Birding and Bird Photography

Didn't build one, but it took 4+ years before I got bats this year. I now have a pan up on the post to catch some of the bat guano, it's the best fertilizer to add to the garden.

 

My Mom installed a bird feeder outside her bay window a while back. It's kind of neat all the different birds that have been hitting it up. Anybody got a recommendation on a simpler digital camera in the $300-500 range? She's in her early 70s and not totally unsavvy with tech but usually can get around most devices. I know that's too low for something great but I didn't want to get her a $1000 cam that's too complicated or she wont otherwise use.

Not sure if taking shots through a bay window would matter or not. Would be great for a tripod setup though.

 

What a neat color bird!

 

Green Jay

 

Yellow crowned night heron

 

Went through Peterson's "Western Birds" three times trying to identify, with no success. Finally figured it out.

 

You conclude with scaly-breasted munia/nutmeg manakin?

They got some very small and localized breeding populations up here, but I hear they are more established down there. Damn released/escaped pet birds.

 

Yes, that's what I concluded. I first noticed a group of about a dozen a year ago, and I think they're here to stay. Interesting feeding habits though. Another example of escapees is the House Finch, which was originally only on this side of the Rockies.

 

As I returned from lunch today I watched three crows totally picking on a bald eagle. They were harassing the shit out of it. IMO BE’s are total shit birds, barely above buzzards, carrion eaters. Only thing they “prey” on is fish.

 

They prey on waterfowl too, but I hear ya. Wish the Golden Eagle was our country's bird. They'd kick the shit out of a baldy. Some will prey on small deer (on cliffs, but still). I've handled both, and the golden was so much stronger and bigger.

 

Goldens are total bad asses!! I love to see them at the raptor rescue center at Auburn. Plus when they fly the birds before kick off is a truly special feeling.

 

Saw some activity around my new houses today and did some investigation this afternoon. Someone is taking up residence.

 

Sheesh... nothing like getting personal with a bird

 

I’m the landlord, it’s my right....

 

Heron at the local pond…

 

I think our northern Canadian BC friends nicked name BE’s right ….”Flying Rats” … lol

I love GE’s, but I find it hard to get close to them, very aloof in my travels. (handled both..?) Are you a falconer?

most my GE pics are from afar, and the heat waves make em blurry

But don’t get me wrong flying rat or not the shear strength and beauty of raptors has a soft spot in my heart!

At times I zoom in to the eyes in the pic’s and I feel I was getting stared at… or sometimes wonder if it’s looking at its reflection in the lens….? Lol