TGIF

Happy Friday everyone! Spring is in full swing and rising temperatures and rain have awakened the Earth. I have a few photos to share from this week. First is a shot of a bird that is new to me. The male Rose-breasted Grosbeak, boldly patterned in black, white, and rose/red, is easily identified. The brown, striped female, is more of a challenge to identify. It looks similar to a large sparrow. A common bird of forests and second growth, the grosbeak's song is like that of the robin, but seems mellower and more sweetly melodic. I got this shot at a bird feeder where I work.

Description
* Medium-sized, stocky songbird.
* Large, thick, pale, cone-shaped bill.
* White flash in wings in flight.
* Male distinctive with black hood, red chest, and white belly.
* Size: 7-8 in
* Wingspan: 11-13 in
* Weight: 1.38-1.73 ounces

Sex Differences

Male strikingly colored, with black back and hood, red chest, white rump and belly. Female streaked brown and white.
Sound

Song a slow, rich warble, like a robin that has taken singing lessons. Call a sharp "squeak," like a sneaker on a gym floor.


Painting update:
Molly Stage 6