BHC Loc: Strawberry Valley, JF, USA

The average birder is not an expert on all birds, not a genius and certainly not a magician. When I see a photo of a bird I havn't seen before, the first step is to consult an authoritative text. I use the Audubon, iBird, National Geographic, Lone Pine, Peterson, Sibley and several other guides. If I can't identify the bird, I will try to identify similar or dissimilar distinct characteristics butween the photo and the reference. Any other birders will try to do the same. When enough of get together we will try to properly identify the bird. Saying it doesn't look like an "X" doesn't mean I know what it is. If I'm wrong, point out where I'm wrong. Don't accuse me of playing games by making you guess, don't give me the, "that's my story and I'm sticking to it" line and don't come up with a name that nobody can verify. If you have professional credentials, enlighten us. I have listened to some of the best birders on the west coast discuss the identity of a bird for hours. They may never make a positive identification, but they have educated themselves in the meantime.

I don't know what the bird is, but I think I can show what it isn't. Look at the picture, read my comment and then help us all by telling us what you think it is and why you think so. Don't get offended; get curious. That's how birders learn, and that's how new species are discovered.

cathymertz Loc: Mickleton, NJ

I use the Sibley book & you're right, I'm just learning. Thanks for the comment!

BHC Loc: Strawberry Valley, JF, USA

Cathy, thanks for your response. Sibley is one of the best books on the market. You can also get some good references in the form of books on-line; one of the big advantages of on-line references is the ability to enlarge part of a drawing or photo to note certain details. I was able to enlarge your picture (temporarily) and noted three details I hadn't seen before.
1. Your bird has a copper patch above the eye.
2. It has a black spot under the eye.
3. It has a black patch on the breast.

My Sibley is in storage, so I was unable to check to see if the Northern Flicker in that book has those features. If so, you made a difficult but excellent ID. If not, maybe we both need to research farther. WARNING: No matter how "nerdy" others may think it is, birding is highly addictive.

Oh, another quick point of interest. Duck hunters are some of the best birders in the country. What other group has to be able to identify migratory waterfowl at 60-75 yards( to obey limits on some species), make a decision, raise a weapon and fire at a dodging target flying 35-70 mph. Some are so good they will limit their targets to a particular species. Whether or not you are a hunter (I no longer hunt except with a camera), you must admire an experienced hunter's bird recognition abilities.

cathymertz Loc: Mickleton, NJ

This is a scan from the book. What do you think?

NF

Wizz Loc: Maryland, USA

Wonderful capture!

BHC Loc: Strawberry Valley, JF, USA

Based on the information in your book, you are absolutely right. It is a Northern Flicker. I just updated ny information and found several photos that support your ID. I obviously stopped too soon in my research; gotta find my Sibley. Sorry I doubted you!

cathymertz Loc: Mickleton, NJ

Really, no problem. Just have to take another anxiety pill:)

WVHillbilly Loc: West Virginia

I liked it before, even better with the cropping. We don't see many of those around here.
Have plenty of the giant piliated (sp?) guys around tho. Before the rooster at day break, they sound like a construction crew hammering.

cathymertz Loc: Mickleton, NJ

:) :) :)

Laura C Loc: Maryland

Hey nice shot. I have never seen one of those before. :thumbup:

cathymertz Loc: Mickleton, NJ

I have been seeing some birds this year that I have never seen. It's crazy & I love it :-)

BHC Loc: Strawberry Valley, JF, USA

Cathy

Have you not been properly advised that continuing to watch those little feathered creatures will be your undoing in that you will become hopelessly captivated and permanently addicted?

I sincerely hope that you will continue to share photographic remembrances of your addiction with the rest of us.

cathymertz Loc: Mickleton, NJ

Thank you for the kind words & I certainly am addicted!