Today was busy with a morning trip to Olympia KGY Point in an unsuccessful search for a Franklin's Gull and an afternoon trip to Seattle Union Bay Natural Area/Montlake Fill. There were many good birds to choose from such as the Least Sandpiper, Great Blue Heron, Pigeon Guillemot, Osprey, Killdeer, or Caspian Tern. I chose the Bushtit because it is such a delight every time I see a flock frenetically moving through the trees.
The bushtit (Psaltriparus minimus) is a small, social songbird found primarily in the western United States and parts of Mexico. Measuring about 4.5 inches in length, bushtits have soft, grayish-brown plumage and are easily distinguished by their long tails and, in females, pale yellow or white eyes. Known for their highly social behavior, these birds form flocks of up to 40 individuals and are often seen flitting about in trees and shrubs, foraging for insects and small invertebrates. They build distinctive hanging nests made from spider silk, moss, and plant fibers. Adaptable to various habitats including woodlands, scrublands, and urban areas, bushtits are not considered threatened and remain a lively and charming presence in their environments.
Another highlight of the day was in using my Audobon Field Guide to the Pacific Northwest to identify a Common Whitetail Dragonfly:
and a Common Green Darner Dragonfly (at least I think that is what it is):
Later, I hope to do a short hike at Snoqualmie Falls. Good use of a Friday.
Comments