"birding" fun - Page 144

**whulsey** · #**1431** 06-02-2021, 01:32 PM

Thanks for the comments. When I first moved to AZ thought they were California quail until I noticed the marking differences. Here's another shot of the Gambel and a California quail at Oro de Montana Park in the Morro Bay area.

**Kevin WS** · #**1432** 06-03-2021, 05:12 AM

Thank you for these Wayne.

I am always fascinated by the fact that Quail and the so-called "Game Birds" generally have some sort of flashy marking. Obvious ly for breeding, but nevertheless interesting that this feature is so common among game birds. Along of course with their contradictory camouflage or dull colouring!

**birder** · #**1433** 06-27-2021, 08:53 AM

The seasons seem to race by as they do, and this year we have had quite a bit of bird action in the yard and feeders. Crossbills have been constantly on the feeder these last few weeks and they can eat alot of seeds! A favorite of mine, so has been nice to see them. They are on the feeder as I type. The rarity of the year showed up the eastern bird Rose Breasted Grosbeak of all things, I was astonished and so lucky to have seen and take photos of him, even though was only here for a day or so, I think it may be a local or even state record. I took some pictures of the Black Headed ones we have normally, and they are very very closely related birds. Amazing to get a surprise like that one. The Swallows are mostly flying now, we have had fledgling Song Sparrows, Juncoes, Towhees, Siskins, Cassins and House finches, the swallows, Robins around. The sun reaches the yard late in the day well so most of the feeder pictures were in the day.

**Kevin WS** · #**1434** 06-27-2021, 08:59 AM

Very nice Glen. You are getting some nice pictures now!

I like the butterfly as well!

**birder** · #**1435** 06-27-2021, 10:25 AM

Thank you Kevin! The butterfly is a Sarah Orange tip, I have pretty good luck using my longer lens with those they are still clear often and I don’t scare the bug off..

**Michael Mash** · #**1436** 06-27-2021, 10:34 AM

Nice photos Glen.
I have never seen a Crossbill before.
We see the Rose Breasted Grosbeak here from time to time.
And I have never seen the Sarah Orange Tip butterfly.
So you have introduced this easterner to two new species today.
Mike

**whulsey** · #**1437** 06-27-2021, 11:16 AM

Glen, great photos.

**SCEtoAUX** · #**1438** 06-27-2021, 02:18 PM

Nice photos. I like how different bird species approach the feeders in different ways. Alway entertaining.

**rmks2000** · #**1439** 07-01-2021, 10:01 AM

Robin Red Breast Question:

I have a bird in my yard that has a Robin shape and size and hops like a Robin. However it does not have a red breast. In stead it is white and speckled with grey spots. Any thoughts on what it is? There is another Robin with a white breast and tinges of red on the side edges (visible when it flaps its wings), which I am thinking may be a female. All other Robins in the yard seem to be what one would expect.

I also have a bird that is like a Grackle in shape, size and smoothness but overall medium gray in color. Any help is appreciated on identifying either bird.

**birder** · #**1440** 07-01-2021, 11:55 AM

Maybe a young Robin from this year it sounds like, and a gray catbird? what part of the country do you live?