I had to check out the visiting Summer Tanager mid-morning that was being reported at the Wehr Nature Center. I’m glad I did because the bird put on a great show. The male Summer Tanager ate many bees while I was present along with a few other birders and photographers. It was usually on the lookout for bees while sitting in a tree or at times hung around the beehive present there waiting for bees to come in or out of the hive. It even grabbed a few bees right out of the hole in the hive while I was there. The bird is more of a southern species which the normal range is north to southern Illinois but we do see a couple every year here in Wisconsin. Stunning and colorful bird even on a gray gloomy day! Thanks to Carol for getting the word out. Images were taken on April 28, 2016.
Summer Tanager
Binomial name: Piranga rubra
Category: Piranga Tanagers and Allies
Size: 7.75” long, 12” wing span
Weight: 1 oz
Grabbing a bee!
Got the bee!
Just waiting for a bee…
Back view
Beautiful shots Jim. I may try for this bird tomorrow. Was it a the headquarters building?
Holy cow! All the rarities go to Milwaukee. Beautiful bird.
What a gorgeous feathered friend. Thanks for bringing him to us.
When I see a Tanager I know Spring is here. Thanks as always!
Great shots of a beautiful bird. Thanks, Jim!
Beautiful! I had one visit my yard today!