I mentioned a few days ago that there are many kinds of sparrow and here is another. This is the Spotted Towhee (Pipilo maculatus), whom I had the pleasure of meeting this afternoon on the Westsong Walkway. A couple of passersby and I marvelled at what an unusual bird it was. But apparently it's not unusual at all. They're said to be quite common here in Victoria and again I was reminded that I tend to go through the days not really aware of what is all around me. How could I have spent over 15 years of my life here in Victoria without ever noticing this bird?
They have a very distinctive cry -- they aren't songbirds so it's more of a croak-y thing. They are also less skittish than most birds.
ReplyDeleteMy mother from Ontario found them fascinating when she visited.
Superb photo, Ben.
ReplyDeleteWow !
ReplyDeleteNow really, that has to be stuffed and you bought it somewhere :) !
Great close-up.
Cool red eyes on that guy.
Oh that is a marvelous photo Benjamin!
ReplyDeleteI can't say that I remember having seen that bird in Victoria either and I even lived there for a while.
On my latest visits I've seen stellar jays and bald eagles near my daughter's home in Sidney.
I've never seen that bird before, either-- but I'm no bird expert!
ReplyDeleteI'm really enjoying these bird photos, Benjamin- bravo!