Saturday, May 29, 2010

Magic Hedge Late May

Black-billed Cuckoo. These birds occasionally lay their eggs in the nests of other birds - called brood parasitism. This happens more often with their European cousins. They eat big spiny caterpillars and often beat them on a branch to try and remove the spines. Many of these spines will lodge into their stomach so will periodically shed their stomach lining to remove them.

My first Scarlet Tanager :)

Sunday, May 2, 2010

Magic Hedge Early May

American Robin

White-throated Sparrows have a very commonly heard song in winter and early spring. "Oh sweet Canada"


House Sparrows, along with Rock Doves (pigeons) and European Starlings, are one of the most common bird in N. America. They were introduced into this country from Europe in the mid-19th century and thrive in areas with man-made structures like this one for nesting. Very agressive birds, they are known to evict Eastern Bluebirds, Purple Martins, and Tree Swallows from their homes.