8 replies to this topic

[JimUSNY]

another one I give up on, I was thinking maybe acadian which would be a lifer photowise anyway

[The Sego Sago Kid]

Nice photo! Too bad I can't help identify. Is there any way to do so visually with these little buggers?

[TheBillyPilgrim]

Bill looks too small for Acadian. I'd go with either Least or Yellow-bellied, but not comfortable making the distinction here.

[JimUSNY]

thanks.. Im glad its not only me it may just be a least.. didnt look like the yellow bellieds i have seen over at this spot, but maybe its a juvy if it is

[Indybirder]

Looks like a Least. Not near enough yellow-olive on the belly and throat for Yellow-bellied.

[psweet]

Agree with Indybirder -- a Yellow-bellied would show more yellow on the throat. Also, the yellow on the belly is quite bright, suggesting new feathers. Least sometimes start molting before migration, Yellow-bellied typically not until after migration. So if he's already molting, that's another mark for Least.

[cestma]

I always love the exceedingly helpful info psweet throws in! Now if only I could remember it.

Sweet pic, Jim!

[psweet]

It's taken me 30 years to get to the point where I can remember where in the books to look for that info -- keep at it, you'll get there.

[cestma]

It's taken me 30 years to get to the point where I can remember where in the books to look for that info -- keep at it, you'll get there.

I'm definitely in awe of your diligence & experience! I've been appreciating your expertise for quite a while, first at Grrrl Scientist's blogs before I found WhatBird.

And the last time you mentioned Pyle, I looked up those books. Wow. Sorta wish I could find a way to justify having them, but realize I'm nowhere near that skill level yet, if I ever get there at all. Meanwhile I'm just gleaning what I can from you. You've already explained the distinctly yellow breast feathers I noticed on a phoebe juvie a few weeks ago...

Many thanks for always throwing in that little (or sometimes not so little) bit extra!