November 11, 2005 – happy bird day

In this view of a Townsend's Warbler we see unusual details, such as the "whisker" feathers near its bill and the pattern of the feathers on its back.

A more typical pose.

The killdeer recently arrived in the meadows by the Visitor Center.

Killdeer are not to be confused...

...with the superficially similar Semipalmated Plover.

One of the more easily identified gulls, a Heerman's.

It always strikes me as slightly odd that sea birds like gulls and pelicans spend so much time bathing.

It's just a goldfinch, but he does look rather dapper.

A good look at a Downy Woodpecker.

And a male Western Bluebird enjoys the company of two females.