Bird Discussion

[zerasaw]

Yeah, Sibley is the best for shorebirds and the like where various plumages are messy, but for warblers and things that might fly away while you're looking in your guide, Kaufman is perhaps a little better. Though generally, Sibley is more detailed. If you REALLY want to get into birding to the point where you can get really specific about birds, I highly recommend Pete Dunne's "Essential Field Guide Companion" as well as Sibley's "Guide to Bird Life and Behaviour". Also, Peter Pyle's no-color sketch guide is highly recommended for plumages and subspecies.

[PacificGoldenPlover]

Just curious zerasaw, where did you see a Vesper Sparrow. That's more of a western species.

I have to say, you Easterners have it tough birdwatching. I developed severe warbler neck while in Ohio.

[zerasaw]

The Vesper Sparrow was in Crawford County, Michigan, where it may breed (they are somewhat rarer in the east than in the west). I was looking for a Kirtland's Warbler; I heard the call but was not able to confirm it. Also on that day I managed to get a very short glimpse at a Prairie Warbler. The habitat, which is a lot, in fact like the chaparral of California, is what allows the Vesper to breed there.

And yes, in Ohio, we have trees. Tall trees. With foliage. That gives you very frequent warbler's neck. But...all kinds of warblers and vireos.

[hexagonaria]

oh, we have piping plovers nearby our high school football field

I saw a Tufted Titmouse today and I thought, "Wow, I should tell that person whose username is tuftedtitmouse about this!"
Hope you don't think that's creepy

[tuftedtitmouse12]

oh, we have piping plovers nearby our high school football field

I saw a Tufted Titmouse today and I thought, "Wow, I should tell that person whose username is tuftedtitmouse about this!"
Hope you don't think that's creepy

Nah, I'm cool with that

[zerasaw]

Anyone at Midwest Birding Symposium right now? Can't make it because of conflicts...