Winter birding can sometimes be a colorful surprise. While there are often fewer birds than in spring, those who hang in there are easier to see on leafless trees, but not so interesting in their drab overwintering plumage. But waterfowl, hawks and owls are breeding around North America, and in
spectacular peak breeding plumage. Where the temperature is more moderate, other birds like this slightly outrageously colored male Anna's Hummingbird (pictured above) who posed for me in a recent birding outing in California, are also in
tip-top-shape and look stunning. And I was able to watch his high altitude loops and spirals designed to attract females.
Winter doesn't mean dull birding! There is still color all around and lots of activity - get outside and don't miss it!
Check out our newsletter this month:
- choose the right native berry bushes for your backyard
- find out how jays are environmental engineers
- watch some birdcams
- help out a beautiful woodpecker with a declining population
- learn to ID a couple of pretty red winter birds
- find out what's going on with these beautiful Anna's Hummingbirds in winter
Anna's Hummingbird
Photo Credit: Deborah Rivel
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