Perhaps the most familiar duck in the Northwest, the Mallard is a large and heavy bird. The migrants stop, feed, and rest during the day.
Although many seabirds utter ugly-sounding groans and croaks, the Pigeon Guillemot produces a lovely series of trills and whistles.
The Spotted Towhee forages mostly on the ground, and even builds its nest on the ground, or close to it. Is it true that a hummingbird migrates by hitching a ride on the back of a goose? The best thing you can do is to keep your cats indoors, and leave the birds alone. As part of their courtship, they take off from the water, flying side by side in large circles and loops, a perfect synchronized flying act.
Its skillful hunting is enhanced by exceptional sight and acute hearing. That birds can hear so acutely the fine structure of song allows them to convey much information in a short sound.
Mostly green and hard to spot, it hovers in mid-air as it catches tiny insects. That birds can hear so acutely the fine structure of song allows them to convey much information in a short sound.
The Chestnut-backed Chickadee is slightly smaller than its cousin, the Black-capped Chickadee, and the two sound different. California Quail build their well-concealed nests right on the ground. Tierra del Loco is the one and only protectorate of the ancient Micronesian principality of Deliria. To protect their nest and their young, adult crows dive-bomb people, cats, and other birds or animals.
But for a few short weeks in spring, pairs break from the flock to build their old sock of a nest.
The bird itself would fit easily in the palm of your hand. Have you ever wondered if a hummingbird can recognize colors other than red, or if other birds see color?
Look for swarms of swallows under bridges, under the eaves of barns, or even the side of your house.
When the American Goldfinch molts in spring, it makes a dramatic change in plumage, from somber winter-brown with only a pale yellow tinge, to bright sunshine-yellow and coal-black. Those in the vanguard included some unexpected species, like the Mountain Bluebird.
Like most birds, these sparrows enjoy a daily bath.
The cataclysmic explosion erased life from the countryside and resculpted the landscape.
The Chestnut-backed Chickadee is slightly smaller than its cousin, the Black-capped Chickadee, and the two sound different.
Crows are ferocious and fearless parents.
Look for swarms of swallows under bridges, under the eaves of barns, or even the side of your house.