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Islands in the Sun

10,000 Birds

When we look at the breeding birds, they are all Palaearctic, either mainland species or endemics that evolved from mainland species. Had this been the case we would expect the breeding birds of these islands to be dominated by trans-Saharan migrants. In fact, the breeding birds are overwhelmingly dominated by pre-Saharan migrants.

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The Changing Fortunes of Europe’s Vultures – Part 1

10,000 Birds

Griffon Vultures have a long breeding season. Isn’t it a bit late to breed? Why bother with such a risky journey if you aren’t going to breed? We can speculate that it’s part of the learning curve to adulthood or it may simply be that the non-breeding areas in Africa become inhospitable for them at this time of the year.

Africa 240
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Marsh Sandpipers

10,000 Birds

The Marsh Sandpipers are currently feeding up ready to migrate and breed in the Northern hemisphere. Marsh Sandpiper There are also many Sharp-tailed Sandpipers feeding in the area and they are also feeding up ready to go North and breed. Below you can see a photo for both species for a size comparison.

Australia 130
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Swarovski Skills Camp, or men and their toys

10,000 Birds

In comparison with ELs, EL 10s and NL 12s have the same field of view, as well as EL 8s and NL 10s. The Lake Neusiedl National Park is Europe’s westernmost steppe lake and an important breeding and wintering area, as well as a migratory stopover site. It comes as no surprise that more than 350 bird species have been recorded here.

Austria 296
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Terns of North America: A Photographic Guide–A Book Review

10,000 Birds

Terns of North America covers 19 species of terns, noddies, and skimmers that breed and are regular vagrants in the United States and Canada (like many books titled “North America” the geographical coverage stops at the northern end of the Mexico border). It’s also a beautiful book to look through.

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Pied Oystercatcher chick-cautiously optimistic

10,000 Birds

The juvenile Pied Oystercatcher gives you a glimpse into its development when it stretches a wing out and when it stands close to its parents for size comparison. It will remain with its parents for a few more months and then join a non-breeding flock either to the south or north of Gantheaume Point.

Eggs 165
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Calliope and Anna’s Male Hummingbirds at the Feeder

10,000 Birds

The Calliope Hummingbird is the smallest North American breeding bird 1. The males arrive on breeding grounds before the females and, according to their range map, they probably breed here in Shasta County. This is around the time of year I expect to start seeing the Calliope Hummingbird ( Selasphorus calliope ) at my feeders.