Scarlet tanager is the one we see lots in our yard, sometimes right out the studio window. We get gobs of young scarlets blowing through in late summer and fall. Nearly all are in dull plumage, but they are beautiful nonetheless, and it's such fun to see them sport and play.
And then this character appeared. Now, when you see dozens of scarlet tanagers, the little things that are different about this bird jump out at you. First, it's larger. A different green, tinged orange. Longer wings, longer tail...less contrast between wing and body than a scarlet shows. Tail's not blackish like a scarlet's, either. It's all adding up to...just missing one part...
Ah! the Jimmy Durante nose! It's a juvenile summer tanager!
Well, look at you, looking at me!! You're makin' my day here, darling. Keep it up.
Umm.. would you consider a quick dip, getting yourself on the Spa List of species who've bathed or drunk at my special bird bath?
I'll think about it. After all, that's what brought me in, that googurling water.
That goldfinch certainly seems to be enjoying himself. Doesn't seem afraid of the bubbler, either.
And neither is the titmouse...
Don't mind if I do.
Dingdingdingdingding!! #71 for the Spa List!! Summer tanager, August 1, 2012.
What are we, chopped liver? Anyone have a guess on the brown bird in the middle? Just a little quiz. You knew there'd be a quiz.
Sunday, August 26, 2012
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