Green Heron and other Winged Things

I went with a friend this morning to a nearby boating access area that is run by the NC Wildlife Commission.  We were after the Green Heron.  The area was fairly busy but before long the heron put in an appearance.  We had hoped that the cloud cover was going to clear early however by the time we left, there was still a light drizzle from time to time and low clouds.







There were lots of small birds in the area.  Several patches of blackberries had birds coming in for a bite.  This Eastern Kingbird would duck in and grab a berry from time to time.

Several areas were planted with what looks to be millet were attracting lots of Goldfinches and some Indigo Buntings.  I thought it was a really good thing that thought was given to planting these areas.

Of course almost as soon as I arrived home, the sun finally started peeking out from the cloud cover.  Definitely an area to revisit another time.  We have been in this cycle of rain and storms on almost a daily basis.  It REALLY is getting old.  For sure the mosquitoes are having a big time with plenty of breeding areas from standing water.

The Social Goldfinches

Beak contact particularly between male and female birds is a way of socializing and in many cases, a prelude to mate selection.  If you have ever really watched Goldfinches, I am sure you have noticed they generally travel in groups and when one flies, the remainder of the group usually follow.

Personal observations show they are very social birds.  I encountered a rather large group that were feeding on some seeds heads of flowers and grasses but my attention was captured by a few off to the side of the main group.








There were three females and one male in this particular side group.  The male approached the first female.  She wanted no part of him.

He then moved on to the second female.  A little brief beak action but nothing more.

Again he moved on to the third female.  Some more beak action.  I was tickled as the second female appears to have a pleased look about her.