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Birding/Ruby-crowned Kinglet

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Expert: Julia Booth - 2/28/2008


Question

Ruby-crowned Kinglet
I took this photo of a ruby-crowned kinglet in Golden Gate Park one day some weeks ago. Unfortunately the bird came out a little fuzzy in the photo but I'm told they do not show this red crown very often. Is this a rare shot even if a fuzzy one?

Answer
Too bad the picture is fuzzy. Yes, it's rare that he reveals his red patch, although more likely now that mating season is here. He usually shows it when he is excited or threatened. Given the time of year, I'm assuming it was the latter.

I should note that such photos can still be very useful. I am actually a photographer by trade, but I often keep even shots that came out poorly if they can be used for identification purposes. This is obviously a Ruby-Crowned Kinglet -no denying.

Good catch and happy birding.

Julia
    Questioner's Rating
    Rating(1-10)Knowledgeability = 10Clarity of Response = 10Politeness = 10
    CommentThank you for your quick response. I was following the little bird so I guess he deceided to show me his tough side, eh?


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Julia Booth

Expertise

I can answer questions about bird identification (by sight or sound), behavior, distribution, population, conservation, mating, nesting, fledging and feeding. I do have some practical knowledge about foreign species, but identification skills are limited in that arena. Bear in mind that as much as I know, it's possible that at least some of you will ask a question that I am unable to answer. At which point I would direct you to wherever or whomever I thought could provide you with that information.

Experience

I have 15 years birding experience in Southern California.

Organizations
Audubon Society

Education/Credentials
My education is in art and photography -but I have a substantial portfolio of nature related work.

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