Category Archives: Birds
Dunlin
The word dunlin is a dialect form of dunling, the earliest name for this species, first used in the early 1530s. “Dun” means dull brown and “ling” indicates the person or thing has the given trait. Indeed, dunlins (Calidris alpina) … Continue reading
Breeding Spotted Sandpiper
Spotted sandpipers (Actitis macularius) are the most widespread breeding sandpiper in North America. Monotypic, during the mating season spotted sandpipers have bold spots on their breasts, lighter yellow legs and bills that are mostly yellow to orange. This spotted sandpiper … Continue reading
Posted in Birds
Tagged Actitis macularius, spotted sandpiper
Comments Off on Breeding Spotted Sandpiper
Willet Tussle
Willet (Tringa semipalmata) males loudly defend their nesting and feeding territories with a ritualized walk along their territorial boundaries. This protective behavior can escalate into physical attacks. Leonard and I were walking on the shore of Elkins Pond #4 at … Continue reading
Intelligent Raven
As I noted in a previous post (Raven Antics 05-04-20), common ravens (Corvis corax) and other members of the Corvid Family are noted for their intelligence, adaptability, and mischievous natures. The raven with a distinctive call, sounding as though it … Continue reading
The Nature Niche 