation. Jackdawsaurus Rex!
(https://www.good-music-guide.com/community/index.php?action=dlattach;attach=125059;image)
Haha, what a redoubtable looking character! I wouldn't presume to come between him and his mid-morning snack!
And, owlice, what colourful and bold visitors you get at your breakfast table!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 18, 2025, 01:01:34 PMBut what I want to know is: how come these butterfly naval officers are all admirals, whatever their colour? Where are the able seaman butterflies, the petty officers, the ship's pursers? (Web search tells me there is a 'captain butterfly' somewhere.) It's no use having all these admirals demanding that the jibboom spanker should be spliced if there are no lower order butterfly seamen to splice it. I tell you, the butterfly navy is in crisis.
.:laugh:
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 18, 2025, 10:45:41 PMI've been trying to estimate the actual size of this fellow by comparing him with the knife handle: is he about a foot long? I guess that's big enough to qualify as a disconcerting breakfast guest to accommodate on the table. But for some reason he seems even bigger than that in the photo.
Do these help?:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/554708891/original.jpg)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/554708858/original.jpg)
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 18, 2025, 01:01:34 PMBut what I want to know is: how come these butterfly naval officers are all admirals, whatever their colour? Where are the able seaman butterflies, the petty officers, the ship's pursers? (Web search tells me there is a 'captain butterfly' somewhere.) It's no use having all these admirals demanding that the jibboom spanker should be spliced if there are no lower order butterfly seamen to splice it. I tell you, the butterfly navy is in crisis.
There are Common Sailers (https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/42789938), which I know are not the same as common sailors, but maybe close enough, especially since they are in the Admiral subfamily?
Will not go down the butterfly rabbit hole, will not go down the butterfly rabbit hole, will not, will not, will not, not not not, nope, not gonna do it...
Quote from: owlice on August 19, 2025, 07:30:05 AMDo these help?:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/554708891/original.jpg)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/554708858/original.jpg)
Good grief.
Three of 'em!! It looks like the dinosaurs have taken control. This is not breakfast: it's Jurassic Park. (Did some of them get in the fridge?)
Quote from: owlice on August 19, 2025, 07:40:44 AMThere are Common Sailers (https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/42789938), which I know are not the same as common sailors, but maybe close enough, especially since they are in the Admiral subfamily?
That is definitely good enough for me. Sailors/sailers - butterflies were never hot on spelling, I guess. The Butterfly Navy lives to fight another day.
QuoteWill not go down the butterfly rabbit hole, will not go down the butterfly rabbit hole, will not, will not, will not, not not not, nope, not gonna do it...
It all sounds very enigmatic. I doubt there are rabbit butterflies, so (picking up on the tone of your comment) my guess would be that you shouldn't, indeed, go down there. Stay with us. We don't want to lose you!
Here's another 'bird and food' story. Some years ago I was in Folkestone, walking along the edge of the harbour (engaged in research, believe it or not), and I saw a kiosk offering jellied eels for sale. I said to my wife: 'I've often heard talk of jellied eels, but never tried them'. 'Now's your chance,' she said.
So I duly purchased a little plastic pot of jellied eels from the kiosk, and stood for a minute or two looking at them. They didn't look very edible, to me.
And as I hesitated there was a great flurry of wings and feathers, and a giant seabird swept down from the sky, snatched my pot of jellied eels, and soared back up into the clouds. I was dumbfounded. I didn't have a chance against this chap. Flap flap swoooosh and away.
You will of course want to know what kind of seabird it was. It was a Great Black-backed Eel-eating Gullosaurus.
To this day, I still have not tasted jellied eels.
(https://kids.kiddle.co/images/thumb/e/e3/Eels_1385.JPG/800px-Eels_1385.JPG)
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 19, 2025, 11:01:44 AMGood grief. Three of 'em!! It looks like the dinosaurs have taken control. This is not breakfast: it's Jurassic Park. (Did some of them get in the fridge?)
Oh, there were a
lot more than three! I gave up one morning and went inside so I could actually eat, rather than defend, my breakfast. Not that inside was bird-free, because it wasn't, but the numbers were much lower.
So far as I know, none of them got into the fridge.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 19, 2025, 11:07:21 AMThat is definitely good enough for me. Sailors/sailers - butterflies were never hot on spelling, I guess. The Butterfly Navy lives to fight another day.
It all sounds very enigmatic. I doubt there are rabbit butterflies, so (picking up on the tone of your comment) my guess would be that you shouldn't, indeed, go down there. Stay with us. We don't want to lose you!
It would be just like an Owlice to go down a rabbit hole, wouldn't it? :laugh:
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 19, 2025, 11:34:49 AMHere's another 'bird and food' story. Some years ago I was in Folkestone, walking along the edge of the harbour (engaged in research, believe it or not), and I saw a kiosk offering jellied eels for sale. I said to my wife: 'I've often heard talk of jellied eels, but never tried them'. 'Now's your chance,' she said.
So I duly purchased a little plastic pot of jellied eels from the kiosk, and stood for a minute or two looking at them. They didn't look very edible, to me.
And as I hesitated there was a great flurry of wings and feathers, and a giant seabird swept down from the sky, snatched my pot of jellied eels, and soared back up into the clouds. I was dumbfounded. I didn't have a chance against this chap. Flap flap swoooosh and away.
You will of course want to know what kind of seabird it was. It was a Great Black-backed Eel-eating Gullosaurus.
To this day, I still have not tasted jellied eels.
(https://kids.kiddle.co/images/thumb/e/e3/Eels_1385.JPG/800px-Eels_1385.JPG)
I suspect that Great Black-backed Eel-eating Gullosaurus did you a HUGE favor! (Kudos to the bird!!) But what kind of research? Were you studying bird snatching behaviors? Food concepts that should never be combined?
...jellied...eels...They do not look very edible to me, either, and in fact, I was wondering whether the photo showed jellied eels
before a bird got to them, or ... umm... a good bit
after snacking on them...
A propos of nothing, here's a smiley dragonfly:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/177869125/original.jpeg)
Red Saddlebags
And a snooty butterfly:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/464788927/original.jpeg)
Malachite
Quote from: owlice on August 19, 2025, 07:39:19 PMOh, there were a lot more than three! I gave up one morning and went inside so I could actually eat, rather than defend, my breakfast. Not that inside was bird-free, because it wasn't, but the numbers were much lower.
More than three?
More than three?QuoteSo far as I know, none of them got into the fridge.
Good. The big thing I learned from
Jurassic Park was that fridges and dinosaurs don't mix well.
Quote from: owlice on August 19, 2025, 07:40:27 PMIt would be just like an Owlice to go down a rabbit hole, wouldn't it? :laugh:
When I first saw your name around here 15-ish years ago (was it really so long?), I'd blithely assumed that an owlice was some sort of American owl and - forgive my simpleton approach - I did not see the connection with the name
Alice! I see now (he said, as one awakening from slumber):
your real name is Alice! [Fireworks light up the sky.]
Well, I'm delighted to meet you. My real name is Alan, and I don't have anything witty to festoon around that, unfortunately.
This explains why so many of our discussions seem to emanate from behind the looking glass.
Quote from: owlice on August 19, 2025, 07:51:06 PMI suspect that Great Black-backed Eel-eating Gullosaurus did you a HUGE favor! (Kudos to the bird!!) But what kind of research? Were you studying bird snatching behaviors? Food concepts that should never be combined? ...jellied...eels...
The research. I might indeed have switched to bird snatching behaviour at that point, but no, it wasn't. [Warning: off-topic account follows.]
I've spent many years researching the life and work of the C19th polymath John Ruskin - famous among other things as the champion of J.M.W Turner. Oh and he's also the author of an almost unknown and weirdly idiosyncratic book on BIRDS, called
Love's Meinie. Here's one of his bird drawings, in the Ashmolean Museum.
(http://ruskin.ashmolean.org/media/collection/w425/Collections/Single_Objects/WA/WA_RS/WA_RS_RUD_201-a-L.jpg)
(I am on topic after all!)
About 25 years ago I stumbled across one of the books from his personal library, lying unrecognised in a secondhand book fair, and it had a drawing in it, by Ruskin! (One of life's great moments.) I bought this Great Treasure for £5, and I think I could say that I've dined out on it, academically, ever since. I'll show the drawing, below. Just a scrawl, really, made at 2 in the morning - but why and where?
Working it all out took years and eventually led me to Folkestone, where he stayed at a hotel on the edge of the harbour in 1887. On 26th August he had a very bad night (we know because he wrote daily letters to his cousin) and sketched the view from his bedroom window - having no paper to hand, he drew it on the endpaper of the book he was reading.
So you see, I had to go to Folkestone and see it all for myself, and check out the relation between the harbour and the hotel. That's why I was there. It turned out to provide all sorts of insights into the later part of Ruskin's life, and into his understanding of Turner's art.
QuoteThey do not look very edible to me, either, and in fact, I was wondering whether the photo showed jellied eels before a bird got to them, or ... umm... a good bit after snacking on them...
I understand the uncertainty. I have never actually seen any jellied eels post-snacked by a black-backed gullosaurus, for which I'm thankful.
Quote from: owlice on August 19, 2025, 07:57:27 PMA propos of nothing, here's a smiley dragonfly:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/177869125/original.jpeg)
Red Saddlebags
The detail on the wings is fantastic. Would the wings have been moving at the time (as I imagine), or were they stationary? Either way I have no concept of how you get such a superb image.
QuoteAnd a snooty butterfly:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/464788927/original.jpeg)
Malachite
By golly yes - very snooty. Clearly fancies himself as an aristocrat among butterflies.
Quote from: owlice on August 19, 2025, 07:51:06 PMI suspect that Great Black-backed Eel-eating Gullosaurus did you a HUGE favor! (Kudos to the bird!!) But what kind of research? Were you studying bird snatching behaviors? Food concepts that should never be combined? ...jellied...eels...
They do not look very edible to me, either, and in fact, I was wondering whether the photo showed jellied eels before a bird got to them, or ... umm... a good bit after snacking on them...
I haven't had jellied eel before, but would be tempted to try it. I do love unagi--particularly in hand rolls.
Clever and deft bird!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 20, 2025, 01:08:57 AMThe research. I might indeed have switched to bird snatching behaviour at that point, but no, it wasn't. [Warning: off-topic account follows.]
I've spent many years researching the life and work of the C19th polymath John Ruskin - famous among other things as the champion of J.M.W Turner. Oh and he's also the author of an almost unknown and weirdly idiosyncratic book on BIRDS, called Love's Meinie. Here's one of his bird drawings, in the Ashmolean Museum.
(http://ruskin.ashmolean.org/media/collection/w425/Collections/Single_Objects/WA/WA_RS/WA_RS_RUD_201-a-L.jpg)
(I am on topic after all!)
About 25 years ago I stumbled across one of the books from his personal library, lying unrecognised in a secondhand book fair, and it had a drawing in it, by Ruskin! (One of life's great moments.) I bought this Great Treasure for £5, and I think I could say that I've dined out on it, academically, ever since. I'll show the drawing, below. Just a scrawl, really, made at 2 in the morning - but why and where?
Working it all out took years and eventually led me to Folkestone, where he stayed at a hotel on the edge of the harbour in 1887. On 26th August he had a very bad night (we know because he wrote daily letters to his cousin) and sketched the view from his bedroom window - having no paper to hand, he drew it on the endpaper of the book he was reading.
So you see, I had to go to Folkestone and see it all for myself, and check out the relation between the harbour and the hotel. That's why I was there. It turned out to provide all sorts of insights into the later part of Ruskin's life, and into his understanding of Turner's art.
I understand the uncertainty. I have never actually seen any jellied eels post-snacked by a black-backed gullosaurus, for which I'm thankful.
Oh, neat! I can't quite make out what all he wrote under his drawing....
K
p.s.
@owlice Nice photos! Do you ever frame any of your photos?
Quote from: Kalevala on August 20, 2025, 07:23:08 AMI haven't had jellied eel before, but would be tempted to try it. I do love unagi--particularly in hand rolls.
It's regarded as a local delicacy in Kent, I believe.
QuoteClever and deft bird!
I can't argue with that!
QuoteOh, neat! I can't quite make out what all he wrote under his drawing....
Above the drawing he writes: 'Pale quiet moonlight clouds'. Below he writes: '1/4 past two - moon set in misty clouds behind Pavilion Hotel'.
There was more writing at the top, almost completely erased, and again, just below the drawing.
It was the mention of the Pavilion Hotel that led me eventually to Folkestone, because (I eventually learned) that was where he'd stayed on previous visits. (On this occasion it was full.)
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 20, 2025, 10:30:31 AMIt's regarded as a local delicacy in Kent, I believe.
I can't argue with that!
Above the drawing he writes: 'Pale quiet moonlight clouds'. Below he writes: '1/4 past two - moon set in misty clouds behind Pavilion Hotel'.
There was more writing at the top, almost completely erased, and again, just below the drawing.
It was the mention of the Pavilion Hotel that led me eventually to Folkestone, because (I eventually learned) that was where he'd stayed on previous visits. (On this occasion it was full.)
Thanks for the info. From (the little) what I've read PE was/is(?) popular in the East End of London.
Have you ever thought about staying at the Pavilion Hotel? :)
K
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 19, 2025, 10:31:53 PMMore than three? More than three?
There were dinosaurs
everywhere!!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 20, 2025, 12:42:35 AMWhen I first saw your name around here 15-ish years ago (was it really so long?)
I have a kind message you wrote to me in March, 2012 in sympathy of my then-newly-broken arm (fixed with titanium; I have since evened out the arms by breaking the other [not on purpose], which now sports steel), so our paths must have crossed before 2012. So yes, 15-ish years ago is plausible, possible, and likely some other -ible, too. :)
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 20, 2025, 12:42:35 AMI'd blithely assumed that an owlice was some sort of American owl
I don't know about
an owlice, but
this owlice is definitely some sort of American owl. :laugh:
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 20, 2025, 12:42:35 AMI did not see the connection with the name Alice! I see now (he said, as one awakening from slumber): your real name is Alice!
Few people make that connection. Really, very very few, maybe one handful in all the decades I've had this handle.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 20, 2025, 12:42:35 AMWell, I'm delighted to meet you.
I'm delighted to re-meet you! I was and am happy to see you again, so very happy!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 20, 2025, 12:42:35 AMThis explains why so many of our discussions seem to emanate from behind the looking glass.
hahahaha!! Yes!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 20, 2025, 01:08:57 AMThe research. I might indeed have switched to bird snatching behaviour at that point, but no, it wasn't. [Warning: off-topic account follows.]
I've spent many years researching the life and work of the C19th polymath John Ruskin - famous among other things as the champion of J.M.W Turner. Oh and he's also the author of an almost unknown and weirdly idiosyncratic book on BIRDS, called Love's Meinie. Here's one of his bird drawings, in the Ashmolean Museum.
(http://ruskin.ashmolean.org/media/collection/w425/Collections/Single_Objects/WA/WA_RS/WA_RS_RUD_201-a-L.jpg)
(I am on topic after all!)
I feel I should know this kingfisher... ! It's a lovely rendering.
(... birds... squirrels... all prey to this owl... )
I mean... ooo, an interesting bit of research, and how fabulous that you found Great Treasure; what a serendipitous find!! Yes, of course you had to find the spot, and see it with your own eyes.
And here it is, almost the anniversary of Ruskin's drawing. We must commemorate the event (right? Surely we must!), but how? By observing the waxing slender crescent moon setting that eve? It will be a Chessie cat smile in the evening sky (which is always a lovely site, when one can see it). With tea and cakes? With a reading from
Love's Meinie (available on Project Gutenberg)? With a parade of Kingfishers (which is likely to happen regardless...)?
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 20, 2025, 04:48:59 AMThe detail on the wings is fantastic. Would the wings have been moving at the time (as I imagine), or were they stationary? Either way I have no concept of how you get such a superb image.
Smiley Saddlebags was perched, wings not moving, and was a superb model: still and steady. And it's the camera, really!
Quote from: Kalevala on August 20, 2025, 07:23:08 AM.@owlice Nice photos! Do you ever frame any of your photos?
Thanks! And no, I have never framed any of my photos. I have a good bit of art that needs framing, so don't need to add to the framing bill! (And I have dreams of commissioning oil or acrylic miniatures of a set of HiRISE images (https://www.uahirise.org/catalog/) someday... ).
Quote from: Kalevala on August 20, 2025, 02:07:03 PMHave you ever thought about staying at the Pavilion Hotel? :)
It was demolished in about 1900, so I'm over a century too late. Ruskin stayed at the nearby London and Paris hotel on this 1887 occasion, just a little further along the edge of the harbour, and that does still exist. I called in there to ask about Ruskin's visit in 1887, and they said "Ruskin
who?" But they could offer me an Elvis impersonator, performing that evening!
I'm pretty sure his window was one of those right above the door (see photo), and the other photo shows the (present day) view from the doorstep (i.e. in the direction of the drawing's view). The historic theft of my jellied eels by a black-backed gull took place on the left, out of the picture.
I'll have to respond to this in bits I think - I have to go out shortly.
Quote from: owlice on August 20, 2025, 10:43:26 PMI have a kind message you wrote to me in March, 2012 in sympathy of my then-newly-broken arm (fixed with titanium; I have since evened out the arms by breaking the other [not on purpose], which now sports steel), so our paths must have crossed before 2012. So yes, 15-ish years ago is plausible, possible, and likely some other -ible, too. :)
Now you mention it, I vaguely remember this, though the date is beyond recall. And now
two broken arms! I suppose you'd have been perched on the edge of a cliff, inching forward to get that slightly better shot of a puffin, or something? And then again later with the other arm?! Oh, crikey no.... My belated sympathies. If I'd known, I'd have sent you another message, and a bunch of grapes.
QuoteI don't know about an owlice, but this owlice is definitely some sort of American owl. :laugh:
I suppose by now you've gone ornithologically native.
QuoteFew people make that connection. Really, very very few, maybe one handful in all the decades I've had this handle.
That's a relief, actually. I thought to myself, 'How could you fail to see something so blindingly obvious?'
QuoteI'm delighted to re-meet you! I was and am happy to see you again, so very happy!
I echo the sentiment, and it's such great fun. It was a grand idea of Fate to put us within each other's orbit again.
QuoteAnd here it is, almost the anniversary of Ruskin's drawing. We must commemorate the event (right? Surely we must!), but how? By observing the waxing slender crescent moon setting that eve? It will be a Chessie cat smile in the evening sky (which is always a lovely site, when one can see it). With tea and cakes? With a reading from Love's Meinie (available on Project Gutenberg)? With a parade of Kingfishers (which is likely to happen regardless...)?
We could do what Ruskin did that evening - as recorded in a letter. He was not well, and deeply unhappy. On a previous miserable night he'd lain 'awake till past one, through six long hours - but then got to sleep after finishing my cold tea and the bits of waste buttered toast ... very thankful for these mercies.' But on the actual night he made the drawing (1st September) he wrote to his cousin:
'The wind rose as it grew dark, and became a gale by ten, which I stayed awake to watch the clouds in. I drank your health in Beaune at 12. Afterwards the wind became really wild - and I had plenty to look at of moonlight in a rage.'
So for strict historical authenticity we need a bottle of Beaune, Owlice. Unfortunately I've reached a stage of life where I can't drink wine without consequences, but I shall drink your health in
something, and call it Beaune!
QuoteSmiley Saddlebags was perched, wings not moving, and was a superb model: still and steady. And it's the camera, really!
Well it's a magnificent image. How big is he?
QuoteI have never framed any of my photos.
They'd deserve it. [I'm allying myself with Kalevala's question here]
Quote(And I have dreams of commissioning oil or acrylic miniatures of a set of HiRISE images (https://www.uahirise.org/catalog/) someday... ).
Again I'm intercepting Kalevala's request, but I have some stuff to say on this. I'll come back to you on this later.
@owlice Custom framing can get rather pricey (particularly if you want museum quality non-reflective glass); however, there are other options. A friend of mine regularly buys stock frames for photos from Michaels (a chain shop here in the US): https://www.michaels.com [ just type in frames into the search engine].
He also is handy with tools. Onetime, he bought a pretty large poster that an outdoor enthusiast took of some mountains, had Michaels drymount it, and then built a basic wooden frame for it.
K
p.s. So sorry to hear about your arms! What happened? :'( :(
A parade of Kingfishers
I did sort of warn of this
Perhaps this is Ruskin's Kingfisher? These are small Kingfishers, about the size of a sparrow, and common to Eurasia.
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/450886558/original.jpeg)
Common Kingfisher
But perhaps it isn't, so here are some other possibilities and improbabilities, but probably mostly the latter...
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/412647499/original.jpeg)
Malachite Kingfisher (Did Ruskin travel to sub-Saharan Africa?)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/411916056/original.jpeg)
And Malachite Kingfisher with breakfast
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/352527512/original.jpeg)
American Pygmy Kingfisher (improbable unless he traveled to Central/South America)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/421826184/original.jpeg)
African Pied Kingfisher (definitely not)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/355171316/original.jpeg)
Amazon Kingfisher (probable? improbable? It would take a Ruskin expert to let us know!)
This is the only Kingfisher where I live; it is the common North American Kingfisher and generally the only Kingfisher in its range. Not the best photo, but it does show male and female so you can see the difference between them. Surprisingly, the female is more colorful (and slightly larger) than the male.
(Unsurprisingly, I have learned this over and over and over again, because this fact slides out of my brain over and over and over again.)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/300574665/original.jpeg)
Belted Kingfisher (maybe improbable)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/224921561/original.jpeg)
Belted Kingfisher chowing down
Check out the beak on this one! This is the Belted Kingfisher's closest (living) relative and occurs in southern Texas and southward.
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/464834252/original.jpeg)
Ringed Kingfisher (maybe improbable)
This Kingfisher also occurs in southern Texas (which gets a lot of Central American birds).
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/352325717/original.jpeg)
Green Kingfisher (also maybe improbable)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/402357125/original.jpeg)
Woodland Kingfisher (probably improbable; these are sub-Saharan birds)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/247613334/original.jpeg)
Gray-headed Kingfisher with a cicada snackie (probably improbable, but what says our expert??)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/247613245/original.jpeg)
Brown-headed Kingfisher and member of the Smokey-eyed Bird Club (probably improbable)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/246570980/original.jpeg)
Giant Kingfisher (and once again, probably improbable)
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 21, 2025, 01:57:42 AMI suppose you'd have been perched on the edge of a cliff, inching forward to get that slightly better shot of a puffin, or something? And then again later with the other arm?!
Quote from: Kalevala on August 21, 2025, 03:42:52 AMSo sorry to hear about your arms! What happened? :'( :(
I wish I had an exciting story to tell for either or both of these unfortunate occurrences, though I did a few times tell people, "Roller derby." But the facts are much more mundane: I tripped. Both times, but not in the same way.
The first one -- left arm -- was broken when I tripped on an uneven sidewalk in downtown DC; I was working and had to go from one of my employer's buildings to another. By good fortune, just that morning I'd had an elevator-lobby conversation with a fellow employee I had just then met; a few hours later, he was driving up the street, saw me on the sidewalk, and said to himself, as he told me, "That looks like the lady I was talking to this morning!" And so it was. He and others provided assistance. I'd also hit my head hard enough to get a really
fabulous black eye.
The second time -- right arm -- was almost two years ago. I was driving from Maryland to Arizona for a conference, a trip of 2K miles. At the halfway point, while making my morning coffee, I tripped and fell at my campsite; my face landed on a railroad tie used for landscaping. (I do not recommend this! The faceplant, I mean; railroad ties for landscaping are perfectly acceptable.) In addition to breaking my nose (not for the first time, alas), I also broke my right arm. (I don't recommend that, either.) I did make it to the conference, though, and was able to present, and this time, even with the broken nose (which I might eventually get fixed), no black eye, woo-hoo!
Quote from: owlice on August 21, 2025, 06:38:14 AMA parade of Kingfishers
I did sort of warn of this
Perhaps this is Ruskin's Kingfisher? These are small Kingfishers, about the size of a sparrow, and common to Eurasia.
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/450886558/original.jpeg)
Common Kingfisher
I think it's almost certainly this one. He travelled often in Europe, but we can rule out all the American kingfishers because he never went to America (he didn't like the idea of a country that didn't have any castles). Similarly, I presume, for Africa.
But heck - look at all the kingfishers he missed!
There are reputedly kingfishers down by the river near here, but in all the years we've lived here, and all the miles I've walked or run or cycled or simply sat by the river during those years, I've only ever spotted a very few. Two? Three? The odd blue streak that
might've been?
I'm posting this image not because it shows unusual birds (it doesn't), or because it's a good photo (it isn't), but because there were several reed buntings accompanying us along today's walk, playing that game they play called 'Here I am! Take my picture! No, sorry I'm gone!'. Eventually I managed to see two together on the same bush at a considerable distance: the only thing worth preserving of the attempts I made - but it was a fine walk.
Quote from: owlice on August 21, 2025, 07:01:17 AMI wish I had an exciting story to tell for either or both of these unfortunate occurrences, though I did a few times tell people, "Roller derby." But the facts are much more mundane: I tripped. Both times, but not in the same way.
The first one -- left arm -- was broken when I tripped on an uneven sidewalk in downtown DC; I was working and had to go from one of my employer's buildings to another. By good fortune, just that morning I'd had an elevator-lobby conversation with a fellow employee I had just then met; a few hours later, he was driving up the street, saw me on the sidewalk, and said to himself, as he told me, "That looks like the lady I was talking to this morning!" And so it was. He and others provided assistance. I'd also hit my head hard enough to get a really fabulous black eye.
The second time -- right arm -- was almost two years ago. I was driving from Maryland to Arizona for a conference, a trip of 2K miles. At the halfway point, while making my morning coffee, I tripped and fell at my campsite; my face landed on a railroad tie used for landscaping. (I do not recommend this! The faceplant, I mean; railroad ties for landscaping are perfectly acceptable.) In addition to breaking my nose (not for the first time, alas), I also broke my right arm. (I don't recommend that, either.) I did make it to the conference, though, and was able to present, and this time, even with the broken nose (which I might eventually get fixed), no black eye, woo-hoo!
It's extraordinary how the most horrible injuries are often caused by something almost trivial - a minor misjudgement while doing an every-day sort of thing. One can't even
learn from such mistakes.
It all sounds horribly painful, but with a noble touch of heroism - getting to the conference and getting the job done in conditions of extreme adversity. It could become the stuff of legends, like Davy Crockett. (I am sitting here thinking of the pitiful fuss I made over an insect bite just a few days ago...)
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 21, 2025, 07:58:07 AMIt's extraordinary how the most horrible injuries are often caused by something almost trivial - a minor misjudgement while doing an every-day sort of thing. One can't even learn from such mistakes.
It all sounds horribly painful, but with a noble touch of heroism - getting to the conference and getting the job done in conditions of extreme adversity. It could become the stuff of legends, like Davy Crockett. (I am sitting here thinking of the pitiful fuss I made over an insect bite just a few days ago...)
Insect bites can literally be deadly; broken arms, not so much. So your fuss was definitely warranted!!
The thing that caused the most physical pain was the dislocation when I fell in DC. Once the fracture was reduced and the bones in their right places again, I felt much much much better.
What hurt the most for the fall a couple of years ago was, as I put it elsewhere: "As I can't car camp with just one good arm, and can't hold a camera, the wildlifeing portion of this trip has ended, darn it. A few photos, taken before the fall, below...." But as you saw from a previous hummingbird photo (https://www.good-music-guide.com/community/index.php/topic,13561.msg1628579.html#msg1628579) (taken at the conference), I did find a way to sling (hahahaha) my camera into action and some wildlifeing did happen anyway.
What was soothing and lovely was other people; so many kindnesses were extended to me in both incidents, by both friends and strangers, I get teary-eyed even thinking about it. If there is any heroism in these events, that is their heroism and they are truly the heroes.
It wasn't the journey I'd planned but was the one I got.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 21, 2025, 01:57:42 AMI echo the sentiment, and it's such great fun. It was a grand idea of Fate to put us within each other's orbit again.
Indeed!! :) :) :) :) :) :) :)
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 21, 2025, 01:57:42 AMWell it's a magnificent image. How big is he?
Thank you. I'm so glad he (or she; I have no idea how to tell the difference) stayed still. He's an average size for a dragonfly, not one of those little dainties that are so small and thin they are almost invisible, and not one of the huge ones that seem able to take a saddle slung over them for a quick ride.
Dainty
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/519809029/original.jpg)
Ebony Jewelwing (technically a damselfly)Biplane
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/156129046/original.jpeg)
Eastern Pondhawk
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 21, 2025, 07:29:07 AMThere are reputedly kingfishers down by the river near here, but in all the years we've lived here, and all the miles I've walked or run or cycled or simply sat by the river during those years, I've only ever spotted a very few. Two? Three? The odd blue streak that might've been?
I usually hear kingfishers before I see them, and that of course prompts me to look for them. No wonder it is hard to see your local kingfisher: it's
tiny!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 21, 2025, 07:44:08 AMI'm posting this image not because it shows unusual birds (it doesn't), or because it's a good photo (it isn't), but because there were several reed buntings accompanying us along today's walk, playing that game they play called 'Here I am! Take my picture! No, sorry I'm gone!'. Eventually I managed to see two together on the same bush at a considerable distance: the only thing worth preserving of the attempts I made - but it was a fine walk.
It's a fine photo of lovely birds! I am glad you got in a nice walk; I hope to do the same this evening, as the weather is very nice today... blue sky, comfortable temperature.
Quote from: owlice on August 20, 2025, 10:43:26 PMI have dreams of commissioning oil or acrylic miniatures of a set of HiRISE images (https://www.uahirise.org/catalog/) someday... ).
I am not surprised! I've never seen these Mars images before, but they are
spectacular and very beautiful, and I'm reminded of the tremendous excitement, in my teens, when the wonderful Ranger series of Moon missions started, followed by Mariner 4, with its Mars flyby. Those images seem crude now, but they were immensely superior to any Earth-based photos. I had photographs of the Moon, and Mars, all over my bedroom wall. In those days there was the US Information Service, situated in the US Embassy in London, and you could write to them, and they would send free packs of glorious photos from the space missions.
At that time I was trying to decide whether I wanted to be a pop singer (unrealistic because I couldn't sing or play guitar very well) or an astronomer. Astronomy won, and in due course I got to do some postgraduate radio astronomy, only to find that although I loved astronomy, I was a poor radio astronomer. So I changed tack at that point, and astronomy gradually fell by the wayside as an active pursuit. I still keep up my Fellowship of the Royal Astronomical Society, but if I'm honest, it's really just a kind of comfort blanket.
I can stretch the off-topicness of this even further by posting a chart recording of a radio interferometer scan of the quasar CTA102, which I made in 1972, and might be of interest (as an antique), even though there are certainly no birds anywhere near CTA102.
Quote from: owlice on August 21, 2025, 09:00:46 AMIt wasn't the journey I'd planned but was the one I got.
I think we could quote this as a useful observation on life in general.
Quote from: owlice on August 21, 2025, 10:25:34 AMDainty
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/519809029/original.jpg)
Ebony Jewelwing (technically a damselfly)
The
colour!!!
QuoteBiplane
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/156129046/original.jpeg)
Eastern Pondhawk
It really
is a biplane. Watch the skies!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 21, 2025, 12:13:18 PMAstronomy won, and in due course I got to do some postgraduate radio astronomy
I need a head-exploding emoji again.
HOW did I not know this years ago?! How? How???
Quote from: owlice on August 21, 2025, 12:55:28 PMI need a head-exploding emoji again. HOW did I not know this years ago?! How? How???
I don't think I ever mentioned it!
Are you perchance familiar with Astronomy Picture of the Day (APOD (https://apod.nasa.gov/))?
Quote from: owlice on August 21, 2025, 05:22:26 PMAre you perchance familiar with Astronomy Picture of the Day (APOD (https://apod.nasa.gov/))?
No, but I clicked your link (thank you) and saw the Ring nebula image (gosh!), and remembered standing in my garden for ages looking at the space between the two bottom stars in Lyra with my homemade 4" reflector, until I could convince myself that I could
just see it as a tiny fuzzy blob. L-o-n-g time ago! 1964? 'A Hard Day's Night' sort of period I should think.
Do you ask for some particular reason?
AddendumI just dug out my battered little notebook of astronomical observations and sure enough - August 1964. Very schoolboy-ish!
[Thread duty: the constellation of Lyra was often depicted on star maps in days of yore as an eagle carrying a lyre.]
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 21, 2025, 11:22:28 PMDo you ask for some particular reason?
Mostly because a lot of people who like astronomy who know of APOD really like it, so I thought if you didn't know about it, you should! :)
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 21, 2025, 11:22:28 PMAddendum
I just dug out my battered little notebook of astronomical observations and sure enough - August 1964. Very schoolboy-ish!
I would say that's quite scholarly for a young person, and I'm amazed you still have (and could easily find) that notebook.
Ooof, meeting. More later.
@owlice and others here: If you have any, do your children also like to birdwatch?
K
Quote from: Kalevala on August 22, 2025, 08:37:04 AM@owlice and others here: If you have any, do your children also like to birdwatch?
K
My son has his own bird classification system; I don't remember all the details, but it's along the lines of:
McDonald's bird
Large McDonald's bird
Little chirpy non-McDonald's bird
Red bird (any bird that's red)
Blue bird (any bird that's blue)
Goose-like bird (may include ducks)
Seagull
Turkey
"McDonald's bird" - usually House Sparrow
"Large McDonald's bird" - usually European Starling, but can also include other birds
That said, he will sometimes send me a (usually bad) photo of a bird or call/text me to describe a bird so I can ID it for him when a bird falls outside of his classification system. And he's also interested/patient enough when we're outside to put up with me looking at/pointing out/photographing birds.
That said, his knowledge of plants far outstrips mine, so when we're outside together, there's a lot of info coming from him to me about plants (and sometimes trees), too, and that means I'm also photographing plants.
Quote from: owlice on August 22, 2025, 09:02:10 AMMy son has his own bird classification system; I don't remember all the details, but it's along the lines of:
McDonald's bird
Large McDonald's bird
Little chirpy non-McDonald's bird
Red bird (any bird that's red)
Blue bird (any bird that's blue)
Goose-like bird (may include ducks)
Seagull
Turkey
"McDonald's bird" - usually House Sparrow
"Large McDonald's bird" - usually European Starling, but can also include other birds
That said, he will sometimes send me a (usually bad) photo of a bird or call/text me to describe a bird so I can ID it for him when a bird falls outside of his classification system. And he's also interested/patient enough when we're outside to put up with me looking at/pointing out/photographing birds.
That said, his knowledge of plants far outstrips mine, so when we're outside together, there's a lot of info coming from him to me about plants (and sometimes trees), too, and that means I'm also photographing plants.
Does he have the Merlin app on his phone?
K
Quote from: Kalevala on August 22, 2025, 09:13:06 AMDoes he have the Merlin app on his phone?
K
I don't know.
Quote from: owlice on August 22, 2025, 09:26:29 AMI don't know.
I know one way to find out: ask. ;) :)
K
Quote from: Kalevala on August 22, 2025, 09:28:07 AMI know one way to find out: ask. ;) :)
K
Well, yes, but it's not really my business what apps he has.
Quote from: owlice on August 22, 2025, 06:55:42 AMMostly because a lot of people who like astronomy who know of APOD really like it, so I thought if you didn't know about it, you should! :)
I have bookmarked the link. Thank you. That Ring Nebula image is exquisite.
QuoteI would say that's quite scholarly for a young person, and I'm amazed you still have (and could easily find) that notebook.
I found it by accident in a box in the loft a couple of years ago, and decided to keep it available on a bookshelf instead. I don't know why. A reminder of who I once was (or am)?
Enough of this off-topic nonsense. Birds. Let us be rigorous. Today's walk was cold, dull, grey, and a bit forbidding. Aslan and Red Cloud stared at us as if we had come from Mars. The birds and butterflies must have thought we were daft, and as far as we could see, no living wild thing made an appearance anywhere.
Negative evidence duly reported.
Quote from: owlice on August 22, 2025, 10:05:14 AMWell, yes, but it's not really my business what apps he has.
Perhaps he doesn't know about it? I don't know how old he is, but if he doesn't want to answer your question...fine. Or you can just tell him about it and show how you use yours and how helpful it can be? And leave it at that (plus also that it's free and a bit about the folks who have developed it). Besides the photos, it also has various recordings of bird calls and how common they are where he is...probably more helpful than you being sent blurry pictures and, hopefully, he focused a bit on the sounds that the bird was making. :) Plus there are options (if photo isn't good) about identifying with the size of the bird (compared to others), what kind of location one finds it in, zip code, main three feather colors, likelyhood of seeing it during certain times of the year, etc.
p.s. Several folks told me about the app and I wasn't offended; I appreciated the tip(s).
K
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 22, 2025, 11:15:23 AMEnough of this off-topic nonsense. Birds. Let us be rigorous.
I saw nothing on Friday, but I did hear a White-breasted Nuthatch when I moved my car from the driveway to the street. Here are two nuthatches from other days/times/locations:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/364976414/original.jpeg)
White-breasted Nuthatch
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/431182306/original.jpeg)
Eurasian Nuthatch
for those on the other side of the pond
Quote from: owlice on August 22, 2025, 08:19:38 PMI saw nothing on Friday, but I did hear a White-breasted Nuthatch when I moved my car from the driveway to the street. Here are two nuthatches from other days/times/locations:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/364976414/original.jpeg)
White-breasted Nuthatch
I've always been hopeless at birdsong recognition, and now, with my hearing slowly fading, I'm even worse. He's a fine fellow.
Quote(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/431182306/original.jpeg)
Eurasian Nuthatch for those on the other side of the pond
Gorgeous! Once, just once, one of these visited us and lingered for a while on the Scots pine at the end of our garden. I live in hope of a second visit ....
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 22, 2025, 11:43:32 PMOnce, just once, one of these visited us and lingered for a while on the Scots pine at the end of our garden. I live in hope of a second visit ....
I hope you get a second, and then a third, fourth, fifth, etc., visit!
~~~~
The answer to the question, "Can I take 200 bad photos in a row?" is undeniably yes. Yes, I can, and did so this morning (probably not for the first time). It was lovely to be out in the brisk wind, walk around sewage ponds, and look for and at birds.
Bad photos may be coming up; you have been forewarned...
Quote from: owlice on August 23, 2025, 09:15:05 AMThe answer to the question, "Can I take 200 bad photos in a row?" is undeniably yes. Yes, I can, and did so this morning (probably not for the first time). It was lovely to be out in the brisk wind, walk around sewage ponds, and look for and at birds.
Bad photos may be coming up; you have been forewarned...
Bring 'em on, and we will marvel. You're an inspiration to all those of us who are truly expert at taking bad bird photos.
I've heard owls a couple of times in the last week during my morning walks, which Merlin identified as Barred Owls. Cool, I'm thinking, then I saw this article in a local newspaper.
Multiple Owl-saults reported this week (https://www.lagniappemobile.com/news/mobileal/multiple-owl-saults-reported-this-week/article_e2075833-fcc2-446f-9dbc-19de2c97995d.html?utm_source=lagniappemobile.com&utm_campaign=%2Fnewsletter%2Foptimize%2Fdaily-headlines%2F%3F-dc%3D1755946863&utm_medium=email&utm_content=read%20more)
Owch!
Quote from: Wendell_E on August 23, 2025, 12:49:29 PMI've heard owls a couple of times in the last week during my morning walks, which Merlin identified as Barred Owls. Cool, I'm thinking, then I saw this article in a local newspaper.
Multiple Owl-saults reported this week (https://www.lagniappemobile.com/news/mobileal/multiple-owl-saults-reported-this-week/article_e2075833-fcc2-446f-9dbc-19de2c97995d.html?utm_source=lagniappemobile.com&utm_campaign=%2Fnewsletter%2Foptimize%2Fdaily-headlines%2F%3F-dc%3D1755946863&utm_medium=email&utm_content=read%20more)
Owch!
The link says that we Brits aren't allowed in, sadly. So my imagination is trying to grapple with the idea of 'Owl-saults', without success.
Is there an Owl expert nearby, perchance?
Quote from: Wendell_E on August 23, 2025, 12:49:29 PMI've heard owls a couple of times in the last week during my morning walks, which Merlin identified as Barred Owls. Cool, I'm thinking, then I saw this article in a local newspaper.
Multiple Owl-saults reported this week (https://www.lagniappemobile.com/news/mobileal/multiple-owl-saults-reported-this-week/article_e2075833-fcc2-446f-9dbc-19de2c97995d.html?utm_source=lagniappemobile.com&utm_campaign=%2Fnewsletter%2Foptimize%2Fdaily-headlines%2F%3F-dc%3D1755946863&utm_medium=email&utm_content=read%20more)
Owch!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 23, 2025, 01:20:32 PMThe link says that we Brits aren't allowed in, sadly. So my imagination is trying to grapple with the idea of 'Owl-saults', without success.
Is there an Owl expert nearby, perchance?
It says that I need to subscribe to read it. I did find this though on the Audubon's website:
https://www.audubon.org/news/no-barred-owls-are-not-trying-kill-you
K
Quote from: Kalevala on August 23, 2025, 02:26:39 PMIt says that I need to subscribe to read it. I did find this though on the Audubon's website:
https://www.audubon.org/news/no-barred-owls-are-not-trying-kill-you
K
Thanks Kalevala. Scary stuff - even scarier than greater black-backs stealing one's jellied eels. But even lapwings can be extremely territorial when you walk near their nests. Such a lot of noise and swooping around (though not so intimidating as a 5 foot wingspan would be!).
Quote from: Kalevala on August 23, 2025, 02:26:39 PMIt says that I need to subscribe to read it.
Yeah, I thought about that after I posted. Here are some quotes:
QuoteThey're back.
Owls were on the attack again in Mobile this week, with one runner saying she was knocked down and mauled. And another saying he was targeted downtown, an area that has been free of any recent reported attacks.
The new cases mark a continuation in a bizarre trend of violent encounters with large birds of prey, with incidents happening despite the victims being in densely residential areas.
According to wildlife officials, the owls are being territorial and protecting their nests during breeding season. A string of similar attacks began surfacing on the verge of fall 2024 in Ashland Place and the Village of Spring Hill. However, this most recent activity indicates the attacks are now spreading to other parts of town....
Allison Bailey, a Georgia resident who was visiting her great aunt in Mobile, told Lagniappe she was jogging on Wingfield Drive near Spring Hill Avenue, just west of Ashland Place, this past Sunday when she was struck in the head from behind around 7:30 a.m.
"It was something big and heavy and it knocked me over," Bailey said. "I went down on my knee and I remember thinking, did someone throw something at me? Am I getting mobbed or something, cause you know your first thought is never owl attack."
When she looked up, she saw the wide-eyed avian staring her down.
"I see this big, burly owl," Bailey said. "It had made a pass over me from behind and raked my head, and now he was in front of me."
Bailey said the owl reared again for another pass.
"The thing came back at me," she said. "I stopped and I pointed and I yelled, 'No, absolutely not.' Instead of swooping down at me, it sort of soared over me and then landed in a tree. I just backed away while keeping eye contact with him. It was the weirdest thing."
Bailey said she suffered puncture wounds on her head from the owl's talons, but was not seriously injured....
Owls are federally protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918, meaning residents cannot capture, relocate or kill them. If encountering an owl, state wildlife officials recommend first making loud noises to intimidate the bird and then quickly leaving the immediate area where it is likely attempting to protect a nest.
We chose a slightly different area to walk today - lovely warm day. The odd reed bunting, but curiously very few birds around, apart from a few rooks/crows in a field. I've reminded myself from time to time how to distinguish rooks from crows, but never managed to learn. It just doesn't stick. Presumably I don't care enough? So I use the old maxim: if there's one it's a crow; more than one, they're rooks. How reliable is that? Anyone know?
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 24, 2025, 04:49:23 AM... odd reed bunting...
What, pray tell, was odd about the reed bunting? :D
Yestermorning, I joined a few others for a birding walk, ably led by a student at the local university and assisted by the recent graduate who initiated these sort-of-monthly outings. Sewage (or if you prefer, waste water) ponds are generally very good for seeing birds, though they (the birds) may be farther away than one might like.
They were all farther away than one might like.
Here are some of the things I saw.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/pw/AP1GczPkpgS33Mwu7MK2bxmp_LFtP5NPJ_u3VF3g1zoeoYy6DgWofsg7BzwrL_SzMBiAxGQI5kY8-ZJxvTXwesdf1iSF4dyjzXTM-XPLtr6xq8qO0-KmXEXRI3kaLHzTPpS1mFNq0FR0evaWvWmFLyOawGJxhA=w1280-h960-s-no?authuser=1)
Look!! Teeny tiny ducks!! Mostly Ring-necked Ducks and Blue-winged Teals
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/556544472/original.jpg)
Solitary Sandpiper
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/556544502/original.jpg)
Immature Bald Eagle; they don't get the white head and tail until age 5
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/556544558/original.jpg)
White-tailed Deer (doe)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/556544574/original.jpg)
White-tailed Deer (fawn)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/556544842/original.jpg)
Northern Harrier showing off its diagnostic white rump
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/556544989/original.jpg)
Northern Harriers not showing off their diagnostic white rumps; we theorized that these and the other Harriers we saw were likely siblings
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/556545114/original.jpg)
Ring-necked Ducks
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/556545242/original.jpg)
The large blurry bird is a Lesser Yellowlegs; the two smaller blurry birds are Least Sandpipers
There were also perching birds, such as Red-eyed Vireos, Cedar Waxwings, Tennessee Warblers, and Savannah Sparrows, most of which I did not get photos of, or in some cases, didn't see at all (looking at, or rather, for you, Tennessee Warblers).
But all in all, it turned out to be a lovely day to be out.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/pw/AP1GczNppVpz4uh34Lu99eTSD6jiieIAZkHX9MTzZwczTMhen107KbCbj_kx7V542RBNEXBtefTkODMs-J006_i4q2Bm9HHIa2WdSKb1qYPLXuhluiZYi-uWwis8piyNqmcO0QKxhpejKaMIIMQ84WWKNc7StQ=w1280-h960-s-no?authuser=1)
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 24, 2025, 04:49:23 AMWe chose a slightly different area to walk today - lovely warm day. The odd reed bunting, but curiously very few birds around, apart from a few rooks/crows in a field. I've reminded myself from time to time how to distinguish rooks from crows, but never managed to learn. It just doesn't stick. Presumably I don't care enough? So I use the old maxim: if there's one it's a crow; more than one, they're rooks. How reliable is that? Anyone know?
I don't know anything about rooks, but in the States crows are very often seen in groups--off the top of my head--like 3-5. Where one flies, the others often follow and they'll hang out near each other.
By the way, over the years I've found out how smart the birds are and also that they remember who has been kind to them. :)
K
Quote from: owlice on August 24, 2025, 06:47:06 AMYestermorning, I joined a few others for a birding walk, ably led by a student at the local university and assisted by the recent graduate who initiated these sort-of-monthly outings. Sewage (or if you prefer, waste water) ponds are generally very good for seeing birds, though they (the birds) may be farther away than one might like.
They were all farther away than one might like.
Here are some of the things I saw.
Glad that you had an excellent day out! :)
K
Quote from: owlice on August 24, 2025, 06:47:06 AMYestermorning, I joined a few others for a birding walk, ably led by a student at the local university and assisted by the recent graduate who initiated these sort-of-monthly outings. Sewage (or if you prefer, waste water) ponds are generally very good for seeing birds, though they (the birds) may be farther away than one might like.
They were all farther away than one might like.
Here are some of the things I saw.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/pw/AP1GczPkpgS33Mwu7MK2bxmp_LFtP5NPJ_u3VF3g1zoeoYy6DgWofsg7BzwrL_SzMBiAxGQI5kY8-ZJxvTXwesdf1iSF4dyjzXTM-XPLtr6xq8qO0-KmXEXRI3kaLHzTPpS1mFNq0FR0evaWvWmFLyOawGJxhA=w1280-h960-s-no?authuser=1)
Look!! Teeny tiny ducks!! Mostly Ring-necked Ducks and Blue Teals
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/556544472/original.jpg)
Solitary Sandpiper
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/556544502/original.jpg)
Immature Bald Eagle; they don't get the white head and tail until age 5
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/556544558/original.jpg)
White-tailed Deer (doe)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/556544574/original.jpg)
White-tailed Deer (fawn)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/556544842/original.jpg)
Northern Harrier showing off its diagnostic white rump
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/556544989/original.jpg)
Northern Harriers not showing off their diagnostic white rumps; we theorized that these and the other Harriers we saw were likely siblings
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/556545114/original.jpg)
Ring-necked Ducks
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/556545242/original.jpg)
The large blurry bird is a Lesser Yellowlegs; the two smaller blurry birds are Least Sandpipers
There were also perching birds, such as Red-eyed Vireos, Cedar Waxwings, Tennessee Warblers, and Savannah Sparrows, most of which I did not get photos of, or in some cases, didn't see at all (looking at, or rather, for you, Tennessee Warblers).
But all in all, it turned out to be a lovely day to be out.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/pw/AP1GczNppVpz4uh34Lu99eTSD6jiieIAZkHX9MTzZwczTMhen107KbCbj_kx7V542RBNEXBtefTkODMs-J006_i4q2Bm9HHIa2WdSKb1qYPLXuhluiZYi-uWwis8piyNqmcO0QKxhpejKaMIIMQ84WWKNc7StQ=w1280-h960-s-no?authuser=1)
Are these the 'bad' photos you were warning us about? (Pause while I quietly boggle.)
And that sewage pond (sewage/waste? Really?) looks like an awfully nice place to be.
And frankly the photos are gorgeous. Even the very distant view of ducks looks like a
professional distant view of ducks.
The photo of the solitary sandpiper makes a lovely play between the bird and its reflection. I am worried, however, about the logical complexities of seeing more than one solitary sandpiper together. I can envisage a situation where one might be driven to say: 'this solitary sandpiper is not a solitary sandpiper!' Imagine the confusion.
Quote from: owlice on August 24, 2025, 05:50:39 AMWhat, pray tell, was odd about the reed bunting? :D
Owlice, this calls for a witty response and I can't think of one. We could observe that a single bunting is an odd number of buntings. Or I might have invented a story about how all the buntings we saw were clustered in groups of 3, 5, 7, and 9. Or I could have said that it stood still for ages to allow me to take a photo - now that
would've been odd. But none of this is amusing or witty, so I think the best thing to do is to award you 10 points for careful reading.
Quote from: owlice on August 07, 2025, 02:54:39 AMTa-daaaa indeed -- this is splendid!! Very well done, brilliant Elgarian, and kudos to you for seeing it through!!
Such delights, birds and verse, and birds in verse as well!!
Kalevala's post re: the Red-winged Blackbird brought home to my pea brain that these birds are only in North America. DOH! I see them so often and in such numbers I'd forgotten they aren't everywhere; my apologies! (I feel quite stupid now! I wish I could say it's an odd sensation, but it is far more common to me than even Red-winged Blackbirds are, alas.)
I have already posted a pic of a female specimen; here are a few more photos to go with that one, and yes, only the male is black:
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/202615931/original.jpeg)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/201071873/original.jpeg)
Classic over-the-shoulder Vogue shot
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/212659416/original.jpeg)
(https://inaturalist-open-data.s3.amazonaws.com/photos/498074004/original.jpeg)
As the last photo suggests, these birds favor swampy/reedy areas; even small swampy/reedy areas are enough for them. The main U.S. Department of the Interior building in Washington, DC has a small man-made wet habitat area in front of it, enough to sustain a few ducks and nesting Red-winged Blackbirds. I've also seen an occasional Great Blue Heron in it, and once, a Red-tailed Hawk feeding on a Mallard (with resident Mallards looking on in, well, probably horror, and definitely anxiety, from the other side of the small space).
Red-winged Blackbirds (RWB) defend their nesting territory with vigor, as some workmen discovered one day as they left the Department of Interior; they had thought it funny when one guy some 10 or 12 paces in front of them walked too close to this small habitat and was dive-bombed by an angry blackbird. They stopped laughing when they made the same mistake and were hit repeatedly by the bird. :laugh: (I worked nearby and was walking to my car to feed the meter... on the other side of the street, because I'd had my own run-in with that same bird.)
Celebrating birds in verse,
Of habits there truly are worse.
Quote from: Karl Henning on August 24, 2025, 10:03:13 AMCelebrating birds in verse,
Of habits there truly are worse.
Why Karl, old friend, how very good to see
You've come a-birding here today with me.
Pull up a comfy chair! Stoke up the fire.
Let's watch the flick'ring flames go higher and higher,
And talk of cabbages and ancient kings,
Mysterious birds, and butterflies with wings.
Owlice you know of old. And she can show
The finest birding photographs I know.
Tall tales are what we tell: the birds we've seen,
The strange and glorious places we have been.
Drink cocoa! Warm your feet, my dear old fellow,
And sit here till your thoughts grow warm and mellow.
For sometimes we just can't find any words
To explain the thrill and joy of watching birds.
(Iambic pentameter is a tyrant!!!)
Kudos!!!
Slightly modified to be stitched onto a pillow somewhere (where brevity is often necessary):
Sometimes we cannot find the words
To explain the joy of watching birds
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 24, 2025, 09:48:54 AMAnd that sewage pond (sewage/waste? Really?) looks like an awfully nice place to be.
If you're upwind, sure!
Downwind, and you'd be moving a little faster to get upwind. :laugh:
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 24, 2025, 09:48:54 AMAre these the 'bad' photos you were warning us about? (Pause while I quietly boggle.)
These are the best of just over 200 photos. Only one or two of these are sharp; the rest are some shade of fuzzy (and most of the ones not posted are fuzzier still). Some of that is due to the photographer, surely, but the camera is best in good light, and light during the walk was not very good until the very end.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 24, 2025, 09:48:54 AMAnd frankly the photos are gorgeous. Even the very distant view of ducks looks like a professional distant view of ducks.
You are too generous, Elgarian!
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 24, 2025, 09:48:54 AMThe photo of the solitary sandpiper makes a lovely play between the bird and its reflection. I am worried, however, about the logical complexities of seeing more than one solitary sandpiper together. I can envisage a situation where one might be driven to say: 'this solitary sandpiper is not a solitary sandpiper!' Imagine the confusion.
I'm off to look at my photos to see if I took one I was contemplating: that of three Solitary Sandpipers. In the meantime, here's a not-very-good photo that I rather like, but why exactly I like it, I'm not sure:
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/pw/AP1GczP5CZ7qIFAwYJnlb6G60-EoaV1sNbbKul0X2tsHTScJHRIVpkusHzuP8z2AT1fc62s2247PyQyNOH-ISMeB-OneI8EUYJWO11yvr9z6PRWB2nU9pg7vcXplinldhCifCMpjItMb0hmGXH9BjjEIVmkYlQ=w1280-h960-s-no?authuser=1)
Quote from: owlice on August 24, 2025, 02:36:29 PMKudos!!!
Slightly modified to be stitched onto a pillow somewhere (where brevity is often necessary):
Sometimes we cannot find the words
To explain the joy of watching birds
Yes, this is what I mean about the tyranny of iambic pentameter. When I started writing that doggerel above, I had a happy mix of line length - some in tetrameter, some in pentameter. But, then (driven by an inner demon), I sought consistency, and started turning the few lines of four feet into five feet, so it was consistent pentameter all the way through.
Then along you come with your snappy tetrametric alternative for the final couplet - a sure-fire hit of course, worthy of Lennon-McCartney - and what can a poor pentametric versifier do, but trundle off into the distance, mumbling 'The curfew tolls the knell of parting day'?
[It's 4 am here. I woke an hour ago and can't get back to sleep. Or maybe I
am asleep!]
Quote from: owlice on August 24, 2025, 02:46:35 PMI'm off to look at my photos to see if I took one I was contemplating: that of three Solitary Sandpipers.
Crikey. Think of the linguistic chaos!
QuoteIn the meantime, here's a not-very-good photo that I rather like, but why exactly I like it, I'm not sure:
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/pw/AP1GczP5CZ7qIFAwYJnlb6G60-EoaV1sNbbKul0X2tsHTScJHRIVpkusHzuP8z2AT1fc62s2247PyQyNOH-ISMeB-OneI8EUYJWO11yvr9z6PRWB2nU9pg7vcXplinldhCifCMpjItMb0hmGXH9BjjEIVmkYlQ=w1280-h960-s-no?authuser=1)
It seems to have a sort of surface texture, as if it were printed as a coloured lithograph, maybe. And there are interesting rhythms in it, like the bird tracks that come across from the left, and down to the right foreground, seeming somehow to link the birds along the way. There's a sort of sombre atmosphere to the whole thing, isn't there?
Quote from: owlice on August 24, 2025, 02:46:35 PMYou are too generous, Elgarian!
But I'm a fan, so it's OK.
Quote from: Elgarian Redux on August 24, 2025, 07:35:14 PMCrikey. Think of the linguistic chaos!
It seems to have a sort of surface texture, as if it were printed as a coloured lithograph, maybe. And there are interesting rhythms in it, like the bird tracks that come across from the left, and down to the right foreground, seeming somehow to link the birds along the way. There's a sort of sombre atmosphere to the whole thing, isn't there?
Where never was heard a discouraging bird....
Quote from: Karl Henning on August 24, 2025, 07:37:50 PMWhere never was heard a discouraging bird....
Just think. This could be the day that changed the whole of GMG into a rhyming forum!
Quote from: owlice on August 24, 2025, 02:46:35 PM(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/pw/AP1GczP5CZ7qIFAwYJnlb6G60-EoaV1sNbbKul0X2tsHTScJHRIVpkusHzuP8z2AT1fc62s2247PyQyNOH-ISMeB-OneI8EUYJWO11yvr9z6PRWB2nU9pg7vcXplinldhCifCMpjItMb0hmGXH9BjjEIVmkYlQ=w1280-h960-s-no?authuser=1)
Just looking at it again, full size, this morning - there's an overall 'graininess' to the mud that pervades everywhere across the image, and it has a kind of unifying effect that feels very similar to the grainy surface produced by a printing process like lithography. That sets the mood of it, and matches the subdued colouring.
Are the birds ringed plovers? (A hopeful guess from the world's worst waderologist.)