During the past few weeks, I have had the opportunity to observe and photograph Field Sparrows eating the small seed of a common weed at THE FIELD site. These common birds in the area manage to find their needed food here during the winter months. For a complete description and life cycle of these sparrows, check out this link. These birds are plentiful in eastern NC. There are a few American Indian myths about them. One is that they are a friend of the common man, and they embody a helping spirit that negotiates between heaven and earth. They can find the rain when it is lost. They are a symbol of hard work. All of the pictures below were taken over a period of two weeks. See pics below
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It is not quite mid-January here in eastern North Carolina, and one would think, a long way from nesting season for our birds. But, a couple of days ago, at The Field site, I was able to observe and photograph what appeared to be early exploration and competition for an old woodpecker cavity in a dead Sweetgum tree. There were three competitors involved, including several Bluebirds, a Downy Woodpecker, and a Red-bellied Woodpecker. The Gum tree was located in the center of a shallow backwater pond that extended from a local creek. The dead tree was only about 40 feet tall, with about a third of the top having broken off. The nest cavity was about 3 feet below the stump top. I had been watching Hooded Mergansers in the pond when I first noticed commotion around the tree by several Bluebirds. After awhile, the Red-bellied Woodpecker appeared and ran the Bluebirds off. After this bird left, a Downy Woodpecker showed up and did his exploration. This went on for a couple of hours, with alternating visits by the three species. All these birds usually build their nests in late March or early April, so I assume they were just checking out this cavity for future possibilities. The location at about 40 feet up in a tree surrounded by water would appear to offer some protection from predators. I will certainly check in April to see who wins the competition!! I enjoyed the acrobatic antics of the birds who performed for some great photographs! Enjoy below! SEE GALLERY BELOW. CLICK ON ANY PIC TO ENLARGE. USE SIDE ARROWS TO MOVE BACK AND FORTH. SCROLL DOWN FOR OTHER RECENT POSTS, OR CLICK ON ARCHIVES AT THE RIGHT FOR PREVIOUS POSTS. |
Jerry Lotterhos is a retired professor who resides in Greenville, N.C.
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