A studio for bird study

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November 22, 2011

White-crowned Sparrow- An Identification Difficulty

by Bryce W. Robinson

As a raptor enthusiast, I know the challenge juvenile and immature birds can present when grasping for identification. Sparrows are a vastly diverse group, with multiple similar looking species. This coupled with the variation of juvenile and immature plumage has presented quite the challenge in learning field identification for these birds. I am currently on location in south central Utah conducting winter raptor surveys, and have seen a fair number of sparrow species in this high desert landscape. I was able to catch this photograph that displays an immature bird that may stump the beginning birder.

This is an immature White-crowned Sparrow ( Zonotrichia leucophrys). For identification, note the buff cheek. Also, note the prominent wing bars and overall fresh appearance to the bird. I believe the White-crowned Sparrow has a complex alternate molt strategy, so this bird has gone through a pre-formative molt transitioning from juvenal plumage into this immature “first winter” formative plumage. In spring it will transition into breeding or alternate plumage when it undergoes a pre-alternate molt.

As I am currently conducting winter surveys for raptors, I have gathered quite a few wonderful pictures and stories I am excited to share. I am working on learning aging of Golden Eagles, and will soon share some photos of a few birds, and my ideas as to their age. I saw a Harlan’s Hawk today, and will return to the area tomorrow with hopes of photographing the striking creature. With luck, I will have something to share.

Till then, enjoy life.

B William

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November 9, 2011

Barn Owl- Tyto alba

by Bryce W. Robinson

Barn Owl- Tyto alba. 16x20" acrylic on stretched canvas. $400

Of any bird, the Barn Owl carries the most mysticism in its ghostly glare. As it flies through the air, it resemble a specter floating through the sky hunting for what it desires. Its mystic nature is also matched with an elegant aura of regality. This creature is certainly stunning.

The last time I met the gaze of the Barn Owl was along the Jordan River, in a grove of tall cottonwoods. I was birding a series of shallow ponds, seeing a number of Avocets, Killdeer, Mallards, and many other typical wetland inhabitants. As I stalked a group of Avocets, I made my way around the base of a large tree. With my senses tuned to the slightest movement, it still seemed spectacular that I noticed a large figure silently take to the sky directly above my head. I was ecstatic as I watched the retreat of a Barn Owl into a cottonwood grove some 50 yards away. I could not see where the bird had settled, so I scanned the trees in hopes of discovering the timid owl. Through the lens of my binoculars, my eyes came to a deep and dark marbled glare. The bird, hidden in the trees, far from me, was still watching my movement. This predator knew my intentions, and was certain to watch until I had gone. What an intelligent creature. After minutes in a lockdown stare, I continued about my business to leave the owl in peace. How I respect Tyto alba, the Barn Owl.

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