Birdtography

Every year around this time, a little yellow bird pays a visit to my backyard. At first glance, you might think it’s an American goldfinch. However, take a closer look. Notice the black, pointed bill and the rounded body? The American goldfinch has a cone-shaped bill designed for eating seeds, so this bird is not an American goldfinch; it’s a Pine Warbler.

Both birds have wing bars, but the goldfinch’s wings are darker in color. In terms of coloration, the Pine Warbler has an olive-colored back. Adult male Pine Warblers are the brightest, while females and immature birds are duller and may appear gray-brown. I believe this is a male Pine Warbler, and I like to think it’s the same bird that returns to visit my backyard each year.

Look closely at those yellow birds in your backyard, maybe you will find an imposter too!

Check out high-res image of the Pine warbler on my Flickr site.