December
8, 2004 – phoebes sally forth
For the
last few weeks Say's Phoebes have been hunting in the meadows
by the Visitor Center, using local perches – like the picnic
tables – to watch for insect prey.
The real treat, of course, is watching them in action...
...because they are great aerial acrobats.
They are a challenge to photograph – for every decent shot
there are dozens that don't work.
Here's a good look at the wing feathers.
And here's a look at folded wings and tail feathers on a familiar
perch – the Long Valley Loop trail sign...
...as well as a launch.
Now let's see the same move from a
Black Phoebe.
Note that the head remains level while the body is sideways.
