Kids' Corner — Sacramento Audubon Society

Meet the Killdeer

This month let’s learn about an interesting shorebird in the plover family called a Killdeer, (Charadrius vociferus). Killdeers somewhat tolerate human presence so it is fairly easy to observe them, at least from a distance. Their calls are frequently heard before they are seen. They tend to vocalize after the slightest disturbance or whenever a potential predator comes into view. Killdeers make a call that sounds similar to their name and this is why they were given their common name. The species name, vociferus, means “shouting” or “yelling” in Latin so that name is quite fitting too.

Adult Killdeer, Image by Ed Harper

Killdeer populations can be found in many regions of the U.S. and in Newfoundland, Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. 

Killdeer populations are either “resident” species or “medium-distance migrants”. In the Sacramento region they live here year-round. This is also the case for other populations in the southern half of the U.S. and along the Pacific coast. In contrast, the populations that nest in the colder, northern states migrate south for the winter. Some populations migrate as far south as South America! It is interesting that migrating Killdeers often fly over populations that are non-migratory.

Killdeers are often solitary birds or are seen in pairs during the nesting season. They are not known to gather into large flocks but may form small groups when lingering in their summer habitats or during migration.

Killdeers travel by walking or running on the ground or by direct flight with rapid wing beats. They are good swimmers but aren’t seen in the water very often.

What do Killdeers look like?

Adult Killdeer, Image by Paul Miller

Killdeers are tall, slender birds about the size of American Robins. Adult males and females look similar. They have two distinctive, dark chest bands with the upper band continuing around the neck. It's the only plover in North America with two breast bands and is the largest of the ringed plovers. Their chest bands contrast greatly with their white chests. Some sources report that the chest bands and/or facial markings of females are duller. Killdeers have bright white collars, red eye rings, short dark bills, white foreheads, white stripes behind their eyes, long flesh-colored legs, long tails, grayish-brown backs with reddish feather edges, brown heads with areas of black and white, orange rumps, and brown upper tail feathers. Their wings are long and pointed which enable them to fly fast and maneuver quickly. Black feathers with a white central band are visible on outstretched wings. In flight, they have noticeable orange (or rusty) midline tail feathers.

Adult Killdeer, Image by Larry Hickey

Killdeer chicks, Image by Ray Rozema

Juvenile birds with their downy feathers are similar to adults but are smaller and only have one dark chest band. They have white abdomens, foreheads, necks, and chins. There is a light reddish or rufous color on their undersides near the rear. Their upper parts are tanish-brown with black. Because of their smaller size and single chest band, young Killdeers could be incorrectly identified as being other plover species. 

Where do Killdeers live and nest?

Killdeers are usually found in short vegetation, up to one inch in height or in areas with sandy or gravelly surfaces. They are seen both in natural environments and human-modified habitats. Their close proximity to humans puts Killdeers at a huge risk for pesticide poisoning since they forage and nest on surfaces that are often sprayed with toxins. Killdeer prefer open or semi-open areas such as sandbars, shores of rivers, ponds, and lakes, mudflats or lagoons, fields, lawns, driveways, meadows, athletic fields, gravel parking lots, wetlands, airports, and golf courses. Killdeers are a type of shorebird but a dry prairie is just as welcoming to a Killdeer as a river shore. Most other shorebird species remain close to water. 

Killdeer with eggs, Image by Chris Conard

The nest sites of Killdeers are well camouflaged. Because their egg shells have a speckled design that makes them resemble pebbles, their eggs blend well into the environment. Their nests are simple depressions in the ground about 3-3.5 inches across and are often made in gravel parking lots, on bare soil, lawns, parks, short grass fields, along river edges, and on farmland that has short vegetation due to cattle grazing. They may place their nests in open dry areas but will also require shallow water or mudflats where their young can forage. Killdeers occasionally nest on gravel rooftops making it difficult for the fledglings to descend to the ground to find food. One interesting fact is that after laying their eggs, Killdeers will  frequently add light-colored items to their nests, such as white stones or sea shells, along with grass, twigs, and/or trash.

Incubation (or sitting on the eggs to keep them warm) is done by both parents for 22-28 days. In very hot climates, adults will sometimes shade the eggs with their bodies. They will also attempt to keep the eggs cool by placing their water-soaked belly feathers next to the eggs.

Adult Killdeer displaying, Image by Susie Nishio

Because Killdeers nest on the ground, they use several tactics to try to keep their eggs safe. They often vocalize loudly at predators and turn to expose their orange rump feathers as a warning. Adult Killdeer also pretend to be injured in order to lure predators away from the nest. Called “the broken-wing distraction display,” they will drag their bodies and wings on the ground while hopping on one leg. This distraction display can be dangerous for Killdeers, but they are usually able to fly away before a predator gets too close. In addition, when it appears that a large animal could crush the eggs in its path, an adult Killdeer will fluff up their feathers, fan its tail over its head, and then run towards the threat while loudly vocalizing. Their goal is to startle the animal so that it changes its direction, avoiding the nest. One more method Killdeers use is to have several false nest sites. They will go to the false sites if predators come around. The predators eventually tire of examining empty nests and will leave the area!

Killdeer hatchlings hatch with eyes open and a full cover of downy feathers. Soon after their feathers dry, their parents lead them to an area of dense vegetation with cover so they can look safely for food. The hatchlings hunt and feed for themselves. However, both parents watch over and protect them. If the parents sound an alarm call, the chicks instinctively flatten themselves on the ground and remain motionless. Parents and young remain in close association until the young can fly about a month after hatching. 

Killdeer adult and chick, Image by Ed harper

What do Killdeers eat? 

Killdeer are beneficial because they control insects that are considered garden and crop pests such as grasshoppers. They also feed on invertebrates such as earthworms, centipedes, flies, beetles, spiders, snails, crayfish, fly larvae, and aquatic insect larvae. Kildeers will occasionally eat berries, seeds left in agricultural lands, and small vertebrates such as frogs or minnows.

Killdeer often forage (or hunt for food) in the daytime, but may also hunt at night when it’s safer, especially in the non-breeding season. When on the ground and foraging, they will often start to run or walk, then will pause suddenly and bring their heads upwards flashing their striking throat bands, and then bring their heads back down and start moving again. This behavior is thought to help startle prey so they come to the surface. Killdeers also use a technique called foot stir or foot-trembling. This is when they stand on one foot while shaking or patting the other foot in mud or shallow water. The vibrations created by their foot movements make the hidden prey rise upwards so that they can be seen and caught. Additionally, Killdeer forage in fields and have been known to follow farmers’ plows which help to expose earthworms and grubs.

What do Killdeers sound like?

Many people are familiar with the Killdeers’ shrill, piercing, far-carrying, mournful, two-syllable kill-deer call that is often heard. All Killdeer sounds are high-pitched, from 1-4 syllables and their sounds can be drawn out. Calls have been described as kil-deee, kee-di-de-de, dee-dee-dee, fill-deee, deee, tyeeeeeee-deew-deew, deeekee-di-di-di. During flight, their calls are a repeating kil-deer or kee-deeyu. Their alarm call is a fast trill. You can listen to Killdeers calling now.

Killdeer (Charadrius vociferus), call
Ed Pandolfino
Killdeer (Charadrius vociferus), flight call
Paul Marvin
Killdeer (Charadrius vociferus), call from chick that's separated from parents
Andrew Spencer
Killdeer (Charadrius vociferus), alarm call, pair calling
Andrew Spencer
Killdeer (Charadrius vociferus), call
Thomas Magarian
Killdeer (Charadrius vociferus), alarm call
Tayler Brooks

Meet the Northern Pintail

Northern Pintails, male and female, Image by Larry Hickey

This month let’s learn about a duck species that is often found in the Sacramento area called the Northern Pintail (Anus acuta). Northern Pintails are widespread and found across North America, Europe, and Asia. They are in a group of ducks called dabbling ducks which prefer to be in shallow water where marsh plants grow. Dabbling ducks seldom dive; but rather will search for food near the water’s surface. Although Northern Pintails are abundant over many regions throughout the world, their numbers have steadily declined for decades due to habitat loss or change. Their wetland and prairie habitats are continually being converted and fragmented. In addition, some experts say that a series of drought years on the northern plains may drastically reduce nesting success there.

Most Northern Pintail populations are migratory birds (relocating depending on the season) and are one of the first duck species to migrate every spring and fall. They time their spring migration well and arrive in their northern nesting range as soon as the ice melts. Large flocks of Northern Pintails migrate at night and can fly great distances at speeds up to 65 miles per hour due to their slender bodies and their 3-foot wingspan. They nest in the northern-central parts of the United States, Canada, Greenland, in northern Europe, the Middle East, India, and Asia. 

Northern Pintails usually spend their winters south of their nesting range where it is warmer and food is more plentiful, usually in the southern United States or Mexico. They arrive in the Sacramento Valley after their nesting season is over and are quite common here from October through mid-March. Occasionally Northern Pintails are seen in our valley in other months as well. In the winter they gather in large flocks; but are accepting of other waterfowl and are often seen among several different bird species. They are comfortable either when waddling on land or swimming in water but can quickly take flight and maneuver through the air with great skill. When at great heights, they will use a zig-zag flight pattern when descending to look for food on land.

What do Northern Pintails look like?

Northern Pintail, male, Image by Daniel Lee Brown

When both on water and in flight, Northern Pintails are often described as elegant or handsome. Males have very long central pin-like tail feathers (which become even longer in the nesting season). This is why the species got its name. Northern Pintails are sometimes referred to as sprigs or sprig-tails because hunters said their tails resemble plant stems. 

Northern Pintails have smallish heads, slim bodies, long and slender necks, and long narrow wings. Their slim bodies and long necks are a way to separate them from other duck species. During the nesting season, males look very different from females. Adult males have eye-catching white neck stripes, white chests, chocolate brown heads and throats, gray sides and backs that are finely speckled with black, white rump patches, blue-gray bills which have a central black stripe running to the tip, slate-gray legs and feet, and long black tails. During flight, one can see a brilliant metallic (or iridescent) green or bronze patch on the inner wings. These inner wing patches are called specula, (the singular is speculum). There is a bright white trailing edge on the specula as well. Female Northern Pintails are more uniform in color. They have grayish-brown heads, backs, and wings, brown sides, pointed tails, blue-gray bills with black blotching, bronze-brown specula with a white trailing edge, and slate-gray legs and feet. They have a scalloped pattern on both their backs and chests. The plainer plumage (overall feather coloration) of the females makes them camouflage well while sitting on nests. Immature birds look similar to adult females but have dark bills, dark brown to tan heads, and have speckled white and brown bellies.

Both adult males and females have a similar drab coloration in their molting season, a four-week period after nesting is complete. During this time, Northern Pintails are a mottled brown and white all over with dark bills and pale, unmarked faces. This plumage is called eclipse plumage. Northern Pintails are flightless as they molt and become secretive as they wait for new wintering feathers to grow.

Where do Northern Pintails live and nest?

Northern Pintail, male, Image by Mary Forrestal

At various times of the year and in different regions, Northern Pintails are found along coasts and estuaries, in prairies, agricultural fields, flooded fields, shallow wetlands, meadows, grasslands, marshes, on or near streams, creeks, lakes, ponds, rivers, and even in treeless, in Arctic regions, also known as tundra, and in the far northern regions of the world also known as boreal habitat.

Female Northern Pintails often choose their nest sites further away from water than many other duck species. The nest site is a small clearing or shallow depression on the ground surrounded by low grasses or plants The female lines her nest with grasses, sometimes twigs and leaves, and her own down feathers. Only females incubate the eggs (sit on eggs to keep them warm) and the incubation period lasts for three to four weeks. Soon after the ducklings hatch, the mother leads them to the nearest body of water where they immediately swim and forage for themselves. Ducklings look for dead insects on the surface of the water. The mother stays close by the young birds for 4-6 weeks. The ducklings are able to fly in about 38-52 days after hatching. Female Northern Pintails will defend her chicks from predators by flying towards the threat to attempt to scare them or by leading predators away by pretending to be injured.

National Wildlife Refuges and agricultural fields are great places to look for Northern Pintails. There are several locations in the Sacramento Valley region to locate these ducks including: the Cosumnes River Preserve, Stone Lakes National Wildlife Preserve, the Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area, and the Woodbridge Ecological Reserve.

Northern Pintail, male and female, Image by Larry Hickey


What do Northern Pintails eat?

In the fall and winter, Northern Pintails eat the seeds and nuts of weeds and grasses, and when available, will also take advantage of agricultural waste field grain. They are agile on both land and on water. Their bills are not only efficient at scooping up aquatic insects and plant seeds when in water but also at picking up seeds and grains when waddling on land. In both spring and summer, Northern Pintails will eat roots, algae, and new growth on aquatic plants. In the summer they eat protein-rich aquatic insects, mollusks, snails, crustaceans, and sometimes tadpoles and small fish. Northern Pintails forage (or search for food) either on or near the water’s surface. Their extra long necks allow them to reach further underwater than the other species of dabbling ducks. They find a good amount of food underwater in the mud. When foraging, Northern Pintails often tip their entire bodies so that their length is perpendicular to the water and pointing their tails toward the sky. They also will forage by dipping their heads and necks underwater as their bodies are swimming horizontal on the water.

Northern Pintails foraging for food. Image by Mary Forrestal

What do Northern Pintails sound like?

The male and female Northern Pintails have different calls. The male’s call is usually higher in pitch. Some of the males’ calls are described as a “choop”, “geeheee”, “whee", or a soft “wheezy whistle". Females’ calls have been described as a coarse nasal “quack” or “croak" and also a “ke” or “kuk” sound. Ducklings’ calls are often a repeated soft “peep" or a louder repeated “peep" when in distress. You can listen to the calls of Northern Pintails now.

Northern Pintail (Anas acuta), female in flight
Jens Kirkeby
Northern Pintail (Anas acuta), the male's repeated whistle-like call
Peter Boesman
Northern Pintail (Anas acuta), two females calling
Ryan P. O'Donnell
Northern Pintail (Anas acuta), calls of both male and female, male more toward end
Paul Marvin
Northern Pintail (Anas acuta), mostly males calling
Paul Marvin
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Meet the Lincoln Sparrow

Lincoln’s Sparrow, Image by Mary Forrestal

This month, let’s learn about a small-to-medium sized sparrow, called the Lincoln’s Sparrow (Melospiza lincolnii). Lincoln’s Sparrows are medium-distance migrants (or birds that change location depending on the season). They migrate into the Sacramento Valley starting in September and leave again in the spring around April to find nesting sites. Lincoln’s Sparrows have a reputation of being shy or elusive birds and often remain hidden under thick groundcover or bushes. There have been limited studies about Lincoln’s Sparrows because the majority nest in cold, northern (or boreal) regions. They tend to be solitary birds but sometimes they travel and forage with small groups of mixed sparrow species, especially during migration. There are three subspecies of Lincoln’s Sparrows, each having slight differences in coloration and size.

What do Lincoln’s Sparrows look like? 

Lincoln Sparrow, Image by Daniel Lee Brown

At first glance, Lincoln’s Sparrows appear to be rather plain brownish-gray birds. However, when studying them more closely, the fine detail and harmonizing colors of their plumage (feathers) are very attractive. One author described the Lincoln’s Sparrow as “wearing a fine tailored suit.” Their pale breasts and sides are streaked with very thin dark lines and tinged with a buff color. In comparison, the closely related Song Sparrow has thicker streaking on the breast and a longer tail. Lincoln’s Sparrows also have thin, fairly small conical bills, dark eyes surrounded by pale eye rings, a thin brown eye line that runs from the back of their eyes down towards their neck region. A central dark spot on their breast may be present. They also have broad gray eyebrows (or supercilium), a gray face, a white chin region with tiny dark streaks, both buffy (or light brownish-yellow) and black cheek streaks, gray and brown backs with dark streaking, and reddish-brown or rusty edges on their wings and tails.

Lincoln Sparrow, Image by Jane Van Kessel

Lincoln’s Sparrows have stripes on their crowns (or the tops of their heads). There is a central gray crown stripe bordered by two reddish-brown stripes streaked with black. Lincoln’s Sparrows can “raise up” their crown feathers forming a crest or peak. Juveniles look similar to adult birds but are more heavily streaked overall and do not have the buffy breast that's typical with adult plumage.

 

Where do Lincoln’s Sparrows live and nest? 

Lincoln’s Sparrow, Image by Chris Conard

The Lincoln’s Sparrow nesting range is across Canada all the way east to Newfoundland, in eastern and far-northern California, and parts of Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Utah, Oregon, Washington, New Mexico, and Wyoming, usually from June-August.

In the summer, Lincoln’s Sparrows frequently nest in mountainous areas under willow and alder thickets or in wet meadows with sedges (grass-like plants) in wetlands. Their nests are also located near patches of cottonwoods or black spruce, areas with sphagnum moss present, and in shrubby areas near streams. Lincoln’s Sparrows are ground nesters and the females construct cup-shaped nests that are usually located under thick cover. Often females will first dig out a depression in the ground for their nests before gathering materials. They weave together willow bark and dried grasses and sedges to make the outer part of the nest. Then, they line the nests with soft plant material. Lincoln’s Sparrow females incubate their eggs (sit on eggs to keep them warm). Both parents help to feed the nestlings who are able to fly a distance of about 30 feet on the sixth day of life. Young birds fledge (or leave) the nests at around 9-12 days after hatching and their parents may continue to care for them for 2-3 additional weeks. 

Lincoln’s Sparrows spend their winters along the Pacific Coast south from British Columbia, in central and southern California, several southern states in the U.S., Mexico, Honduras, and El Salvador. Lincoln’s Sparrow habitats in wintertime include many types of forests, weedy pastures, and shrubby fields. They can also be found around the edges or ponds and marshes.

What do Lincoln’s Sparrows eat?

Lincoln Sparrow, Image by Jane Van Kessel

Lincoln’s Sparrows primarily eat the seeds of weeds and grasses in the winter and switch to eating both seeds and  insects, such as beetles, flies, caterpillars, moths, leafhoppers, ants, and aphids in the summer. They spend a lot of time on the ground under dense thickets foraging (hunting) for food and frequently will scratch the ground’s surface to uncover seeds or insects. They will sometimes look for food when perching in low trees or bushes and can use aerial maneuvers to catch moths.

 

Lincoln’s Sparrow, Image by Ray Rozema

What do Lincoln’s Sparrows sound like?

Lincoln’s Sparrows have a loud wren-like song that has been described as buzzy, warbling, trilling, or bubbly and is commonly heard near their nesting territories. During nesting season, males often perch and sing to claim their territories. Males use specific calls to “hopefully” scare intruders away from their nest sites. In the winter months especially, Lincoln’s Sparrows are often hidden and secretive. It’s their unique call(s) that can help birders identify and possibly see them. They have calls that sound like a buzzy “zeee” or “zeet”, a buzzing “zrrr-zrrr-zrrr”, and a flat “chup” or “chep”. You can listen to the song and calls of Lincoln's Sparrows now.

Lincoln's Sparrow (Melospiza lincolnii), buzz and "chup" calls
Paul Marvin
Lincoln's Sparrow (Melospiza lincolnii), call
Paul Marvin
Lincoln's Sparrow (Melospiza lincolnii), song
Ron Overholtz
Lincoln's Sparrow (Melospiza lincolnii), song
Ed Pandolfino
Lincoln's Sparrow (Melospiza lincolnii), call
Sunny Tseng
Lincoln's Sparrow (Melospiza lincolnii), call
Richard E. Webster
Lincoln's Sparrow (Melospiza lincolnii), song
Ed Pandolfino

Meet the Greater Yellowlegs

Greater Yellowlegs, Image by Ray Rozema

This month let’s learn about a shorebird in the sandpiper (or Scolopacidae) family called Greater Yellowlegs (Tringa melanoleuca). Greater Yellowlegs are elegant-looking wading birds that are around 11-14 inches in length. They were often hunted in the 1900’s and were considered to be “fine game birds.” Their population seems to be fairly stable today.

Greater Yellowlegs usually migrate (to change locations according to seasons) in small flocks in the spring and again in the fall and are considered medium- to long-distance migrants. They are often one of the first shorebirds to begin their spring migration.

Greater Yellowlegs are usually seen alone when they forage (hunt) for food. They move with rapid, jerking movements and a bobbing head. They have a high-stepping gait when they walk, will run with their necks extended when chasing prey, and will swim for short distances, usually when returning to shallower water or to escape from predators. Greater Yellowlegs have been referred to as “marshpipers” because they wade in deeper water than other sandpipers. At night, they roost (rest or sleep) in large flocks with other shorebird species.

Greater Yellowlegs nest in Canada and Alaska and often stay in mosquito-ridden, mossy swamps that have a considerable amount of dead vegetation. This inhospitable and remote habitat makes the Greater Yellowlegs one of the least-studied shorebirds on the continent. Many populations migrate south to their wintering grounds in southern California, near Baja, to Mexico, the West Indies, and to Central and South America. It’s hard to believe that there are populations of Greater Yellowlegs that migrate way down to the southern tip of Argentina!

Greater Yellowlegs are mostly seen in the Sacramento area from mid-June through April when they are not nesting in the north. They are very cautious birds and often are the first to sound an alarm when they think a threat is approaching. Their piercing alarm call alerts other birds in the area and helps humans to locate and identify the species.

What do Greater Yellowlegs look like?

Adult Greater Yellowlegs, Image by Daniel Lee Brown

Female and male Greater Yellowlegs look similar. In addition to having long and graceful yellow-to-orange legs, they are slender birds with an upright posture. They have long, pointed, and blunt-tipped bills that are slightly upturned. The bill length of Greater Yellowlegs is 1.5 times the length of their heads. Their face, neck, heads, and abdomens are white but are speckled with brown and gray. The area in front and around their eyes is often solid white. Greater Yellowlegs also have dark brown wings with pale spotting. In flight, their feet extend beyond their tails and their white rump and white tail that has dark barring (markings) are visible. During nesting season, their bills change to solid black and they develop darker barring on their flanks (or sides) and there is darker streaking on their heads, necks, and sometimes their abdomens as well.

Juvenile birds in general are less heavily marked; but they have more spotting on their backs and wings. Their white breasts have distinct dark streaks.

Their bright yellow legs, erect posture, white rump and tail, and the lack of wing bars make it fairly easy to distinguish Greater Yellowlegs from other North American shorebirds. However, there is a smaller sandpiper species called Lesser Yellowlegs (Tringa flavipes) that greatly resembles Greater Yellowlegs. Birders tend to ignore plumage (or feather color) when attempting to distinguish between these two species. Instead, they look at structure and shape.

Greater Yellowlegs (left) with Lesser Yellowlegs (right), Image by Mary Forrestal

Greater Yellowlegs are bulkier and have longer and thicker bills than do Lesser Yellowlegs. There is often a frontal neck bulge on the Greater Yellowlegs whereas the neck shape of Lesser Yellowlegs is sleeker or smoother. In the non-breeding season, the base on the bills of Greater Yellowlegs is lighter in color than that of Lesser Yellowlegs and Greater Yellowlegs have more distinct flank barring than do Lesser Yellowlegs. The size difference between these two species can usually only be appreciated when the birds are standing close to each other.

Where do Greater Yellowlegs live and nest?

During migration and in winter, Greater Yellowlegs are found in a wide variety of settings from coast to coast, including tidal flats, field, meadows, grasslands, coasts and shorelines, estuaries, rivers, streams, open beaches, mudflats, marshes, flooded agricultural fields, streams, shores of lakes, ponds, and sewage ponds. They nest both in the North American tundra (treeless Arctic regions) and in wet and muddy marshes or meadows in far northern coniferous forests.

Greater Yellowlegs’ well-camouflaged nests are located on the ground in slight depressions. The nests are often constructed on damp moss or peat and are lightly lined with twigs, grass, lichen, or leaves. Greater Yellowlegs’ nests are frequently near water and are often close to an object, such as a log, mound of moss, shrub, or tree. Adult birds will often perch on top of trees near their nesting sites to keep watch.

Nesting pairs are widely spaced apart so that the territory of each pair is maintained. There are 3 or 4 eggs laid in a nest and the nestlings hatch after around 23 days. It is believed that both parents help incubate the eggs (to sit on and keep eggs warm) and to feed the newly hatched young. The young leave the nest within 24 hours of hatching and can immediately find all their own food! The parents lead them to shallow ponds near grass and shrubs. The fledglings will begin learning to fly 18-25 days after hatching and the parents watch over them until that time. Parents protest loudly if predators come around.

Great Yellowlegs, Image by Rich Howard

What do Greater Yellowlegs eat?

Greater Yellowlegs are known to eat a variety of foods including insects, insect larvae, and other invertebrates, such as mollusks. They also eat small fish (such as minnows), crustaceans, snails, marine worms, frogs, seeds, and sometimes berries. Greater Yellowlegs forage in shallow water both in the day and nighttime and they swallow their food whole. Their bills are very sensitive, allowing the birds to feel the contents of the mud and sand as they stir the water and probe for food. Greater Yellowlegs are very active when foraging and are seen moving their heads back and forth while the tip of their bills are submerged in the water. The birds will often stab at the mud or the water’s surface to capture prey.

What do Greater Yellowlegs sound like?

Greater Yellowlegs are often extremely vocal. Their call is usually a 3 (sometimes 2 or 4) note whistle-like call that’s made during flight or right after they land. The third syllable is often lower in pitch. Their call has been described as “tew, tew, tew”, or “a series of sharp high-pitched notes”, or “a series of musical whistles”. Their song has been described as “a loud, ringing, whistled song”. In comparison, the flight call of Lesser Yellowlegs is only 1-2 notes.

Greater Yellowlegs (Tringa melanoleuca), flight call
Paul Marvin
Greater Yellowlegs (Tringa melanoleuca), alarm call
Jeff Dyck
Greater Yellowlegs (Tringa melanoleuca), song
Paul Marvin
Greater Yellowlegs (Tringa melanoleuca), flight call
Paul Marvin

These sounds of the Greater Yellowlegs are from xeno-canto. More Greater Yellowlegs vocalizations can be found at: https://xeno-canto.org/species/Tringa-melanoleuca

Meet the Yellow Warbler

Yellow Warbler, adult male, Image by Ray Rozema 

This month, let’s learn about one of the many beautiful warbler species called the Yellow Warbler, Setophaga petechia. Yellow Warblers are not known to nest in significant numbers in the Sacramento Valley. However, there have been recent confirmed nests at the Cosumnes River Preserve. Yellow Warblers are one of the first warbler species to start their migrations. Birders in our region eagerly anticipate the arrival of Yellow Warblers in the spring and again in the fall. There are subspecies of the Yellow Warbler that have geographical differences and plumage color variation. This article will focus on the one subspecies that is migratory and is seen in the Sacramento Valley. The other two subspecies are non-migratory and are not present in our region.

What do Yellow Warblers look like?

Yellow Warblers are around 5 inches in length and are rounded in shape. Male adults have brilliant yellow heads and chests. Females are not as brightly colored and can have more green on the upper parts. On adult male birds especially, there can be reddish perpendicular streaking on the chests and abdomens. This streaking may also be present on females but is much less pronounced. Yellow Warblers have yellow-olive green backs, straight and thick bills, fairly short tails that are slightly notched, and dark eyes. Their dark eyes strongly contrast with their plain yellow face. This is something to look for when trying to make an identification. Sometimes a white or light yellow eye ring is noticeable, especially on females and immatures. The wings of Yellow Warblers are yellow-olive green with yellow wing bars and edging. Underneath, there is yellow to the tip of their tails which is a characteristic only seen on Yellow Warblers. This yellow coloration under the tail is present even on drab individuals. Young females in the fall can be very dull. Immature birds vary in color from pale yellow, brownish, or grayish. Hatchlings are helpless and have light gray down (soft feathers of a young bird) and have reddish skin.

Yellow Warbler, adult female, Image by Daniel Lee Brown
Notice the slight eye-ring and drabber color of this female.

Where do Yellow Warblers live?

Yellow Warblers migrate north in the spring to nest. They nest as far north as the Arctic Circle and become a widespread species in North America until they migrate south again. Yellow Warblers are frequently seen near various willow species. They are found in brushy habitat near water that can include field edges, forests, canyons, savannas, stream sides, tundra, and orchards. In the fall, most return to their wintering habitats in southern Mexico, Central America, and South America. There’s also a population of wintering Yellow Warblers that spend the winter in southern California and Arizona. Individual birds are very independent when on their wintering grounds. They “go it alone” when finding shelter, food, and protecting their winter territory.

Female Yellow Warblers build sturdy cup-shaped nests in shrubs or immature trees (or saplings). They use strips of bark, plant fibers, plant down, deer hair, feathers, grasses, and spiderwebs to build nests. The nest height is usually around 10 feet, but is sometimes as high as 40 feet. While the female builds the nest, incubates the eggs, and keeps the hatchlings warm, males guard the nesting territory and brings food to the female. Males perch on tree tops and often sings to notify other birds that this particular nesting territory has been claimed. Males may repeat their song up to ten times per minute and will chase away other warblers, as well as many other kinds of birds. Both parents help to feed the young. The young fledge or leave the nest between 9 and 12 days old. They usually follow one of their parents at this time and remain near their parents for 2-3 more weeks.

There is an interesting fact to share about Yellow Warblers. The Brown-headed Cowbird female hides her eggs in other species nests and subsequently makes other species raise their chicks. They do not make nests of their own and frequently chose warbler or blackbird nests for their egg placement. However, Yellow Warbler females can sense when a foreign egg has been deposited in their nests! Female Yellow Warblers will simply make another nest on top of their previous clutch (or group of eggs). Females ignore clutches that had foreign eggs inside. This process may be repeated again and again when necessary.

What do Yellow Warblers eat?

Yellow Warblers usually forage (or search for food) on twigs or the underside of leaves on small branches. They will sometimes catch flying insects in short flight or may hover to reach leaves when they look for food. Their diet consists of caterpillars of various kinds which make up a large part of their diet. In addition, they will eat spiders, moths, beetles, mosquitos, damselflies, leafhoppers and other bugs, and wasps. They will also eat some wild fruit, especially in the wintertime.

Yellow Warbler, Image by Dana J. Miller-Blair

What do Yellow Warblers sound like?

The Yellow Warbler’s song has been described as sounding sweet. It has clear but sometimes variable notes. It is a fast, “bright”, and musical “sweet- sweet- sweet, sweeter than sweet”. Their flight call is described as a high clear trill. Their call is a sweet, rich, or sharp “chip”. The Yellow Warbler’s “seet” alarm call is actually a specific call used to warn about of the presence of a Brown-headed Cowbird! As discussed earlier, Brown-headed Cowbirds are frequent “nest parasites” for both warblers and blackbirds.

American Yellow Warbler (Setophaga aestiva), song by male
Bobby Wilcox
American Yellow Warbler (Setophaga aestiva), adult call
Paul Marvin
American Yellow Warbler (Setophaga aestiva morcomi), call and dawn song
Richard E. Webster
American Yellow Warbler (Setophaga aestiva), flight call
Paul Marvin
American Yellow Warbler (Setophaga aestiva), begging call by juvenile
Paul Driver

These sounds of the Yellow Warbler are from xeno-canto. More Yellow Warbler vocalizations can be found at: https://xeno-canto.org/species/Setophaga-aestiva

California Biodiversity Day for Kids

From the California Department of Fish and Wildlife

September 7th is California Biodiversity Day, a time to inspire discovery and connection to the nature of California. There are over 180 virtual and in-person events happening between September 7th - 15th, 2024! Please visit their website to learn more and find a local event near you, such as guided nature walks, art and family-friendly games, cultural demonstrations, restoration efforts, bioblitzes, and more.

Connect kids to their local nature

Kids of all ages love learning about animals, plants and the nature around them that they can touch, smell, and see. Parents and educators have the power to foster the next generation of environmental stewards by bringing the wonders of the outdoors into their homes and schools and sparking curiosity and experiential learning.

Celebrate California’s biodiversity with your students

We have curated a list of resources to help make it easy for classroom teachers and parents to foster connectivity with nature in fun, simple ways. All of these activities are rooted in STEAM principles and don’t require purchasing of any supplies. These activities can easily be scaled to accommodate various learning abilities and grade levels. Check out our educator’s resource folder and keep reading below to find an activity:

Nature Journaling
Go outside with notebooks and pencils, find a comfy place to sit, and watch the magic happen! Setting aside a dedicated period of time to slow down and tune in with the natural world around you, even in urban areas, can have many lasting benefits to physical and mental health while fostering written communication and art skills. Use this Nature Journaling Guide to discover the nature around you with your students.

Check out this short video with tips on how to facilitate a nature journaling session at your school or local greenspace(Credit: John Muir Laws and Kate Rutter).

Nature Exploration Activity Guide
This Student Activity Guide  contains printable activities to enjoy with kids and guide them through fun nature exploration lessons on the school yard. Credit: Ian Bernstein, California State Parks

Lead a nature scavenger hunt or formal bioblitz on your school yard
A bioblitz is a fun event where people are asked to document as many species that they can find in a certain period of time, in a certain location. Consider a schoolyard bioblitz event to encourage students to take a closer look at nature around their schools, neighborhoods, or nearby green spaces. Document your observations, tally your findings, and display them for all to see and wonder!

Observations can also be collected digitally using the free iNaturalist OR “Seek” by iNaturalist apps. Please read more to learn about when and how to use iNaturalist with students: Educators Guide to using iNaturalist.

Coloring books of marine life
These were designed by California State Park Interpreters to teach about wildlife and outdoor recreation in an exciting, interactive way for students! Download any of these free coloring books by the Marine Protected Area Collaborative Network. https://www.mpacollaborative.org/kids/

Continue discovering!

  • Discover native pollinators around your school and neighborhood! Find your region and download these colorful and fun handouts about the pollinators local to your area

  • Discover California’s Native Marine Wildlife!  This website includes colorful scientific illustrations and fun facts about hundreds of ocean dwelling species! Use as inspiration for art lessons or as a digital database tool to empower students to discover and learn more about these fascinating marine species. (Credit: CA Dept Fish and Wildlife Marine Region)

  • Explore Nature in and around your home with this guide by the iNaturalist and California Academy of Sciences teams!

  • Take a virtual adventure through California with the State Parks Online Resources for Teachers and Students (PORTS) program. Check out the PORTScasts Calendar to tune into a virtual program during California Biodiversity Week (Sept 7 - 15).

  • Visit the California Environmental Literacy Initiative. Learn how you can continue to increase access to impactful environmental-based learning for all of California’s TK - 12 students.

  • Becomeacommunityscientist!Learnhowtocollectnatureobservations onto platforms like iNaturalist and eBird and contribute to our collective knowledge of nature for California Biodiversity Day.

With your help, this year's statewide events will continue to connect people of all ages to the nature of California.

Please visit our website to learn more!

Questions? Please contact: californiabiodiversityday@wildlife.ca.gov

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Discover Your Family’s Next Nature Adventure

Birds and bugs, creeks and streams, what will your family discover on their next nature adventure? Here is a list of great places, organizations, and websites to help you discover that next adventure.

Outside Adventures

  • California Raptor Center is an educational and research center affiliate of UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, and authorized by The Department of Fish and Wildlife, and the US Fish and Wildlife Services to rehabilitate injured and orphaned birds of prey (raptors). Its museum, open to the public weekdays and Saturdays, houses a permanent collection of living, non-releasable raptors.

  • Cosumnes River Preserve is located just south of Elk Grove and a great place for family walks along accessible trails and boardwalks. Once a month “Nature Walks,” seasonal “Ducks in Scopes,” fall and winter Sandhill Crane viewing trips, and a very informative Visitor Center provide great nature-related experiences for all ages. 

  • Effie Yeaw Nature Center is an award-winning environmental education center located in the American River Parkway in Carmichael, CA. Situated in 100 acres of riparian woodlands the nature center offers weekend programs and events for children and their families.

  • Nimbus Fish Hatchery is located in eastern Sacramento County, the hatchery raises Chinook Salmon and Steelhead for release to the American River. Visitor Center offers fun and educational activities for children and adults. On-site nature trail along the American River to view wildlife. Check website for hours, tour reservations.

  • Koobs Nature Area is a nearly 4.7 acre parcel of native trees and plants from a diverse ecosystem, with a creek, three ponds, a bird sanctuary, butterfly gardens and walking trails. Located at 5325 Engle Road in Carmichael, it is open to the public one Saturday each month, March through October, with activities for kids.

  • Sacramento Splash while primarily working with local elementary schools, Sacramento Splash offers several public vernal pool tours every spring in addition to providing self-guided tours and loads of information on their website.

  • Stone Lakes National Wildlife Refuge is located between Elk Grove and Cosumnes River Preserve. With wide, level cement trails, this area is suitable for families with children as well as those with disabilities. In the large marshy area and surrounding fields a variety of bird species can be spotted, including Sand Hill Cranes in the winter. A native plant garden and interpretive kiosks along the trailways add to any visit.

  • Yolo Basin Foundation hosts bat tours in the summer, public tours at the Davis Wetlands and the Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area, and the CA Duck Days in February and other fun activities.

  • Maidu Regional Park is located east of Roseville on Maidu Drive. This is 152-acre park off Rocky Ridge Drive. The park complex includes a museum, rose garden, walking trails, picnic area, historic site, and sports fields.

Inside Adventures

  • The Museum of Science and Curiosity (MOSAC) opened in late 2021 and has interactive hands-on exhibits and programming that explores the wonders of science, technology, engineering, and math.

  • Bohart Museum of Entomology at UC Davis has the seventh largest insect collection in North America, with many California insects on view.

At Home Adventures

  • Project Wild and Flying Wild are online resources designed primarily for educators, with on-line and printable resources for kids and their parents.

  • ColorBird.org The world of birds is diverse and colorful. At ColorBird.org you can download bird illustrations to color, crosswords to do, and more! These activities were created by Michael Erb, an Arizona birder who wanted to combine the wonder of birds with his love of science and learning. Just click on a page that you like, print it, and get coloring.

At ColorBird.org you can download bird illustrations to color, crosswords to do, and more.

Forrest is a Great Horned Owl, one of the animal ambassadors at the California Raptor Center.

Bohart Museum of Entomology has the seventh largest insect collection in North America, Varigated Mothhawk, Image by Daniel Lee Brown

Wild Turkey are often seen strutting around the Effie Yeaw Nature Center, Image be Daniel Lee Brown

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Meet the Black-chinned Hummingbird

Black-chinned Hummingbird, adult male, Image by Ray Rozema

This month let’s learn about the Black-chinned Hummingbird (Archilochus alexandri) which is found in the Sacramento area from April through September. Only a few other species of hummingbird species are commonly seen here: the Anna's Hummingbird which lives here year-round and the Rufous Hummingbird that is seen briefly during migration in both spring and fall. 

Black-chinned Hummingbirds are migratory birds that nest in the western United States, southern British Columbia, and northern Mexico. Most Black-chinned Hummingbirds spend their winters in western Mexico. Some birds pass through the southeastern United States and winter along the Gulf Coast.

If you compare Black-chinned Hummingbirds to humans, they have an extremely fast heart rate (480 beats per minute at rest) and a fast respiration or breathing rate (245 breaths per minute at rest). In flight, their wingbeats are 15-80 times per second! Thankfully, in cold weather, hummingbirds enter a state called torpor where their metabolism is much slower. During torpor, their heart rate lowers to 45-180, their breathing is slow and sporadic, and they get their energy from stored fat which keeps them warm enough to survive.

What do Black-chinned Hummingbirds look like?

Black-chinned Hummingbird, adult male, Image by Daniel Lee Brown

It is extremely difficult to follow a Black-chinned Hummingbird with your eyes because they dart and weave through an environment so quickly. They are small, slender birds that weigh only about three grams. Black-chinned Hummingbirds have long black bills that curve slightly downwards. This type of bill is called a decurved bill. Adult males have bronze-green iridescent backs. Iridescence is defined as luminous coloration that appears to change when movement alters the angle of light. Males also have black and purple throats, light green flanks (or sides), grayish-white chests, and dark heads, wings, and tails. Male Black-chinned Hummingbirds also have white collars that wrap around their necks. It is often much easier to see this white collar than the purple band above. Adult females and juvenile birds have green iridescent backs as well. In contrast to males, females and juveniles have white throats with faint dots or streaking, greenish-gray heads, and white tips on the outer tail feathers. Juvenile male Black-chinned Hummingbirds may have a few tiny iridescent and colorful spots visible on their throat area or throat patch.

The throat patch on a hummingbird is called a gorget. This area can be quite colorful and iridescent on male birds. The male Black-chinned Hummingbird’s gorget is black on top with a purple lower band. Their gorgets can appear solid black especially in low-light conditions.

Black-chinned Hummingbirds have been noted to flick or pump their tails more often than some other hummingbird species. They flip and spread their tails often while hovering. Some other helpful identification points for Black-chinned Hummingbirds is that they have slightly a longer bill and a somewhat thinner body shape and necks than do other species in our area.

Although female hummingbirds do not have brightly colored gorgets like males, the females of some species sometimes have a small area of colorful, iridescent gorget feathers. Since hummingbird females tend to look the same, it can be quite difficult to tell which species they are.

Where do Black-chinned Hummingbirds live and nest?

Black-chinned Hummingbird, adult male, Image by Chris Conard

Black-chinned Hummingbirds are highly adaptable and live in a variety of habitats including arid canyons, high mountains, scrublands, forests and woodlands, and along rivers (riparian habitat). In addition, they will eagerly nest in urban and suburban habitat if they are offered tall trees and flowering shrubs and vines. As far as nesting, it’s the female that does all the work. The male is usually not involved.

Black-chinned Hummingbird females build their nests at various heights. Their nests are often fairly low (4-8 feet from the ground) but can be as high as 30 feet. Black-chinned Hummingbird nests are frequently constructed on horizontal, exposed, and bare tree branches.

Black-chinned Hummingbird, female with nestling on nest, Image by Paul Miller

They also build nests on human structures. The nest is a small compact cup that can stretch lengthwise as the babies grow. Nest materials include spider webs, grasses, plant fibers, insect cocoon fibers, and plant down (plant material that is fluffy or fuzzy in nature) which is used for the lining. Some reports state that females use their whole body to powerfully mould the nest as if it were clay. The nest is often camouflaged with lichen or leaves. Females lay a clutch (or group) of eggs 1-3 times per nesting season. There are usually only two eggs per clutch, each being the size of a coffee bean. Only the females incubate the eggs (sit on eggs to keep them warm) and feed the young. They stick their long bills deep into the nestlings mouths to feed them partially digested food. The young first fly at about 20 days after hatching. Female Black-chinned Hummingbirds will often use the same perch out in the open to keep watch over the nest and easily chase away predators when necessary. Females have been known to nest near several other Black-chinned Hummingbird nests.

What do Black-chinned Hummingbirds eat?

Black-chinned Hummingbirds obtain nectar from flowers putting their long bills deep inside tubular flowers. They eat small insects, spiders, and sugar water in feeders. In cold weather, Black-chinned Hummingbirds may consume up to three times their body weight in nectar per day. They can survive without nectar when there is an ample supply of insects. Black-chinned Hummingbirds catch small insects in flight (such as in a swarm of gnats) or will hover and pluck insects from leaves, etc. Spiders sometimes suspend themselves on fine threads that flow in the air. Hummingbirds will readily catch and eat them. Black-chinned Hummingbirds will also take insects that have been trapped in spider webs.

It is good to have native plants in your yard that are known to be used by hummingbirds for obtaining nectar. When there are mature native plants around, there is less of a reason to put up sugar water feeders. If you do offer sugar water feeders, please clean your feeders often (every one to two days) and do not add food coloring. Molds can grow quickly on feeders in both cold and warm temperatures. Molds can cause hummingbirds’ tongues to swell making it impossible for them to drink. In hot weather, sugar water ferments and becomes toxic to hummingbirds. For more information on feeding hummingbirds check out these Frequently Asked Questions from National Audubon Society.

What do Black-chinned Hummingbirds sound like?

Perhaps one of the easiest ways to identify a Black-chinned Hummingbird is with their sounds. Their calls and distinctive sounds that their wingbeats and tails produce are heard often. There have only been two reports made of a male Black-chinned Hummingbird singing. The song was described as “warbling” and “high-pitched”. You can listen to some sounds of the Black-chinned Hummingbird now.

Black-chinned Hummingbird (Archilochus alexandri)
Ross Gallardy
Black-chinned Hummingbird (Archilochus alexandri)
Richard E. Webster
Black-chinned Hummingbird (Archilochus alexandri)
Thomas G. Graves
Black-chinned Hummingbird (Archilochus alexandri)
Eric DeFonso
Black-chinned Hummingbird (Archilochus alexandri)
Paul Marvin
Black-chinned Hummingbird (Archilochus alexandri)
Dan Lane

These sounds of the Black-chinned Hummingbird are from xeno-canto. More Black-chinned Hummingbird vocalizations can be found at https://xeno-canto.org/species/Archilochus-alexandri

Compiled by Jane Van Kessel

Sources include Cornell’s All About Birds and Birds of the World, National Audubon Society Field Guide, Travis Audubon, Pajarito Environmental Education Center

Meet the American Robin

American Robin, adult male, Image by Larry Hickey

This month, let’s learn about a familiar and very admired songbird called the American Robin (Turdus migratorius). American Robins are in the thrush family and are fairly widespread throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Guatemala. Some populations are migratory while others remain in the same area year-round. Migration is necessary for some populations because food sources are not plentiful in winter in the locations that their nests were built. The Sacramento area has a population of American Robins that stay here year-round. These birds stay because they are able to find food throughout the year. Transient (or short-term) populations of American Robins pass through the Sacramento area as well. Because migrating or wandering flocks may stop for a brief visit, you may occasionally notice a greater number of these beautiful birds than usual in your yard!

What do American Robins look like?

American Robin, adult female, Image by Daniel Lee Brown

American Robins are eye-catching birds that are approximately 8-11 inches long. They have gray-brown backs and wings, dark heads and tails, yellow beaks, black and white streaked throats, long legs, and deep rust or reddish-orange chests. There is white on their lower abdomens, upper under-tail areas, and their eyes are outlined with a white, broken eye ring. Female and immature birds look similar to males; but their colors are usually less pronounced. During flight, an orange under-wing area is visible; but their very noticeable white undertail area is often a helpful identification tool. Juveniles have chests that are heavily spotted with brown, their backs are mottled gray, and orange or light rust color on their sides. Orange may be faintly present on their abdomens and chests as well. 

American Robin, adult male, Image by Susan Goodrich

American Robin, immature, Image by Daniel Lee Brown

Where do American Robins live?

American Robins are found in many habitats. They were at one time a species specific to forests; but have adapted to living in manicured landscapes near humans. American Robins can be found on lawns around homes in cities or towns, on golf courses, in parks, in farmlands, in open grassy areas with shrubs, in the Alaskan tundra, and also in dense woodlands. For some populations, spring migration is a necessity because they need a nesting habitat that has both trees and ample soil moisture. American Robins need moist soil so that they can find earthworms to eat and have mud available for building their nests. One report noted that American Robins will probably be seen less around homes as the increase of lawn-free, drought-tolerant landscapes continues.

American Robins, Image by Paul Miller

Nesting pairs are very protective of their nesting area and become agitated when other birds come near. Their nests are usually constructed in trees or shrubs. American Robins are not cavity nesters but will sometimes build nests on (or inside) man-made structures such as gutters, eaves, ledges, barns, bridges, etc. In western prairies, American Robins may nest close to the ground. In Alaska, they may nest in cliff sides. 

American Robin, Fledgling, Image by Ed Harper

Female American Robins choose nest sites and also construct the nests. They use their wings to press the materials into a cup-shaped nest. Dead grass, paper, feathers, rootlets, moss, and twigs are some of the materials used to make nests. After the nest structure is formed, the female will smear on mud which acts to strengthen it. A fine dry grass is used to line the nest. Females lay three to five blue eggs in early spring and will usually lay eggs two times (or sometimes three times) per season. Both parents take part in feeding the young. Young birds are fed the parents’ regurgitated (partially digested) food, which is often earthworms and beetle larvae. Fledglings learn to be excellent flyers in about two weeks after they fledge (leave the nest and begin to develop flight feathers). The time period after fledging, when young birds drop down from their nest and hide in low plants can be a dangerous one until they learn to fly. Males will often care for the first fledglings while the female incubates (or sits on) her next clutch (group) of eggs. Males often lead their young to roost (to rest or sleep) in trees with other males doing the same. Females will join the flock after all the fledglings have learned to fly. In fall and winter, American Robins are often seen in roaming flocks that search for food and roost in trees. In winter months, they are social birds, whereas during spring and summer, they pair off and become quite territorial.

What do American Robins eat?

American Robin, adult male, Image by Daniel Lee Brown

American Robins are often seen searching for food on the ground, especially in the spring and summer. They primarily eat earthworms when available and can be seen running, walking, or hopping on lawns to find them. Many perching birds that remain in trees most of the time simply hop from branch to branch. But hopping consumes more energy than running or walking. American Robins can do all three! Their strong legs help them pull worms out of the ground. They also eat insects (such as beetle grubs and caterpillars), berries, and other fruits. In some areas, it has been reported that American Robins will eat worms and insects in the morning and fruit in the afternoon. When insects become less plentiful in the fall and winter, American Robins gather in flocks in search of berries in wooded areas. Because they spend more time in trees in the wintertime, they are not seen as often as they are in the warmer months.

Researchers have found that American Robins have an “expandable” esophagus (the tubular area between the mouth and the stomach). This capability allows these birds to store food. The extra stored food may give robins more energy so that they can make it through cold nights. 

American Robin, Image by Ed Harper

What do American Robins sound like? 


The song of the American Robins has a beautiful melody having a series of slow whistling phrases. Their singing is heard before and after sunrise to attract mates or defend their territory. American Robins will also sing in the early evening. Their calls are used to communicate with each other. Their songs/calls have been described as a thrilled “whinny”, a “tup”, or a “cheerup cheerio cheerup” or a chuckling tuh-tuh-tuh-tuh sound. Listen to the American Robin now.

American Robin (Turdus migratorius), dawn song
Steve Hampton
American Robin (Turdus migratorius), call
Bruce Lagerquist
American Robin (Turdus migratorius), whinny call
Thomas G. Graves
American Robin (Turdus migratorius), alarm call
Bobby Wilcox
American Robin (Turdus migratorius), alarm call
Bruce Lagerquist
American Robin (Turdus migratorius), adult male singing
Thomas Magarian
American Robin (Turdus migratorius), song
bowtyler

These songs and calls of the American Robin are from xeno-canto. More American Robin vocalizations can be found at xeno-canto.org/species/Turdus-migratorius.

Meet the Purple Martin

Adult Male Purple Martin, Image by Daniel Lee Brown

This month, let’s talk about a fascinating bird called the Purple Martin (Progne subis). Purple Martins are the largest swallow found in North America. They are long-distance migrants, skilled and acrobatic flyers, and can reach speeds of up to 40 miles per hour. Along with other swallow species, Purple Martins share a flight pattern that is a combination of short glides and rapid flapping. 

There are three subspecies of Purple Martin that can be found in the United States: an eastern subspecies (Progne subis subis), a western subspecies (Progne subis arboricola), and a subspecies found in certain desert regions of the southwest (Progne subis hesperia).

Sadly, the Purple Martin is a species of special concern across the United States. In California’s Central Valley, there has been a drastic decline. According to research by Dan Ariola, “the Sacramento population declined by 88% between 2004 and 2019.” What has caused their decline? Increased competition for nesting sites and the increased use of pesticides are two theories. The non-native European Starling and the House Sparrow have taken over the nest sites of many native species including those of Purple Martin. The invaders not only took over Purple Martin nest sites in dead trees, but also their nest sites in tile roofs of urban buildings. The increased use of pesticides is believed to have caused additional declines by decreasing the available food supply for Purple Martins. Researchers have found that specific pesticides developed in the 1990’s, called neonicotinoids, are extremely detrimental to Purple Martins. Neonicotinoids kill the flying insects that Purple Martin rely on for food.

What do Purple Martins look like?

Adult Male and Female/Immature Male Purple Martins, Image by Chris Conard

Purple Martins have notched tails, broad chests, slightly hooked bills, and long pointed wings that almost reach to the end of their tails. Adult Female and male Purple Martins are different in coloration. Males have stunning dark blue feathers on their backs, abdomens, and heads. They have brownish-black wings and tails. Females have dark blue backs, areas of blue and whitish-gray on their heads, gray necks, grayish-white chests and abdomens, and dark brownish-gray undertail feathers. Purple Martins have an iridescent sheen (luminous colors that appear to change when viewed from different angles) which can appear as navy blue, green, or dark purple. First year males have blotchy purple blue heads, necks, and sometimes chests. First year females are similar to adult females; but the colors are less pronounced. Juvenile birds do not get their full adult plumage for two years. They are a dull brownish-gray, have stubby tails, and have yellow color inside their beaks. Hatchlings (or newborns that recently emerged from eggs) are featherless, have eyes shut, are pink-skinned, and totally dependent on their parents.

Where do Purple Martins live?

Male Purple Martin, Image by Rich Howard

After spending winters in South America (in Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, or Ecuador), Purple Martins annually begin northerly journeys to their nesting sites in Mexico, the United States, or Canada. They usually return to their previous nesting locations year after year. Often, Purple Martins will nest in groups or colonies. However, sometimes nesting locations will only have a small number of birds. Occasionally, a single nesting pair will nest alone.

Historically, Purple Martin nested in old woodpecker holes inside dead trees or in holes in cliffs near wetlands, swamps, and waterfronts in natural riparian locations. However, use of man-made housing by Purple Martin’s began long-ago. Prior to European settlers coming to North America, a few Native Americans tribes routinely hollowed out and hung up gourds so that Purple Martins would nest in their villages.

While some Purple Martins still nest in dead tree snags in Oregon, populations in the eastern United States, Washington state, and British Columbia use human-made nest boxes (or multi-chambered structures for several pairs) almost exclusively. In the City of Sacramento, Purple Martins are unique. They nest in weep holes under freeway bridges.

Adult Purple Martins are feeding a nestling that hangs from the bottom of a weep hole underneath Highway 50 in Sacramento. Image by Rich Howard

Both parents typically share in both nest building and caring for their young. Pairs make nests out of twigs, mud, plant stems, and grass. They line their nests with fresh leaves for the eggs to lie on. Females incubate the eggs (sitting on eggs to keep them warm) for the majority of time. Males also help with incubation. The fledglings leave the nest 26 -32 days after hatching. Even after leaving the nest, the parents will continue to care for the young birds for around one month.

Frequently, in late summer after the young birds fledge (or leave the nests), both young and adult Purple Martins will gather in colonial roosts (places that groups of birds go to rest and sleep). They will continue to stay in flocks after returning to their wintering grounds. 

If you’d liked to try to find Purple Martins in our area Sacramento Audubon recommends two locations. Please be aware that both locations are occasionally occupied by homeless encampments and use your best judgement when visiting these locations.

Purple Martins can generally be found in the following locations in and near downtown Sacramento:

Directions and more information can be found at www.sacramentoaudubon.org/city-of-sacramento/#sac-specialty.

What do Purple Martins eat?

Adult Male and Female/Immature Male Purple Martin, Image by Chris Conard

Purple Martins for the most part eat winged or aerial insects. They hunt for food over open habitat, often doing so in flocks or pairs. Because Purple Martins catch and eat flying insects when in flight, it saves a great deal of time when they are migrating to and from South America. Purple Martins eat flies, dragonflies, damselflies, butterflies, wasps, and bees, moths, beetles, fire ants, leafhoppers, cicadas, grasshoppers, crickets, and mayflies. Unseasonably harsh weather (cold temperatures or rain) lasting 3-4 days or more make it impossible for Purple Martins to find adequate food.

It has been reported that Purple Martins also eat spiders, However, only rarely do they come down to the ground to eat insects. They will come down to the ground occasionally to ingest a small amount of gritty matter or gravel which helps them digest the hard shells or exoskeletons that cover insects. Purple Martins drink water in flight by skimming the surface of lakes, ponds, and streams with their lower bills.

What do Purple Martins sound like?

Purple Martins are quite vocal and are frequently heard at dawn when they are flying. Their sounds are described as musical, chirps, buzzes, trills, rattles, gurgling, and whistles. 

Purple Martin (Progne subis hesperia), song, male and female adult
Scott Olmstead
Purple Martin (Progne subis hesperia), begging calls from nestlings
Scott Olmstead
Purple Martin (Progne subis), flight call
Bobby Wilcox
Purple Martin (Progne subis), song
Lance A. M. Benner
Purple Martin (Progne subis hesperia) , begging call of nestling
Scott Olmstead

These songs and calls of the Purple Martin are from xeno-canto. More Purple Martin vocalizations can be found at xeno-canto.org/species/Progne-subis.

Works Referenced

Meet the Ash-throated Flycatcher

Ash-throated Flycatcher, Image by Daniel Lee Brown

This month let’s learn about a bird in the flycatcher family called the Ash-throated Flycatcher (Myiarchus cinerascens). This species is common and widespread in the western regions of the United States. In the spring, Ash-throated Flycatchers migrate to find nesting sites in the western United States and in northern and central Mexico. In late summer or early fall, they migrate to western and eastern Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras. There are populations of Ash-throated Flycatchers that remain in specific locations year-round in southern California, Baja California, and Mexico. In the Sacramento area we see Ash-throated Flycatchers primarily in the summer. They migrate to our area in late April, nest, raise their young, and leave the area beginning in early September.

Ash-throated Flycatchers typically have an erect posture when perched on twigs or low branches and remain fairly still when perched. When they take flight, there is often a burst of cinnamon color seen on their wings and tails. The same subtle colors of the Ash-throated Flycatcher’s plumage (or feathers) are often seen in nature. This enables Ash-throated Flycatchers to be well camouflaged.

What do Ash-throated Flycatchers look like?

Ash-throated Flycatcher, Image by Mary Forrestal

Male and female Ash-throated Flycatchers look the same and are around 7.5 to 8.6 inches in length. Male Ash-throated Flycatchers are usually slightly larger than females. Ash-throated Flycatchers have olive-brown backs, dark brown heads, sometimes a light gray neck collar, brown wings with white wing bars, rust-colored wing edges, whitish-gray throats and chests, narrow bills, black feet, long tails, pale yellow bellies, and the area on the belly (near where the tail begins) is also a pale yellow. The tails of Ash-throated Flycatchers have streaks of rust and brown feathers. They have a slightly peaked crests (a group of projecting feathers) near the back of their crowns (or heads). Juveniles are similar to adults. They are somewhat paler except for their tails. The tails of juvenile birds have a greater amount of bold rust color compared to the tails of adults.

Where do Ash-throated Flycatchers live?

Ash-throated flycatcher, Image by Larry Hickey

Ash-throated Flycatchers are found in a wide variety of habitats. They are most often found in dry, open habitats such as lightly wooded forests along rivers or streams, dry scrubby deserts, and chaparrals. Ash-throated Flycatchers will sometimes nest in grassland areas if nesting sites are available. However, they usually will avoid mountains and dense forests. Ash-throated Flycatchers do not need to drink water because they are able to get ample water in the foods they eat. This is the reason they can survive in very dry regions with high summer temperatures. In the Sacramento Valley, they are found in foothill locations and in oak woodlands.

Because they are cavity (or hole) nesters, Ash-throated Flycatchers seek habitats that have standing dead trees. Because they do not make new cavities, they need to find pre-existing ones. Ash-throated Flycatchers will nest in abandoned woodpecker holes and occasionally cactus holes. Because it can be difficult to find nest sites in dead trees (or other natural sources), they will also nest in artificial structures such as nest boxes, pipes, mailboxes, metal frames, fence posts, hanging articles of clothing, and ledges under eaves. Both the male and female help with nest construction. Ash-throated Flycatchers make the cup-shaped nests from strips of bark, grasses, twigs, weeds, and small roots. The nests are lined with mammal hair and soft feathers. The female Ash-throated Flycatcher usually lays eggs soon after the nest is completed, often in May. She incubates the eggs (keeps the eggs warm by sitting on them) for approximately 15 days. In the meantime, the male defends the nesting territory, brings food to the female, and provides extra materials for inside the nest. When the chicks hatch, their eyes are closed and they are bare-skinned. Both parents care for the nestlings. The young will leave the nest about 14-17 days after hatching. Usually, an Ash-throated Flycatcher pair will raise one brood (or group of young) in a nesting season. Pairs located in the more southern areas of the nesting range may raise two broods. An Ash-throated Flycatcher’s nest is usually found no more than 20 feet off the ground, however some nests have been found as high up as 70 feet. Pairs will sometimes reuse the same cavity for the following season. 

What do Ash-throated Flycatchers eat?

Ash-throated Flycatcher, Image by Daniel Lee Brown

Ash-throated Flycatchers mainly eat insects and spiders. They help the environment by controlling insect populations and dispersing seeds. Ash-throated Flycatchers eat flies, larvae, bees, caterpillars, beetles, grasshoppers, moths, dragonflies, wasps, bugs, and sometimes cicadas. They will also eat fruit and berries, especially in winter. Rarely, they will eat small mammals and reptiles. 

When foraging (hunting for food), Ash-throated Flycatchers fly for short distances to grab insects or spiders on the ground or on leaves in the lower parts of trees and bushes. Unlike many other flycatcher species, they don’t usually return to the same perch after flying to catch food nor do they usually catch insects in mid-air. 

What do Ash-throated Flycatchers sound like?

The call of Ash-throated Flycatchers can be a useful identifier or clue to its presence. It is thought that one particular call sounds similar to an old-fashioned policeman’s whistle. Ash-throated Flycatcher calls have been described as sounding like: “ka-brick”, “burr”, “wheer”, “prrrt”, “pip”, and “zheep”. The song is a continuous but variable combination of their calls. You can listen now to Ash-throated Flycatcher calls and songs.

Ash-throated Flycatcher (Myiarchus cinerascens), call
Paul Marvin
Ash-throated Flycatcher (Myiarchus cinerascens), call
Jarrod Swackhamer
Ash-throated Flycatcher (Myiarchus cinerascens cinerascens), dawn song
Richard E. Webster
Ash-throated Flycatcher (Myiarchus cinerascens), dawn song
Ed Pandolfino
Ash-throated Flycatcher (Myiarchus cinerascens), alarm call while bird was being banded
Michael Morrison
Ash-throated Flycatcher (Myiarchus cinerascens cinerascens), call of two juveniles and one adult
Lauren Harter

These songs and calls of the Ash-throated Flycatcher are from xeno-canto. More Ash-throated Flycatcher vocalizations can be found at xeno-canto.org/species/Myiarchus-cinerascens.

Meet the California Towhee

Adult California Towhee, Image by Daniel Lee Brown

This month, let’s talk about a fairly common bird that is seen year-round in the Sacramento Valley, the California Towhee (Melozone crissalis). California Towhees are in the sparrow family. They are large, bulky, and non-migratory. In some regions, however, California Towhees will move from their low-land nesting areas to nearby foothill locations in late summer or fall. They are frequently spotted on the ground along roadsides or trails but are also seen in trees or on fences. California Towhees live in a variety of habitats and have adapted well to rural development and urbanization. Therefore, they are not only found in secluded natural habitats but also in urban and suburban yards. California Towhees are typically seen year-round in pairs due to their strong pair bond. The name towhee came about because its pronunciation is similar to that of a call made by another towhee species, the Eastern Towhee. Names created like this one are termed onomatopoeic (or imitative) names.

What do California Towhees look like?

California Towhee, Image by Craig Swolgaard

California Towhees are slightly smaller than American Robins. Male and female birds look alike; however the males are somewhat larger. California Towhees are mainly brown (or grayish-brown) overall, have thick bills, long tails, short wings, tiny dark spots in a broken ring pattern circling around their necks. They also have the characteristic orange-brown patches around their bills, under-tail feathers, and sometimes the face. The chests and abdomens of California Towhees are lighter in color and are mostly free of streaking. Juvenile birds look similar; but have faint wing bars and blurry, faint streaking on their chests.

Where do California Towhees live? 

California Towhees are found in southern Oregon, western and central California, and western Mexico. Occasionally they are seen in eastern California. Their habitats vary and can be fairly dry or moist regions. California Towhees live in areas with streamside thickets (dense bushes), shady underbrush, in riparian areas (areas along rivers), parks, brushy patches in open woodlands, chaparral regions (habitat having mainly tangled shrubs and thorny bushes), coastal sage scrub, and canyon bottoms. 

California Towhees build cup-shaped nests fairly low in bushes, vines, or small trees, typically 4-12 feet above the ground. The female builds the nest while the male watches over their territory. Poison oak is often used for nest sites. For the outside of their nests, female California Towhees weave together twigs, strips of bark, weeds, grass, dried flowers, and sometimes trash, such as plastic ribbons. Then the nest is lined with fine grass, rootlets, and animal hair. Female California Towhees lay 1–3 clutches (or groups of eggs) per year. While only the female incubates the eggs (sits on the eggs to keep them warm), both parents feed the nestlings. The young usually fledge (or leave) the nest about 8 days after hatching. Since the new fledglings are unable to fly, young birds will stay near their parents for several weeks. They begin to forage for food by themselves at 3 to 4 weeks old.

Because California Towhees are extremely protective of their nesting and food location sites, conflicts can happen with other pairs living close by. In addition, a California Towhee may endlessly peck or attack a reflection of themselves in a mirror or window thinking it is an actual rival. Covering the area may be the only way to get them to stop this behavior. 

What do California Towhees eat?

California Towhee, Image by Larry Hickey

Seventy percent of the food eaten by California Towhees is found on the ground. California Towhees eat a variety of both weed and grass seeds. Their thick beaks make it easy to crack seeds. They also sometimes eat waste grain. They eat the berries of native plants including those of coffeeberry, elderberry, and poison oak. California Towhees will also eat edibles from the home garden such as stone fruits, lettuce, and peas. During the nesting season, California Towhees will eat live foods such as beetles, crickets, grasshoppers, caterpillars, spiders, and snails. Parents feed their young mainly insects. When foraging for food (looking for food) under leaves on the ground, they often use a double-scratching technique where they jump forward and then quickly jump backward. Edible morsels that pop up after this disturbance are quickly caught and consumed. When eating grass seeds, California Towhees hold onto a stem and strip the seeds off all at once with their beaks. In some parts of California they depend on native berries and/or cattle troughs for sources of water during the hot summer months.

What do California Towhees sound like?

California Towhees make a variety of sounds. One of their more distinctive calls has been described as a bright chip, a sharp ringing note, a loud metallic chip, a seet or seek, a tsip, a tink, and a chink. They also have a call that has been described as a thin tseeee. 

The song of the California Towhee has been described as “a series of high-pitched notes” or “squeaky chips followed by an accelerating trill”. Pairs often call to each other (in duets) using a series of squealing sounds. Song patterns vary as to geographical area. You can listen to the California Towhee below.

California Towhee (Melozone crissalis), song
Ed Pandolfino
California Towhee (Melozone crissalis), song
Paul Marvin
California Towhee (Melozone crissalis), song
Paul Marvin
California Towhee (Melozone crissalis), call
Steve Hampton
California Towhee (Melozone crissalis), pair calling
Paul Marvin

These songs and calls of the California Towhee are from xeno-canto. More California Towhee vocalizations can be found at xeno-canto.org/species/Melozone-crissalis.

Meet the Snow Goose

Adult Snow Goose, Image by Daniel Lee Brown

This month let’s learn about another fascinating bird called the Snow Goose (Anser caerulescens). Snow Geese are one of the most abundant waterfowl in North America. They begin nesting in late spring or summer in the arctic tundra (the extreme northern regions of Alaska, Canada, Greenland, and Russia) where it can be icy cold in winter and trees never grow due to environmental conditions. In the fall, Snow Geese migrate south to the United States using one of the four major North American flyways (or bird migration routes). They travel as far south as Mexico. Snow Geese, like many other species of birds, migrate to where there is more food in the winter. Although the Snow Goose population is extremely large in the United States in the winter, Snow Geese only gather in specific habitats in each region. Some of the best places to see Snow Geese in our area are the National Wildlife Refuges: Gray Lodge, Colusa, and Sacramento.

Snow Geese usually walk on the ground (or wade in shallow water) for several hours a day to search for food. They sleep sitting on land, standing on one leg, or even while swimming.

Around March, Snow Geese head north again for spring migration. They usually fly in groups of at least two dozen birds; but often gather into flocks of several hundred thousand birds! Snow Geese flocks fly in a U pattern or a “messy” line formation. Traveling in flocks offers birds greater protection from predators and increases their success rate for finding food sources. During migration, Snow Geese travel for long distances and will fly over the same routes and stop in the same places they have used historically.

Snow Geese are divided into two subspecies: greater and lesser. In fall, the lesser subspecies (A. c. caerulescens) migrate to several regions in the United States. In contrast, Greater Snow Geese (A. c. atlantica) only migrate to areas close to the eastern U.S. coastline. In the Sacramento Valley, the Lesser Snow Goose is the subspecies that’s usually seen.

What do Snow Geese look like?

Adult Snow Goose, Image by Daniel Lee Brown

Male and female Snow Geese look alike; but females are often smaller than males. Lesser Snow Geese have variations in plumage (or feather) color. The color pattern seen most often in the Sacramento Valley is the light- or white-morph. Light-morph Snow Geese are mostly white, have thick long necks, pink legs, pink feet, and pinkish-orange bills. The Snow Goose’s bill has a horizontal black streak running along the bottom half which is referred to as the grin patch. The ‘grin patch’ is a very helpful tool used to identify this species. Snow Geese also have black wingtips (a group of wing feathers called primaries). Their black primaries tend to be more noticeable in flight. Frequently Snow Geese will have orange-stained faces and heads caused by iron in the soil where they forage (or search) for food. Juvenile white-morph Snow Geese are partially white. They have black primaries, dark bills, and grayish-brown smudges on their heads, necks, and wings.

Adult Snow Geese: blue-morph on left, and white-morph on right, Image by Daniel Lee Brown

The second color form of the Lesser Snow Goose is the dark- or blue-morph. These darker birds are seen less often in the Sacramento Valley. The blue-morph Lesser Snow Geese have dark-brown or dark slate-gray bodies, white heads, and a variable amount of gray and white on the underside. Birds with this darker coloration also have the characteristic ‘grin patch’. Juvenile “blue morphs” have an overall dark-brown plumage and have dark bills and legs.

The Greater Snow Geese subspecies, found along the eastern coast of the United States, rarely has any color variations like lesser Snow Geese do.

Where do Snow Geese live?

Adult Snow Geese: a blue-morph along with several white-morph, Image by Mary Forrestal

Usually around late May or June, Snow Geese build their nests in the arctic tundra along shallow rivers, on small islands with surrounding shallow lakes, in low grasses, or among Arctic willows. They often nest in colonies (groups of animals or plants living close together). Pairs generally will remain together for life and begin to nest when they reach 3 years old. Female Snow Geese lay eggs once per year and choose the nest sites. Female birds also build nests in a shallow depressions on the ground among grasses, rocks, shrubs. They use grasses, leaves, twigs, or seaweed to make the base of the nest. Then the nest is lined with the females’ own down feathers. Some sources say male feathers are also used. Female Snow Geese tend to choose sites which are slightly elevated so there is better visibility to spot potential predators. Males stand guard while the females spend most of their time incubating the eggs (keeping eggs warm by sitting on them). Females incubate their eggs for 22 to 25 days and don't consume much food during this period. A few hours after hatching, the goslings (or baby geese) will quickly leave the nest. They immediately start feeding themselves while their parents watch over them. Family groups can walk for hours searching for food. The young will start to fly in about 40-50 days; but often remain near the family until they are about 2-3 years old.

When they migrate south in the fall, Snow Geese are found in wetlands or agricultural fields, such as plowed cornfields. They can also be found in or near lakes, bays, ponds, and coastal salt marshes.

What do Snow Geese eat?

Adult Snow Goose, Image by Daniel Lee Brown

Snow Geese are mainly vegetarians and eat grass, water plants, shrubs, seeds, stems, horsetails, and willows. Because their diet consists mainly of plant life and they are fairly large birds, Snow Geese must spend a long time each day foraging for food in order to eat enough to survive. They dig up roots, shoots, and tubers in muddy fields and marshes and will consume nearly any part of a plant. Snow Geese have serrated (having a saw-like or jagged edge) bills and tongues that help them cut and tear the strong marsh plants. In the winter, Snow Geese will eat the waste grains found in plowed agricultural fields. Goslings may eat flowers, fruits, plant shoots, and insect larvae.

What do Snow Geese sound like?

Snow Geese are extremely vocal and can be heard about a mile away. Their call has been described as hoarse, nasal, or honking. Researchers think that the continuous calling of geese flocks in flight helps to maintain the organized pattern or formation of the flock. You can listen to Snow Geese now. 

Snow Goose (Anser caerulescens), flight call
Peter Ward and Ken Hall
Snow Goose (Anser caerulescens), flock calling
Thomas Magarian
Snow Goose (Chen caerulescens), flock calling mostly on ground
Thomas G. Graves
Snow Goose (Anser caerulescens), call, individual calling
Sunny Tseng
Snow Goose (Anser caerulescens), on a reservoir with Ross's Geese mixed in
Sue Riffe

These calls of the Snow Goose are from xeno-canto. More Snow Goose vocalizations can be found at xeno-canto.org/species/Anser-caerulescens.

Great Backyard Bird Count for Kids

Sacramento Audubon Society is partnering with State Parks and Effie Yeaw to host a Great Backyard Bird Count for Kids on February 17th and 18th. The Great Backyard Bird Count is an opportunity for people all over the world to contribute to our scientific understanding of bird populations by recording the birds found in their neighborhood. On Saturday, February 17th, we will contribute to the Great Backyard Bird Count at the Folsom Powerhouse State Historic Park, located on the shores of Lake Natoma in historic Folsom. On Sunday, February 18th, our count will move to Effie Yeaw Nature Center, farther downstream along the American River.

Dates and locations:

  • February 17th at Folsom Powerhouse SHP (9980 Greenback Ln, Folsom, CA)

  • February 18th at Effie Yeaw Nature Center (2850 San Lorenzo Way, Carmichael, CA)

Time: 9am - 1pm  (volunteers are asked to arrive at 8:30)

Ages: 7+ (children must be accompanied by an adult the whole count)

Please bring: Your kids or borrow someone else's, warm layers in case of chilly weather or rain, sturdy shoes, binoculars if you have them (or borrow some from us), a bagged lunch, and your observational skills for spotting birds!

What to Expect: Start the count day by borrowing a pair of binoculars and learning how to use them during a binocular boot camp. We will then have a quick chat about why it's important to count birds, before splitting into small groups and exploring along the trail. Adults are expected to bird alongside their kids and each group will have an experienced bird leader to help identify what we find. After counting, we will gather back together for lunch and short presentations from each group to share their findings. 

Young birders over the age of 7 and their beginner or experienced level adults are all welcome to join. Parking at the Folsom Powerhouse SHP is $10 for the day or covered with an annual State Parks pass. Parking at Effie Yeaw is $7 per car, payable at the entrance. Both locations have easily accessible options for flat, paved trails, as well as ADA parking. Please let us know of any accessibility requirements when you register.

Registration: Registration is required. Please complete a separate registration for each child that wishes to attend. Registration is limited to the first 20 children registered for each location. If your child is one of the first 20 registered you will receive a confirmation email from folsomlake@ports-ca.us. All others will receive an email informing them they have been added to the waitlist. Click the button below to register.

for the Great Backyard Bird Count for Kids

Interested in volunteering?  Email Nicole.

For more information about the GBBC and other ways to participate, visit birdcount.org.

An Acorn Woodpecker is one of the birds we hope to see and add to our counts. Image by Ray Rozema.

Meet the Red-breasted Sapsucker

Adult Red-breasted Sapsucker, Image by Kevin Thomas

This month let’s learn about a colorful woodpecker called the Red-breasted Sapsucker (Sphyrapicus ruber). Why are some woodpeckers named ‘sapsuckers’? It’s because sap is an important food source for sapsuckers; while other woodpeckers don't eat sap. Red-breasted Sapsuckers are closely related to both the Red-naped and the Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers. They were all considered to be the same species prior to 1983.

While some populations of Red-breasted Sapsuckers live in the same location year-round, others migrate (or change locations depending on the availability of food or the season). They will move to lower elevations or coastal regions to locate edible food when temperatures drop cold enough to freeze the sap.

In the Sacramento area, Red-breasted Sapsuckers are seen from late September through March. Look for these birds as they cling against tree trunks in their quest for food. Like other woodpeckers, Red-breasted Sapsuckers use a flight style that is referred to as undulating which is a combination of flapping and gliding. One source describes this type of flight as: “alternating a burst of wing flaps that make the birds rise, followed by a gentle descent with their wings tucked close to their bodies.” In the spring, the Red-breasted Sapsuckers wintering in the Sacramento Valley will migrate to their nesting region outside our local area.

What do Red-breasted Sapsuckers look like? 

Adult Red-breasted Sapsucker, Image by Daniel Lee Brown

Red-breasted Sapsuckers are similar in size to an American Robin. Adult birds have completely red heads and chests. They have chisel-shaped bills, white rumps, black backs with lightly-colored spots, black tails with white barring, and black wings with a white patch running lengthwise. The area that is between the nostril and the eye, called the lore, is also bright white. Red-breasted Sapsuckers have white or light-yellow bellies with dark streaks on the sides. Female and male birds look similar; but some sources say that females have less red and more white. Juvenile Red-breasted Sapsuckers either have no red or very little red. Their head and chest are brown and have brownish-black backs and wings. Their wings have white patches similar to adult birds. 

Where do Red-breasted Sapsuckers live?

Adult Red-breasted Sapsucker, Image by Kevin Thomas

Red-breasted Sapsuckers are found in the western regions of Canada, Alaska, Washington, Oregon, California, and the western tip of Mexico. They nest in the far western portions of Canada, Alaska, Oregon, and Washington, and northeastern California.

Red-breasted Sapsuckers are cavity nesters which means they nest inside tree holes. They frequently nest in mixed forests with both coniferous and deciduous trees. Red-breasted Sapsuckers seek dead tree snags (sharp, jagged projections) to drill nest cavities in. The cavities are often 50-60 feet high. Red-breasted Sapsucker pairs will drill out several cavities each nesting season. Afterwards, they pick one of these cavities to be their nest site. Whereas their nest cavity may be in the same tree as the previous year, Red-breasted Sapsuckers will not reuse old cavities. They usually only nest once per year. The entrance holes of their cavities are just large enough for the parent birds. This prevents most predators from entering. Red-breasted Sapsuckers can be quite territorial (or protective) of the area around their nest and are extremely dedicated parents. Both parents are active in the incubation of eggs (keeping the eggs warm by sitting on the eggs) and help raise and feed their young. The nestlings are fed every seven minutes for six days after hatching! Other nearby Red-breasted Sapsucker adults without nestlings of their own may help to feed the young. The nestlings are fed spiders, caterpillars, flies, sap, and fruit. The young leave the nest 23-28 days after hatching and their parents continue to feed them for about 10 days. Young birds are shown by the adults how to obtain and consume sap.

Horizontally-patterned tree wells made by a Red-breasted Sucker, Image by Jane Van Kessel

What do Red-breasted Sapsuckers eat?

As previously mentioned, the Red-breasted Sapsucker’s primary diet is tree sap. They consume a certain type of sap called phloem which has a high sugar and amino acid content. In search of sap, Red-breasted Sapsuckers drill shallow holes or wells in the trunks of a variety of tree species, such as aspen, cedar, pine, birch, or maple. They return to the same wells periodically to feed on the sap as it slowly oozes out. It is interesting to note that sapsuckers in general do not suck the sap out of tree wells, like their name implies. They simply lick or collect sap with their brush-like tongues. Red-breasted Sapsuckers will also conveniently eat insects that are attracted to the sap. Their entire bodies cling to tree trunks while they drill for sap or look to find insects in tree crevices (or narrow openings). Red-breasted Sapsuckers have stiff tail feathers that help brace their bodies close to tree trunks. They can also securely hold onto surfaces because their feet have strong claws, with two toes facing forward and two toes facing backwards. Besides sap, Red-breasted Sapsuckers eat spiders, caterpillars, berries, fruits, and tree cambium (the slender plant membrane located under the bark of a woody tree or plant). They sometimes will also catch insects in mid-air. Mammals, insects, and other birds benefit by feasting on the sap and trapped insects that are inside the tree wells made by sapsuckers. 

What do Red-breasted Sapsuckers sound like?

Red-breasted Sapsucker calls have been described as a ‘mew’, ‘cheer’, ‘weep weep', ‘waa', or a ‘nasal squealing’ sound. One additional call is a chatter-like sound. Their bill-drumming sound has an irregular cadence (or beat) and has slower beats toward the end.

Like most bird species, Red-breasted Sapsuckers use their calls to establish territory or to find a mate. All species of sapsuckers tend to be quieter in the winter.

You can listen to the calls of Red-breasted Sapsuckers now. 

Red-breasted Sapsucker (Sphyrapicus ruber), call
Kristie Nelson
Red-breasted Sapsucker (Sphyrapicus ruber ruber), three birds calling
Brent Beach
Red-breasted Sapsucker (Sphyrapicus ruber), alarm call
Thomas G. Graves
Red-breasted Sapsucker (Sphyrapicus ruber), begging hatchings or nestlings
Bobby Wilcox
Red-breasted Sapsucker (Sphyrapicus ruber), intermittent drumming
Paul Marvin

These calls of the Red-breasted Sapsucker are from xeno-canto. More Red-breasted Sapsucker vocalizations can be found at xeno-canto.org/species/Sphyrapicus-ruber.

Meet the Bufflehead

Male Bufflehead, Image by Ray Rozema

This month let’s learn about the smallest diving duck found in North America, the Bufflehead. Buffleheads were given this name because the male Bufflehead’s puffy head is similar in shape to that of a buffalo’s head. Buffleheads are excellent swimmers, both on the surface and underwater. In addition, they are one of the fastest waterfowl. They have very fast wingbeats and can travel up to 48 miles per hour! When Buffleheads are swimming in the water, they can take flight quickly, unlike other diving ducks.

Buffleheads can be found in the Sacramento region from late summer to early spring. They are migratory birds (birds that travel to different areas depending on the season) and usually fly at night. The spring migration for Bufflehead starts in April or May. Their destination is either Alaska or Canada, where they claim their nest sites. After the nesting season is over, Buffleheads again take flight for their fall migration and head for warmer regions. They spend their winters in the United States, Mexico, or the western coast of Canada. Buffleheads are related to and are in the same family (Bucephala) as goldeneyes.

What do Buffleheads look like?

Male bufflehead, Image by Ray Rozema

Buffleheads have a compact shape, short wings, tiny bills, and fairly large heads. However, the males and females look quite different from each other. Male Buffleheads are slightly larger and have a large white patch that starts behind the eyes and wraps over the top of their head from cheek to cheek. The rest of their head can appear black. At certain times, however, this dark area on their heads and necks is shimmery purple and green! This is because the feathers in this area are iridescent (having glossy and luminous colors that seem to change when seen from different angles). The bodies of male Buffleheads are mostly black and white which makes them very noticeable due to the contrasting colors. Males also have large white wing patches on black wings, have gray underwings, and their legs and feet are tannish-pink.

In contrast, Female Buffleheads have dark brown heads, grayish-brown wings and backs, grayish-brown flanks or sides, gray feet and legs, and pale undersides. They have a small, white patch behind their eyes and a small, white patch on their wings. Juvenile males resemble adult females for about one year after birth.

In the summer, the male Bufflehead leaves the nest site and the female must care for the nestlings alone. This is a period of time when males molt (to lose old feathers and replace with new feathers). Male Buffleheads lose their colorful breeding plumage (or feathers) and temporarily look more like females. This temporary plumage change is called eclipse plumage. Having less color during this time makes it easier to hide from predators. This is fortunate because there is a three-week period during molting when male Buffleheads are unable to fly.

Where do Buffleheads live?

Buffleheads, Image by Daniel Lee Brown

Buffleheads are found in lakes, harbors, flooded wetlands, estuaries, reservoirs, slow-moving rivers, and sheltered bays. In the winter, Buffleheads live in protected coastal areas or open inland waters. During nesting season, Buffleheads prefer to find nest sites that are located in small wooded lakes and ponds in aspen groves or mixed (coniferous and deciduous) forests.

Buffleheads are tree cavity nesters (or “hole-nesting”) ducks. Each year, the nest site is chosen by the female. The site may be the same as was used for the previous nesting season. Nests are usually 2-10 feet above ground; but they can be much higher. It is quite interesting that Buffleheads actually look for old nesting cavities of a specific woodpecker, the Northern Flicker, to nest in. Because Buffleheads are very small ducks, they are able to fit into these small Northern Flicker holes and hopefully stay safe from larger predators that aren't able to enter the hole. They will sometimes nest in old Pileated Woodpecker nest cavities or nest boxes. The Bufflehead female makes only one improvement to the woodpecker hole. She lines the inside of the hole with her own down feathers. The female lays eggs once a year. She will incubate the eggs (or sit on and keep the eggs warm) for approximately one month. 1-2 days after hatching, the mother encourages the nestlings to jump out of the cavity. The mother will then lead her young directly to a body of water. At first, very young ducklings will simply dabble at the water’s surface to locate food. With their mother protecting and guiding them, young ducklings very quickly learn how to dive and find food underwater by themselves. This takes place in just a few days! Young birds will take flight approximately 50-55 days after hatching. In two years time, these young Buffleheads will be ready to prepare their own nest sites.

What do Buffleheads eat?

Male Bufflehead, Image by Daniel Lee Brown

The diet of Buffleheads varies by both season and their habitat. They are very active ducks and seem to be constantly diving in search of food. Not only do they find their food underwater, they also eat their food while still submerged. Buffleheads eat aquatic (water) insects, mollusks (especially snails and clams), crustaceans, and occasionally small fish. They also eat underwater plant matter in the fall, such as the seeds from pond weeds and bulrushes. Buffleheads are found either in pairs or small groups of no more than ten. Some researchers have witnessed a few Bufflehead in each group watching for predators while the others are actively diving for food. Another report, however, said that all members of a small group can be diving at the same time.

Male bufflehead, Image by Daniel Lee Brown

What do Buffleheads sound like?

The female’s Bufflehead’s call is known to be a barking, croaking, “throaty” cluck, or hoarse quack. The male’s call is a high-pitched squeal, squeaky whistle, or occasional growl. However, Buffleheads are frequently silent. You can listen to Buffleheads now.

Bufflehead (Bucephala albeola)
Dugan Maynard
Bufflehead (Bucephala albeola), female
Andrew Spencer
Bufflehead (Bucephala albeola), female and immature male
Paul Driver
Bufflehead (Bucephala albeola), alarm call
Denise Wight
Bufflehead (Bucephala albeola), male display sound
Paul Driver

These calls of the Bufflehead are from xeno-canto. More Bufflehead vocalizations can be found at xeno-canto.org/species/Bucephala-albeola.

The Pacific Flyway

Multitudes of Snow Geese spend their winters in the Sacramento Area, migrating along the Pacific Flyway from their Artic breeding grounds. Image by Daniel Lee Brown.

Each year in late summer and fall billions of migrating birds travel south along the Pacific Flyway. They travel 1,000s of miles from breeding grounds to wintering grounds to find food, mates, and more hospitable conditions. They cover seemingly impossible distances stopping to rest in wetlands, forests, and even neighborhoods (maybe yours) all along their route.

The Pacific Flyway is one of four regional flyways in the United States. It extends from Alaska down to South America all along the Pacific coast. It is 10,000 nautical miles long and reaches inland to the Rocky Mountains. Some birds travel nearly the entire distance. The Olive-sided Flycatcher travels up to 7,000 miles between its breeding grounds in Northern British Columbia to its southern wintering grounds in South America. Others such as Snow Geese only travel a portion of the flyway. Some of them stopping in the Sacramento Area to spend the winter.

Some Rufous Hummingbirds travel nearly 3,000 miles along the Pacific Flyway, traveling between British Columbia and Mexico. Image by Ray Rozema.

Not all migrating birds use a flyway or the same flyway in spring and fall. Some songbirds travel one route going south and another when heading north. Waterfowl (ducks, geese, and swans), however, tend to use the same flyway year after year. They use these routes because of the wetland habitats located along the flyway. Here they stop, rest, and find partners for the next breeding season.

Sadly, these wetland areas are in jeopardy. In California, 90% of historic natural wetlands are gone due to human development or intervention. Instead, waterfowl now largely rely on flooded rice fields, National Wildlife Refuges, State Wildlife Areas, and privately managed lands.

You Can Help

  • Support those organizations that support this wetland habitat: the National Audubon Society, the Pacific Flyway Council, and the Central Valley Joint Venture are just a few. Read more about the work of these organizations here.

  • Buy a Duck Stamp. 98% of the purchase price of each stamp goes directly to help acquire and protect wetland habitat.

  • Share your love of these birds with others. There are many wonderful places in the the Sacramento Area to visit during the winter. Cosumnes River Preserve, Yolo Bypass Area, and Gray Lodge Wildlife Area are just a few of the wonderful places to see many of the migrating waterfowl.

A Few of the Pacific Flyway Birds

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Meet the Bushtit

Male Bushtit, Image by Chris Conard

This month, let’s talk about a very active songbird that's often seen in the Sacramento area called the Bushtit. The name Bushtit is derived from the Old Icelandic “titr” which means something small. Bushtits are one of the smallest bird species in North America. They are related to chickadees and titmice, and are similar in size to kinglets. Their range includes the southernmost part of western Canada, the western U.S., Mexico, and Guatemala. Bushtits don’t usually migrate (or change their location according to season). They usually stay in the same area year-round. However, Bushtit populations that stay in higher elevations in the summer months may move down to a lower elevation for the winter. Occasionally, they may travel a bit further to locate a warmer winter area. 

Bushtits do not seem all that concerned when there are humans standing nearby. When searching for food, they seem to be preoccupied and in constant motion. Bushtits are social birds and form flocks of 10-40 birds or more after their nesting season is over. On cold nights, a Bushtit flock sometimes will huddle together to share body heat. Bushtits help keep their flock together by using sound. They continuously call out to each other as they travel. When a flock flies into an area, the group quickly begins to search for food. Soon they will take flight again, in single file, to investigate another tree or location. Bushtit flocks will repeat this foraging technique over-and-over throughout the day. Sometimes birds from other species, such as warblers, kinglets, or chickadees, join Bushtits in search of food and water. When birds form a large group, there is a greater success rate in finding ideal locations that offer ample food for all the participants. This is also a way to have safety in numbers.

What do Bushtits look like?

Female Bushtit, Image by Chris Conard

Bushtits are plain and tiny birds about 3 inches in length. They are brown and gray on top and have slightly lighter, grayish-white, breasts. Bushtits have round bodies, short pointed bills, short necks, long tails that seem to drag in flight, and relatively large heads. Males and female birds look similar except that males have dark eyes and females have light-colored (or golden) eyes. 

There are geographical differences in coloration and markings in Bushtit populations. Here in the interior valley and foothills, Bushtits have gray heads and brown ear patches. Those living near the coast have brown heads. Some male Bushtits found in the south (in Texas, Arizona, and Mexico, for example) have a blackish cheek area that resembles a mask. 

Where do Bushtits live?

Bushtits live in a variety of habitats. They are found in open woodlands, forests, scrub or sagebrush habitats, riparian areas (areas situated near banks of a river), suburban parks, and residential gardens. Bushtits are not commonly found in high mountainous areas or in the hot desert regions of the West.

Bushtit near nest, Image by Larry Hickey

Bushtits will produce 1-2 clutches (groups of eggs) per year. Both parents help to weave very unique, hanging nests, up to a foot in length, that are constructed out of spider webs, twigs, rootlets, grass, moss, and leaves. Bushtit nests may take up to a month or more to build and are at various heights; but the nests are often low enough to visualize. Spider web is used to hold the grassy structure together. An entrance hole is located on the side of the nest, near the top. The nest is lined with soft and insulating material such as fur, cushiony plant material, and feathers. Bushtits will often attempt to camouflage their nests by placing leaves or other plant materials around the outside. Both parents usually sleep inside the nest with their eggs or young birds at night. In addition, both parents will incubate the eggs (keep the eggs warm using close contact), care for, and feed their young. Bushtits aren’t territorial towards other Bushtits or even with other bird species. Sometimes, a few additional adult Bushtits (usually males) help the parents care for the nestlings and are welcome to sleep inside the nest too! Young birds (fledglings) will leave the nest about 14-18 days after hatching.

Bushtits, Image by Mary Forrestal

What do Bushtits eat?

Bushtits are omnivores meaning they will eat both animal and plant based foods. They mainly eat spiders and insects, such as aphids, scale, leafhoppers, caterpillars, larvae, beetles, wasps, and ants. However, in cooler weather when live food is difficult to find, Bushtits will eat berries, fruits, and seeds. They will occasionally come to seed feeders or to seed that has been scattered on the ground. Because Bushtits are small and nimble birds that can easily hang upside-down on twigs, they find it easy to search for insects or spiders that are hiding on the underside of leaves or pine needles. Larger bird species usually search on the tops of foliage when they forage (search) for live food. In the cold winter months, Bushtits’ rate of body heat loss is high and they must consume about 80% of their body weight per day in order to not lose weight!

What do Bushtits sound like?

Bushtits have several calls. Some sources feel that Bushtits have songs and other think they only have calls. They frequently use various short and simple contact sounds (or calls) to communicate. Bushtits use different calls for different occasions such as: “It’s time to move to another spot; you should follow me”. They also may use a certain call for perhaps: “ Beware! There's a large raptor overhead”. The calls made by Bushtits have been described as high-pitched buzzing chips, loud chattering notes, soft chips and twitters, and as being scratchy or wispy. Listen to the Bushtits now below:

American Bushtit (Psaltriparus minimus), call or song?
Ted Floyd
American Bushtit (Psaltriparus minimus), call
Thomas Magarian
American Bushtit (Psaltriparus minimus), call, single bird
Paul Marvin
American Bushtit (Psaltriparus minimus), alarm call, call, other species follow
Paul Marvin
American Bushtit (Psaltriparus minimus), call, flight call, alarm call
Ted Floyd
American Bushtit (Psaltriparus minimus), flock of around 10 birds calling
Paul Marvin

These songs and calls of the Bushtit are from xeno-canto. More Bushtit vocalizations can be found at xeno-canto.org/species/Psaltriparus-minimus.

Birdbath Tips: Help Wild Birds by Creating a Clean Water Source in your Yard

Bushtit, Image by Mary Forrestal

When a wild bird visits your yard, clean water to drink and to bathe in is a welcome sight. Even though some birds obtain a small amount of water from the insects or fruits they eat, most wild birds will search for fresh water to drink. You can help wild birds find water by setting up a birdbath in your yard! Experts say that supplying fresh water for wild birds is a lot more important than supplying them with seed or other foods. Wild birds use birdbaths to drink water, cool themselves, bathe, and to remove parasites (organisms that live in or on an organism of another species and benefit by deriving nutrients at the other's expense). Climate change may make summers hotter and longer in the future; so wild birds and other wildlife will benefit when there is clean water available in our yards!

Setting Up a Birdbath 

Orange-crowned Warbler, Image by Daniel Lee Brown

Many birdbaths used today are often made out of cement. However, cement is a very difficult surface to clean due to all the nooks and crannies present. In addition, Cement birdbaths are also frequently made too deep and will often crack in freezing temperatures. Basins made of hard plastic are a better choice because they are easier to clean, don't break if they fall, and don't usually crack in cold weather. You can either purchase a birdbath or make your own.

You can make a birdbath at home by using a 2 inch deep, shallow basin (or round container), such as a garbage can lid, old frying pan, cake pan, or a flower-pot saucer that’s used to collect draining water. Avoid flimsy or lightweight basins that will blow over in the wind. A heavy rock can be used to anchor down a basin. Here are some additional tips on having a birdbath in your yard:

  1. Choose a shady or partially shady site so that the water stays cool and birds can cool off. Water that’s in a shady location will evaporate slower and will stay fresher longer. Bushes or trees should be close by so that birds using the birdbath can find shelter quickly when necessary.

  2. The water in the basin should only be 1-2 inches deep. Shallow water will give young birds more confidence to drink from your birdbath when venturing out their own.

  3. Empty and replace the water every 1-2 days.

  4. A rock that’s positioned slightly higher than the water’s surface can be placed inside the basin. This will offer a solid surface and will help wild birds feel more secure. Gravel or sand can be added to the bottom of the birdbath so that the surface isn’t slippery. 

  5. Your birdbath should be positioned as close to the ground as possible. Birds naturally drink water from puddles on the ground. It‘s also nice to position the birdbath where you can see the birds.

  6. You may want to purchase a device for your birdbath to keep the water moving or agitated (like a bubbling fountain). The sight and sound of moving water will attract more birds to your birdbath. A birdbath with moving water is less likely to be used by mosquitoes for egg laying since mosquitoes lay their eggs in still or stagnant water. There are also birdbath heaters available that prevent the water from freezing in the winter.

Anna’s Hummingbird, Image by Gesna Clarke

Keeping your Birdbath Clean

Neglecting your birdbath may cause more harm than good. Birds need both fresh water and a clean birdbath. Dirty birdbaths can harbor harmful bacteria and spread viruses. Birds are more attracted to birdbaths with clean surfaces too. Here’s how to go about cleaning your birdbath:

  1. Pour out the old water from the basin.

  2. Rinse the basin off with a hose.

  3. Scrub the basin with a wire brush using a solution of one part vinegar and nine parts water. Let the solution soak inside the basin for several minutes. Avoid using household cleansers because they may adversely affect the essential oils that are naturally on birds’ feathers.

  4. Empty out the solution inside the basin and thoroughly rinse the basin with a hose.

  5. Allow the basin to dry. Then return it to its location in your yard and fill it with water.

Anna’s Hummingbird, Image by Gesna Clarke

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Meet the Double-crested Cormorant

Adult Double-crested Cormorant, Image by Ray Rozema

This month, let’s talk about a bird that’s often seen around the Sacramento Valley near bodies of water, the Double-crested Cormorant. Double-crested Cormorant is the most widespread and common cormorant species in North America. Cormorants are active during the daytime (or diurnal). You may find Double-crested Cormorants along with herons, geese, and ducks; but they are not closely related to them. Bird experts have placed cormorants in a separate bird family or group. Double-crested Cormorants are found in Alaska, the continental United States, Mexico, Caribbean Islands, and Central America. Many nest along coastlines; but they also nest inland where there is a body of water nearby. While some Double-crested Cormorants live in California’s Central Valley year-round, many populations are migratory. Large flocks will migrate in a messy V formation and frequently winter along the Pacific, Atlantic, and Gulf coasts. 

Double-crested Cormorants may be seen swimming alone and often will swim in open water areas, such as the middle of a lake. They are also seen in small or large sized flocks when both nesting and feeding. It can be easier to observe Double-crested Cormorants out of water because sometimes only their necks and heads are visible when they swim. They often will perch with their wings outstretched. Double-crested Cormorants do this to dry their feathers. Unlike duck feathers, their feathers are not fully waterproof. However, it has been suggested that not having waterproof feathers is a benefit for Double-crested Cormorants. Their wet feathers make them very fast and agile when they chase prey underwater.

There have been times in U.S. history when the population of Double-crested Cormorants has decreased to very low numbers. In the 1920’s, Double-crested Cormorants were killed and generally disliked. It was thought that they consumed too many fish. The population of Double-crested Cormorants also declined when the pesticide DDT was used in the 1960’s. In addition, the species has been negatively affected by oil spills and the exposure to other types of water contamination. After the use of DDT ended and the U.S. government made laws to protect wild birds, Double-crested Cormorants began to thrive again. Their numbers are now continuing to increase markedly. However, some fishing industries currently blame Double-crested Cormorants for depleting fish populations. Huge flocks can suddenly fly in and congregate at fish hatcheries or near commercial fishing areas. Studies have shown that a single cormorant can eat 1.5 pounds of fish per day. In a few regions, it is also believed that Double-crested Cormorants may be crowding out other colonial birds, such as herons. However, many scientists believe Double-crested Cormorants do not cause the negative impact that some people think to be the case. These scientists feel that the species is being treated unfairly or cruelly once again. 

What do Double-crested Cormorants look like?

Double-crested Cormorants, Image by Daniel Lee Brown

Double-crested Cormorants are in-between the size of a crow and a goose and have a wingspan of about four feet. Both males and females look alike; however, male birds are usually slightly larger. Adult Double-crested Cormorants have black (or brownish-black) feathers and in certain lighting they have a greenish or bronze sheen. They have a yellow-orange area of bare skin on their faces and throats (called the gular area) which extends to the lores (the facial area on birds that’s in front of their eyes and next to their bills). They have teal (or aquamarine) colored eyes and the lining inside their mouths is also a bright blue color. Double-crested Cormorants have long bodies, wedge-shaped tails, small heads, relatively short legs and wings, and slender bills. Their long necks frequently appear to be bent or s-shaped. When double-crested cormorants fly, they pull their necks inwards creating a bent neck appearance. The necks of other cormorant species in the western U.S. appear straight during flight. 

As the nesting season approaches, adult Double-crested Cormorants develop a curled, double crest of feathers on their heads. Their crests of white or black feathers (crest feather color is specific to each subspecies) stick out away from their heads and curve backwards, making them very unique-looking birds. Double-crested Cormorants also develop blue eyelids and their throat area turns deep orange during this time. Some people describe them as being ‘prehistoric’ looking. 

Juvenile (or immature) Double-crested Cormorants have pale necks and spotted white (or pale-gray) upper chests. Their backs, wings, and tails are brown. Juveniles also have a yellow bare skin area on their faces.

Double Crested Cormorant, Image by Mary Forrestal

Where do Double-crested Cormorants live?

Double-crested Cormorants are very adaptable and live in many types of water habitats, either in fresh or saltwater. They are found near rivers, ponds, reservoirs, swamps, lakes, and in coastal areas. Double-crested Cormorants require water for feeding and sturdy perches to rest or dry off, such as rocks, dead tree tops, or docks.

Double-crested Cormorants form nesting colonies between May and July. They nest in trees or shrubs that are frequently near or in water, on sea cliffs, on platforms, among flooded logs, or on the ground where there are no sturdy trees. Pairs work together to repair an old nest or to build a new one. Usually it’s the male that brings in materials for nest building and the female does the nest construction. The simply-constructed nests are 1.5 to 3 feet in diameter and are made out of sticks and plant material. It is reported that Double-crested Cormorants will use pieces of trash when constructing their nests. Both parents will sit on the eggs to keep them warm (or incubate the eggs). After hatching, both parents feed the young and bring water to them using their bills.

Double-crested Cormorants parents frequently will use their bodies to shield the eggs or their young from the sun, since their nests are not normally under cover. The young leave the nest 3-4 weeks after birth, learn to fly at about 5-6 weeks of age, and are completely independent when they reach about 9-10 weeks of age. They will start nesting when they are around 2-3 years of age.

What do Double-crested Cormorants eat?

Double-crested Cormorant, Image by Daniel Lee Brown

Double-crested Cormorants are carnivorous (or flesh-eating). They mainly eat fish and hunt by swimming and diving. Double-crested Cormorants are very skillful at catching their prey when they dive into water. They use their wings for steering and their powerful webbed feet to quickly propel their bodies underwater. Double-crested Cormorants will also eat insects, crayfish, crabs, shrimp, frogs, salamanders, and eels. Occasionally they will eat plant material and snakes. Because the tips of their upper bills are shaped like a hook, it is easy for them to catch and manipulate their prey for eating. Double-crested Cormorants generally eat smaller fish underwater; but they bring larger fish up out of the water prior to eating them. They actually flip fish into the air and then swallow them head first!

What do Double-crested Cormorants sound like?

Double-crested Cormorants are often silent. However, they do use calls to communicate with each other. Their calls are described as hoarse, bull-frog-like grunting sounds. 

Double-crested Cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus), call
Bruce Lagerquist
Double-crested Cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus), a few birds calling
Paul Marvin
Double-crested Cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus), individual calling and splashing
Paul Marvin
Double-crested Cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus), juvenile calling
Paul Marvin
Double-crested Cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus), several birds calling
Paul Driver
Double-crested Cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus), wing noise or wing whistle
J.R. Rigby

These calls of the Double-crested Cormorant are from xeno-canto. More Double-crested Cormorant vocalizations can be found at xeno-canto.org/species/Nannopterum-auritum.

Mather Lake at Sunrise - Cormorants in the top of the trees, Image by Daniel Lee Brown