Western Screech Nest Found in Urban Birder’s Yard

We have been seeing these Western Screech Owls in our trees for several years.  I was certain that they were nesting here, but was  unable to include them in my Cornel Nest Watch count because I could not find the nest.  As my husband was gardening this after noon and guess what he saw in the Bird Condo (see earlier Post)?

 

The Western Screech

Found at the Birds Nest B&B

 

 

 

We have seen 2 pairs of Black-bellied Whistling Ducks in the same tree and are expecting the Green Parakeets soon.  As well, our Yellow-Crested Night Heron have put in a big showing with sightings of 4, possibly 5.

Fall Stragglers and a Little Awesomeness

Start off with the neighboring Chachalacas

Sandhill Cranes – we saw them by the flocks this year, huge numbers.

Eastern Bluebird

Scissor-tail

Carolina Chickadee – taken at Christmas in East TX.

Tit-Mouse

Annual Fledging of the Black-bellies!

We have had the pleasure to witness fledging whistling ducks for many years; it never ceases to astound me.  

This is urban birding at its most baffling, defiant best!

The tree with the cavitites that the ducks nest in every year.

The only egress/exit from our property is the small space under this gate, onto this very busy street.

There is no other way out of our yard, as you can see.

But every year, they come and nest and we seldom miss the fledging.  And every year, like clock work, or the endless turning of stars across the sky, the parents round them up (typically within 24 hours or less) and herd them out to the nearest watering hole, god only knows where that is in a city this size.

And every year I wish them salud, and say fairwell until next year!

Cheeky Little Kiskadee!

Watch here for Crested Herons, Ducks, & Parrots

Watch for upcoming news and photos of fledging and nesting nocturnal Yellow-crested Night Herons and the Black-bellied Whistling Ducks, formerly known as Tree Ducks. 

as well as news of a potential pair of nesting red crowned parrots!