I took a walk along the river this afternoon, with my cousin Tracy, and I had the opportunity to watch some birds all along the way. Two things quickly became apparent. For one thing trees get in the way. I’m no longer used to looking at birds in trees. In fact I haven’t seen a real live tree in four years. I forgot just how tough it can be to make out field marks while looking at the belly of a bird way up at the top of a tree.
The other thing that was evident was, I’m really rusty when it comes to identifying southern birds. I only brought my European Field guide with me, and I really could use my Peterson’s. Some birds were very easy, Mourning Doves, Crows, Red-winged Blackbirds, Ring-billed Gulls, Robins, Canada Geese and whatnot. But some.. sheesh. I think that the diving duck I saw is a Golden-eye. It’s familiar, I just can’t remember what it was. And that warbler? I have no idea. Where are the Lapland Longspurs when you need to show off your identification skills.
It was great fun, watching the Red-winged Blackbirds sing and display, the Chickadees opening up seeds from a feeder, the Purple Finch singing. Spring is here. Life springs eternal.
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sounds like you’re having a grand time my friend.. and it really must seem odd to view trees after all this time. Take alot of notes and I bet you’ll be able to id your sightings once you have other field guides to cross-check. (And I *know* you have them.. even if you are in denial) 😉
have a fun trip and enjoy each bird.. and tree 🙂