Bryce W. Robinson |

April 27, 2012

Nashville Warbler- Oreothlypis ruficapilla

by Bryce W. Robinson

Nashville Warbler- Oreothlypis ruficapilla. 11x15" colored pencil on bristol.

I’ve started a study of Warblers. I am seeing quite a few in the field, as we are in the full swing of spring migration. The warblers are a large group of birds. I feel an appropriate way to make sure I learn the ins and outs of these birds is to not only actively search them out, but illustrate them and really study each species. The first time I saw the Nashville Warbler, I thought it might be a MacGillivray’s. After seeing it a few more times, and really spending some time in my guidebook, I learned the difference. The red crown of the Nashville males is often hidden. I have only seen it once so far. The most helpful tip to quickly separate the Nashville from the MacGillivray’s is the throat. Nashville is yellow, MacGillivray’s is grey. There are other factors separating the two, but I feel that the throat is the most helpful tip. I have still not seen the MacGillivray’s, but I will and when I do, I will illustrate it as well.

April 19, 2012

Youth in the Red-tailed Hawk

by Bryce W. Robinson

Juvenile Red-tailed Hawk- Buteo jamaicensis beginning its first molt into adult plumage

*REVISION* Originally I had posted this photo, claiming that it was a young juvenile fresh in the world. I’ve since been corrected, and feel very embarrassed for missing an obvious sign that this bird is indeed a first year undergoing its first molt. Notice the primaries with the dark edge. These are new adult feathers. I am not an authority, and make mistakes often. I want to stress that if anyone reading my posts catches an error, or has any critiques, please feel free to correct me or bring up your point. After all, I am only a student, and need the help to learn. Thanks to Jerry for being a friend and making sure I’m headed in the right direction. Certainly, this is not the best photo, but I thought it worthy of sharing. This bird is probably on its first or second week out of the nest. Note the pale iris, semi-translucent primaries, and neatly banded tail, all features indicating a juvenile bird. This youthful creature was not sure what to think of me as I approached and let the shutter sing. He hardly knew what humans meant, but as with all animals, I’m sure he will learn.

April 17, 2012

What I See When I Work

by Bryce W. Robinson

Male Costa's Hummingbird- Calypte costae

I have an incredible job. I birdwatch for a living…

Today I had multiple opportunities with cooperative birds. I just thought I’d share what are daily birds where I work.

Nashville Warbler- Oreothlypis ruficapilla

I’ve been noticing a great deal of Nashville Warbler’s moving through. The last two weeks were full of Orange-crowned Warblers. I didn’t see any today. Their migration peak for the area is most likely on its tail end.

Ash-throated Flycatcher- Myiarchis cinerascens

I see many Ash-throated Flycatchers. They are very timid birds, always hard to photograph. Today I lucked out with a semi-decent shot. I’ll take what I can get with this bird. They are great, charismatic birds. I love starting in the morning, hearing many birds, and among them the familiar coach whistle call of this Tyrant.

I really am blessed with an incredible job. Can’t wait till tomorrow.

2 Comments

April 16, 2012

A New Medium and the American Kestrel

by Bryce W. Robinson

Male American Kestrel- Falco sparverius. Colored pencil on bristol.

Yesterday I decided to get adventurous and branch out to a medium both unfamiliar and intimidating to me. I bought a set of colored pencils, and chose to make my first pencil attempt at an untouched subject, the American Kestrel. Although common, the American Kestrel is one of my favorite birds. They are extremely adept hunters, and taking time to watch them as they search for prey is certain to be an enjoyable show. The males are brightly colored, begging the question how such a brightly colored hunter is as successful as these birds are. Truly, the bright plumage is a wonder. These queries intrigue me to no end. I would love to know if anyone has ever looked into the possibilities of why and how the kestrel’s developed the plumage they have. As for now, it remains a mystery to me.

I love the new pencils. I am going to take some time away from painting to get to know the new medium. They are much more laid back to use. I look forward to learning more about how to use the pencils, and figuring out some tricks that will help me prod

2 Comments