Fledglings

About this time of year fledgling birds are noisily following around their parents asking for food. They are pretty recognizable not only from the noises they make but also by behavior. You will often see them rapidly flapping their little stubby wings, appearing to be throwing a toddler like bird fit (the baby stage is the constant crying for food when sitting in their nest). The other day I happened to be under a tree as a foraging group of these birds came through above me. I was surprised to see more than the usual chickadees, titmice and cardinals. A young Red-Bellied Woodpecker was even taking part in the action! Along with the other birds also expressing themselves verbally in their usual ways, it created quite a concert. Feeding Time For Fledglings at Bella Vista Creek by Gideon McClure Earlier that morning I was also able to capture a usually quiet Summer Tanager vocalizing from the treetops. Summer Tanager at Bella Vista Creek by Gideon McClure Though the highlights of Spring migration are behind us, each part of the birding year is filled with some purpose.

The Warblers are Back

I have been out of town the past two week-ends. Not a great time as Spring migration really picks up in the transition from April to May. I have tried to get out to Bella Vista creek a few times for brief forays but had little luck with finding many migratory Warblers. I found a Grey Catbird, some Vireos, and one or two Yellow Warblers, but not much else. I was a little skeptical and worried that last year may have been a fluke. Today, however, I ran out quickly after a brief Mother's Day breakfast. In just the hour I was out there I found a Magnolia, Yellow, Wilson's, and Chestnut-sided Warblers. These little guys were busy gathering treat with the usual Vireos and Chickadees and Titmice. Looks like we might officially have ourselves a little "hotspot". I'm glad there is a little patch for them to refill so close to the house on their way North. Now let's make sure we protect it for them!

Below is a sound clip of a Golden-cheeked Warbler found on the creek last month. You will hear it twice. This is the second year I have found this bird in the same location (even the same set of trees. This is great news as the species is endangered.