Monday, May 09, 2011

White-eyed Vireo, et alia

From what I can gather from the Vermont bird list maintained by the records committee, the White-eyed Vireo has been recorded in Vermont often enough so that it does not need a rare bird report to be filed. Even so, most Vermont birders have not seen the bird within the state's borders. One is currently hanging out in the alders of an old beaver pond near by home, first found by a neighbor. The vireo's distinctive song finally led to some decent photos this morning. I can only hope that he successfully attracts a mate, but since he is well north of the usual range for this species, his chances of breeding may not be very good. As healthy and enthusiastic as he appears, I can only wish him good luck.

White-eyed Vireo

White-eyed Vireo
In Vermont, winter is a constant present. The last patch of snow disappeared from behind the barn on April 26. Nine days later, I began preparing for next winter by stacking the first delivery of fire wood. But at least the task was attended by bird song, and all the habitats are welcoming the return of the migrants. Just a few images of the past couple of days.
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Rose-breasted Grosbeak

Northern Flicker

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

Hermit Thrush

5 comments:

Wilma said...

snap on the rose-breasted gross beak; had 2 males at the feeder yesterday. Beautiful flicker shot.

cheers,
Wilma

Hilke Breder said...

Marvelous images of the White-eyed vireo, particularly the first one showing the yellow spectacles. I listened to the songs and calls on Sibley Birds on my iPod - it would be a song hard for me to remember, but then your ear is far better than mine.

Debbie Miller @HooootOwl said...

Especially love the White-eyed Vireo!

FAB said...

Well Chris you captured the distinctive feature of the Vireo far better than any ID guide I have on the bookshelf.

Kay Baughman said...

Your photos are almost as good as watching the birds! I love your blog for the really lifelike photographs.

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