Warm-season insectivores leave the region in October as the supply of insects and spiders diminishes. Many head for the southern USA, Mexico, or Central America. Three of these soon-to-be departed species were seen on a walk in yesterday’s sunshine.
A Savannah Sparrow flies to another perch, but soon will fly far to the south.
Another Savannah Sparrow hunts a diminishing supply of insects from a branch.
A Chipping Sparrow hunts near the ground.
My favourite shot is of a female Common Yellowthroat. She, too, will fly south soon.
Thanks, I heard so many Savannahs, paddling down the Red Deer River from the badlands to the Sask border in June, but while hearing/knowing their presence, am terrible at seeing/identifying those sparrows, other than white crowned, song.
I’ve another observation and question on a growing, not flying subject, although am wondering if there’s a connection between last year’s abundance of Rowan berries which visiting birds couldn’t begin to eat thoroughly as usual years, and the dearth of berries this year, since so many berries from last year still hang on the trees? I’d be interested in your take on this.
Karen, it is my scanty understanding that the irruptive birds that sometimes visit are driven more by a mismatch of food in the north, than by supplies here in the south.
Lovely photos of these precious little birds.
Bonnie wee birds, Beautifully filmed. Thank you