Who is pecking in my feeder?

February 23, 2009 7:52 PM

I set up a cam on my feeder in GA. It saves a pic every few minutes, and when I can, I post the interesting ones here so my folks back in MA can check them out. (It's a long winter for them.) I'm not exactly sure what this one is. I was guessing a female red-winged blackbird, but it doesn't match exactly to sample pics I find online and nothing in my field guide looks like a closer match. Can someone lend me their expertise? Thanks! - Tom
posted by thinds66 to Science & Nature (6 answers total)

I think you're right, especially if it was streaked on the front.

Passerines aren't my strong suit, but I've seen a lot of female redwings!

Stewriffic will know.
posted by rtha at 8:16 PM on February 23, 2009

Yes, female red-winged blackbird. Compare to this photo.
posted by hydrophonic at 9:12 PM on February 23, 2009

Response by poster: Thank you!
posted by thinds66 at 10:07 PM on February 23, 2009

Female Red Wings are a tough call on the fly when they're alone at a feeder because they are unexpected and can resemble sparrows. You wouldn't be alone in pausing before making a call. Size, deep striping on the chest, greater covert bar, and large beak are good field marks. Photos really help. Nice pix.
posted by birdwatcher at 3:36 AM on February 24, 2009

Yup.
posted by Stewriffic at 6:13 AM on February 24, 2009

Great idea btw. I want one (bird cam that is).
posted by nax at 6:23 AM on February 24, 2009