A closer look at the rather large bill of this wayward seed eater.
A brief video of it on several different perches around the yard and at the feeder.
Time spent at the platform feeder is not without its hazards as you can see here with a Mourning Dove giving the Dickcissel a sharp bite as it successfully muscles in.
This is nothing out of the ordinary with birds continually jostling for their place at the feeder. The Dickcissel was soon back at the feeder after spending a bit of time watching from nearby.
Before joining back in....
and nearly getting lost in the sea of House Sparrows.
Another visitor, a hatch year Northern Cardinal was molting fairly heavily around its head. That's its ear hole just below its eye, something we rarely see.
With a closer look below. For those interested, an image showing a replica of a Cardinals skull created by Bone Clones can be seen at: http://www.boneclones.com/images/bc-167-lg.jpg
Hi Phil. Had never heard of a Dickcissel before your post. I particularly like your video which really shows the character and markings of the bird so well! The mobility of the head plumage which totally alters its appearance is remarkable!
ReplyDeleteAny sign of your owls returning yet? We're seeing the first signs of Autumn (Fall) over here already.
Hi Richard, Thanks for your positive comments on the Dickcissel post. I wish it had stuck around the yard a bit longer. Just back from a week in Arizona, loads of birds and awesome scenery! We are still a month or so from the 1st reliable Owl sightings, the leaves on the trees keep them from utilizing the holes until late October/early November. Thanks for your note. Enjoy,
ReplyDeletePhil