Tuesday, July 27, 2010

Some better Scarlet Tanager pictures





Taken yesterday, 7/26 in the afternoon.

Saturday, July 24, 2010

Scarlet Tanagers




Although more scarce and harder to photograph, these are also gorgeous birds. They spend most of their time high in the tree canopy and are very nervous. I have never be able to get a clear shot of one; but have several where I tried to focus upwards through the branches. Pictured are a late summer male and female.

Monday, July 12, 2010

Summer Tanagers in Missouri





These beautiful birds are spring and summer visitors across the southern part of the state. The are particularly common in Ozark County and I counted 5 pairs with the River of Life Farm property in June 2009. At first appearing to be a Northern Cardinal; and then appearing to be a more exotic red color, they need a close look to differentiate. They are beautiful birds (about cardinal sized); a little smaller.

They migrate each April from South American to next here. They nest high in hardwood trees and build a nest of grass. The first nest is fledged in June.

I took these pictures in St. louis county on Sunday 7/11/10 with a Canon 7D. Shown are 2 male and 2 female Summer Tanagers.

Sunday, July 11, 2010

Eastern Wood Peewee in the summer shade



This Wood Peewee was catching insects in the shade of some hickory trees Saturday.

Tuesday, July 6, 2010

Award Winning Bluebird Photo


Just won the award: click to enlarge.

Natures Prime - Hall of Fame Award

Hot Days -- Ozark Birds bathing






Days are hot and long in July. Creeks are pretty dry except after a downpour. Where songbirds can find a creek with moving waters; they can be found bathing and preening feathers.