Wednesday, November 29, 2017

Phainopepla






Some birds are approachable while others fly away on sight.

The Phainopepla is one bird that lets you get closer, providing you respect his space.

(pronounced fay-no-PEP-la
from the Greek "shining robe')



This gleaming red-eyed black bird of the southwestern deserts seems fearless, though he may only be curious about your presence.





A dark black bird in a hot sunny environment may look out of place, but they are a fixture in the Sonoran Desert.





The lighter colored female Phainopepla, also with a red eye, is equally approachable.






This 1st year male was attracted to a water fountain. His juvenile feathers are starting to turn black, while orange eyes shift to red.




Adult males display a brilliant flash of under wing white as they fly. The white is hidden at rest.




When most birds flee your approach, it's welcoming to come upon a fearless Phainopepla in the treetops.

It's another reward for walking in the desert.

Allan

Credits: Cornell Lab of Ornithology, All About Birds
The Sibley's Guide to Birds



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