Monday, April 27, 2009

My Weekly Bird ABC

Let me begin by explaining the naming of the birds.
I have chosen to use the names as they are given in the field guides.
All the guides use the same names so it is consistent.
Having said all that,let's take a look at the 'N' birds.
The Northern Shoveler could possibly be mistaken for a Mallard.
One look at the huge flat bill and the name makes sense. A Northern Flicker up close and personal. This is a female,it does not have the red mustache.
The above bird is a male.He has been busy excavating a hole.
This bird needs no explanation.
A Northern Cardinal,in all his beauty.
This picture was taken some 15 years ago.
We feel so fortunate to have seen and photographed this bird.
All of the above pictures were taken by Jake
A Northern Harrier,showing his white rump clearly.
Here is another view,showing the Northern Harrier from the bottom.
These birds are usually seen hunting over grassy fields.
Under just the right conditions they will hover in place for several minutes.
In my opinion the Northern Pintail is one of the most regal looking ducks around.
I love their coloration and markings.
Here a Northern Pintail coming in for a landing.
This picture shows it's long pointed tail which gives it it's name.
The last bird for today is one which is somewhat rare in our area.
The Northern Shrike is not seen every year,so I feel lucky to have these pictures.
Here we see the Northern Shrike hovering,looking for small rodents on which to prey.
This bird has the unique habit of spearing it's prey on a fence wire,
thus saving it for later.
The last 6 pictures were taken by Ruth
God's laughter can be heard in the song of birds.

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