H.J. Ruiz – Avian101

I’ve been busy, only now with photography, not with the backyard work. I’ve noticed a whole bunch of fledglings coming to get seeds at the feeders, seems like there’s a second wave of new birds. There are lots of birds to be fed now.

I’m glad that I have the chance to not only see the but to photograph them.

New Notes: A couple of days ago I witnessed a big fight between two big Northern Mockingbirds over a female. I couldn’t believe the ferocity of this fight, there was a moment when they clinched each other and rolled from my umbrella table to the floor of the deck and wouldn’t let go, I went outside and they pulled apart but the chase continued for a long while, it was like a dog fight of war planes!.

Next I’m posting samples of the new fledglings:

Click on the images to see enlargements

Red-winged Blackbird – (F)

Carolina Chickadee

Song Sparrow

Mourning Dove

Northern Cardinal (M)

Northern Cardinal (F)

Eastern Towhee (F)

Text and photographs are © H.J. Ruiz – Avian 101

This week I’ve been working very hard manicuring my lawn, shrubs, hedges, plants and backyard extension. But then when I finished I took some time shooting pictures. I’m displaying some of them on today’s post. The weather is on the hot side and has been tough to work outdoors. But I had to do it. I always like my hose to be looking good.

One thing I observed was that I saw a large variety of birds coming to my feeders. My wife saw a Hawk being chased by two Northern Mockingbirds and then she told me I lost a chance for a great picture.

My list of birds I saw:

• Northern Cardinal, M & F
• Mourning Dove
• Red-winged Blackbird, M & F
• Brown-headed Cowbird, M & F
• Song Sparrow
• Tufted Titmouse
• Northern Mockingbird
• Common Grackle, M & F
• Carolina Chickadee
• Field Sparrow
• Eastern Towhee, M & F
• Ruby Throated Hummingbird
• Cooper’s Hawk
• European Starling

Northern Cardinal (M)

Red-winged Blackbird – Both (F)

Red-winged Blackbird (F) (I)

Red-winged Blackbird (M)

Blue Jay

Eastern Towhee (M)

Click on images to see enlargements

Text and photographs © H.J. Ruiz – Avian 101