Migration seems to be delayed by 5-10 days in our area but has been steady and extremely enjoyable. This past week we have had more new year birds for the Callaway Nature Preserve.
One of the highlights was a group of Wilson’s Warblers, a little yellow warbler with a neat black cap that looks like slicked back hair.
Wilson’s Warbler – taken at a forest preserve, not our backyard
Note: Updated photo because originally posted the same one as the other day 🙂
The other major highlight was a Black-throated Blue Warbler that hung around all day Wednesday.
Other notable birds included: Chestnut-sided and Magnolia Warblers, Ovenbird, Swainson’s and Gray-cheeked Thrushes, and a lot of activity with the local nesters: Downy Woodpecker, Gray Catbird, House Wren, and Northern Cardinal.
Water-logged Ovenbird
Wilson’s warbler is so CUTE!
Seems like the end of April we were ahead of schedule but with that noreaster we had the birds are behind!
They are so cute! I have go;d finches nesting in my hedge and I fear the worst with all those cats about
oooops, with go;d I meant gold
Im in love with warblers! Great find birdfreak team! I really love the top photo!
Lana – They are adorable!!
Mon@rch – The weather has been screwy in N. IL as well!
Middleditch – Cats are a major problem but luckily goldfinches are pretty resilient and common
Birdman Jon – Thanks much! Warblers are what make spring great (and make it hard to go to work 🙂