Chestnut-sided Warbler Singing
Frost in the morning – sunny cheer by lunchtime. It’s spring in Chautauqua County! This Chestnut-sided Warbler seemed excited about it all…
Read MoreYellow-throated Vireo
The Yellow-throated Vireo (Vireo flavifrons) is one of those species I never seem to spot frequently, and thus I end up knowing little about them. They are birds of the deciduous forest of eastern North America, preferring the edge. This may be along a roadway or a trail, the latter allowing for some good views in my experience, but they also enjoy staying at mid to high levels. A bird in the canopy is much more difficult to learn about than one that hangs out down here with us. I spotted this Yellow-throated Vireo several days ago at a migratory stopover site for many passerine species. It...
Read MoreCape May Warbler
This male Cape May Warbler (Setophaga tigrina) is hidden in the very tops of this oak tree, its bright and vibrant yellow, orange and brown shades somehow camouflaged in the growing leaves and glowing sunlight. The easiest way to “spot” this bird was to hear its voice, but even the song of the species is a high-pitched, thin and quick little tune. These record photos are actually past record shots of a bird that I heard moments after waking up, with it in the always helpful oak outside my window. Being half awake I was not fully processing what I was hearing among a chorus of...
Read MoreBlue-gray Gnatcatcher
This Blue-gray Gnatcatcher was actively feeding at a migratory stopover site, enjoying a bounty of April insects on its way to the north. These little gals and guys are so flashy for such a tiny creature, showing that bright white eye ring and the white edges of their tail to help get that food moving into their target range. I have always had an affection for the species and their wheezing ways, with their call sounding so nasal and almost asthmatic, an affliction I share in the spring. Watch for them at any time at this part of the year – literally – as the unique species is at...
Read MoreSong Sparrows Singing
Once again, I ask you…why do they call these birds Song Sparrows? Oh, whoops! Forget I asked. Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
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