The Next Generation

For the last few weeks, Blue Jays have been "uncharacteristically" quiet as they come to the feeders, gather seeds, and leave. They have been nest building, incubating, and feeding nestlings. They are intelligent corvids, and they know not to draw attention to themselves during this vulnerable time. I have been waiting for the jolly raucousness to return, along with fledglings demanding to be fed. That happened this morning, as young swarmed through the trees, begging loudly and and chasing after parents when they did not get their way immediately ...

Fledgling Blue Jay begs for food

 The first fledgling Evening Grosbeak was fed in our backyard on June 9 ...

Evening Grosbeak - juvenile

... since that day, the young have been brought around for food and self-feeding instruction on a regular basis ...

"Hey Dad, is this where I get the food?"

Additional members of the Next Generation which we have helped to raise include ...

Downy Woodpecker ...

Mrs. Downy (the frazzled one in the back) feeds her daughter

Mr. Downy feeds his son

Hairy Woodpecker ...

Hairy Woodpecker - juvenile male

Red-bellied Woodpecker ...

A "shy" Red-bellied Woodpecker - he/she would not look at the camera

Common Grackle ...

Fledgling Common Grackle - one of many!

... and finally ... the Cedar Waxwings are getting down to the business of the season. This pair copulated on the branch while I went for my camera. When I finally focused on them, they had happy smiles, then flew off.

Cedar Waxwings

Good birding!!