Chirps and Cheeps

Thrushes abounded at Stiglmeier Park today. I finally found my very first Veery (and then some!) and I spotted many individuals of at least one or two other thrush species as well: a Swainson's Thrush and most probably a Hermit Thrush.

Today also brought my FOY Red-eyed Vireo and Scarlet Tanagers. The first tanager was a gorgeous male who sang heartily. Later, I enjoyed watching a female catch her lunch.

Warblers were scarce; I only found Yellow, Yellow-rumped, and Black-throated Green warblers.

A hummingbird darted into view and was quickly gone. Luckily, I was able to grab a photo of it, which shows a black throat. It's a Ruby-throated Hummingbird, however; the lighting is such that the coloring isn't properly reflected. As an FYI: we don't have any other species of hummingbirds in our WNY region - only the Ruby-throated.

On my way out of the park, I saw a lone Killdeer in the grass by the parking area.  For some reason, I love these little guys and their squeaky, shrill voices.