Sunday, October 29, 2006

Migration Over?

Well, it does look like it. The number of birds banded per day has dropped dramatically. The Ruby-crowned Kinglets are increasing, though, as represented by this male showing his bright ruby crown.

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

Also in good numbers are the House Wrens. Hearing them everyday.

House Wren

Our newest returning species was this nice Yellow-bellied Sapsucker. The previous week, this or a similar bird flew in to search for food right by the banding table. This bird was caught in a net not far from the table.

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

As I was taking pictures for the banding website, I noticed a slight ring of darker feathers across the breast of the bird. The most striking part about it was that the feathers were not black but a black/blue with an iridescence.

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

Next week I am off to round up some sparrows on the Kissimmee Prairie! With any luck.

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