Leucistic Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Leucistic Ruby-throated Hummingbird photographed in Waukesha County on September, 18 2013. Leucistic Ruby-throated Hummingbird Binomial name: Archilochus colubris Category: Hummingbirds What is Leucism?  Leucism is an uncommon condition in birds.  This condition is caused by a genetic mutation which prevents pigments, particularly melanin, from being deposited evenly in the bird’s … Continue reading

Western Sandpiper

Western Sandpiper at Bradford Beach, Milwaukee, WI.  Photographs taken September 11, 2013. Western Sandpiper Binomial name: Calidris mauri Category: Sandpipers, Phalaropes, and Allies Description: Brown feathers on back with white underparts.  Dark legs and bill. Size: 5.5” – 6.7” long, 10.2” – 14.6” wingspan Weight: 0.8 oz. – 1.2 oz. … Continue reading

Ruby-throated Hummingbird on Royal Catchfly

I had another opportunity to photograph the Ruby-throated Hummingbird in my backyard, this time enjoying Royal Catchfly (Silene regia).  As I mentioned in my last post on this fascinating species (Ruby-throated Hummingbird on Bee Balm), these hummingbirds favor red tubular flowers most of all.  Royal Catchfly, a native of Missouri, … Continue reading

Red-headed Woodpeckers nesting and raising young in the South Kettle Moraine near Eagle Wisconsin May 2012

I came across a pair of Red-headed Woodpeckers in the South Kettle Moraine near Eagle Wisconsin. It appeared they were setting their sights on a dead oak tree, a place to raise young this year. I watched this pair for almost 2 months and almost daily. I started observing them … Continue reading