Young Hawk Watching The River

photograph of a young hawk perched in a tree on the Rappahannock River in Virginia

This young hawk, perched high above the Rappahannock River was carefully watching everything going on below it.

I’ve had trouble identifying this hawk. I believe it’s a juvenile Red-Shouldered Hawk but if anybody knows differently I would appreciate your thoughts.

Carolina Chickadee, II

photograph of a Carolina Chickadee on a branch

This Carolina Chickadee hopped around on this branch and never sat still for long.  Shortly after I took this picture two younger Carolina Chickadees appeared.  They must have been recently fledged and following mom (or dad) around to learn the ways of the world.

Weighing in at only 0.3 – 0.4 ounces (8 – 12 grams), the tiny Carolina Chickadees always inspire me.  How can something so small endure everything nature throws at it?  From snowy winters to droughts and heat waves, these little birds somehow endure it all.

Please click on the image above to see a larger copy of it.

 

 

American Goldfinch, female

photograph of a female American Goldfinch on a branch

During the breeding season the American Goldfinch has beautiful, bright yellow plumage that turns to a sort of olive green in the fall.  This female, decked out in her summer plumage, looks curious about something.  The males are similarly colored but sport a prominent black cap as part of their breeding plumage.

 

Northern Cardinal, 4

photograph of a male Northern Cardinal

Virginia’s state bird can be difficult to photograph. The Northern Cardinal normally keeps at a safe distance from people so it’s hard to get really close to them.  The male’s brilliant red color can also make exposure and even focus difficult at times.  I captured this one in open shade and that seems to have resolved the color issues.

Supper Time!

photograph of a female Eastern Bluebird feeding an juvenile Eastern Bluebird

The first few years I had a bluebird box in the yard it remained empty.  Then, just as I was thinking of taking it down, a pair of Eastern Bluebirds nested in it.  Since then we’ve had bluebirds nest in the box every year, producing multiple broods.  The female pictured here is feeding one of the juveniles from the first brood of this season.  If the past is any indication we should get at least another two broods this summer.

Red Bellied Woodpecker

Photograph of a Red Bellied Woodpecker in a tree

People often assume this bird is a Red Headed Woodpecker.  The confusion is understandable as the Red Bellied Woodpecker’s head is red on the top and back.  By comparison the Red Headed Woodpecker’s head is red on the top, back, sides, and front.  If you happen to catch a glimpse of this bird’s stomach you’ll see the red patch for which it is named.

Junco In The Snow

photograph of a Junco on a snowy branch

A Junco rests on a snowy branch while out foraging in the snow.  How such a small creature survives the winter never ceases to amaze me.  Does it wake on such a morning wishing it could sleep a little longer, rationalizing that later the snow will melt and its burdens will be just a little lighter?