You may remember the common redpoll I saw that turned out to be a hoary.
Saturday, with that error firmly in mind and determined not to make it again, I saw a hoary redpoll. That turned out to be a common.
If you’re confused, you’re not alone. But while both photos are too fuzzy even for the cover of the Rolling Stone (not to mention National Geographic), they’re clear enough to see the differences.
Hoary on the left; common on the right
I got one slightly sharper shot, but it doesn’t show any of the defining characteristics, like the red patch on the head. Bird watching is hard work.
I avert my gaze . . .
Ah! I see the difference. The hoary redpoll is wearing a Covid mask! Thoughtful of him….
Jim T – 🙂 Although they don’t do social distancing very well, travelling in packs/flocks.
Very clear differentiation. I just love looking at your bird photos.
Judith – That works out well then, since I love taking them. 🙂 Even through the back window these days . . .
Spring is coming. The vaccines are coming. Soon we will be as free as the birds. How much more grateful we will be for this long hibernation.
Laurna – I know Spring and vaccines are coming. I hope a greater appreciation of our (renewed) freedom comes with them.