I saw some great photos by Fr Charlie and Dave from Boyce Thompson Arboretum, so I decided to go out there. Dave came also. We left early, and got there at about 7 am (50 minute drive).
It was a beautiful day at BTA. The weather was great, with a high of 75, and recent rains cleared the air. The birds were fantastic, with migration in full swing, and blooming plants providing food. For me, the highlight was the Yellow-breasted Chat. They’re not that uncommon, but I’ve had trouble photographing them in the past. I was also hoping to see the Hooded Oriole, and had success. When we first walked in we saw one in the Bottle Brush tree, and we saw one again as we were walking out. I tried to get a good profile picture showing the white wing bars, but didn’t get that.
We walked the High Trail, which was the first time for me. From this perspective we could look across Queen Creek and see the Silk Oak trees, which were in bloom with beautiful yellow/orange flowers. They attracted a lot of birds, but were too far away for good pictures. I included some because I liked the contrast of the flowers with the birds.
When we were driving into the parking lot we saw a flock of about 12 Lazuli Buntings. We stopped for some pictures, and also saw the Lazuli in the park.
I also included a photo from our front yard of a Curve-billed Thrasher with a deformed bill. I think this deformity is rare, but I found a document online from 1991 describing a similar case. In that case, they said the bird died of starvation, being unable to eat with the deformity.
There are more pictures in the post than usual, but I guess it’s because it was such a great day at BTA!
6 Comments
Beautiful pics-you could sprinkle the roses with water if the dew is dried up??
Thanks. I thought the dewdrops on roses (that would make a good song title 🙂 ) made a nice effect. I don’t know if I could replicate it by hand. Probably, but it may be difficult to duplicate natures job.
Dad- this is an awesome post- killer variety of birds and nice showing of spring color
Thanks, Aaron.
Fantastic yellow theme. Love these.
I do wish Dave would have had a yellow hat or something.
You do great work!
Thanks, Jill. I hadn’t noticed, but you’re right, there is a yellow theme.