Expert: Julia Booth - 4/15/2008

Question
I live in Calgary, Alberta. I often hear a bird call (especially in spring) with a
distinct sound. There is one high note, lasting just under a second, then two
lower notes, each half the duration of the first. Any idea what bird this is? Links
to sound files would be appreciated.

Answer
Okay, I have to be honest. I am not an expert on Canadian birds. We share many of the same species, however.

Based on your description, it could be any number of birds -like 30 or 40.

Here is where I would begin, were I in your situation.

I would obtain a checklist of birds that live in my exact geographic location. (http://www.camacdonald.com/birding/caalberta.htm is a good site about Alberta birding.)

I would then consider a few things:

What time of day do I hear this? (Rule out birds that sing at all hours like the Mockingbird, The Loon, The Yellow Breated Chat -and noctural birds like Whipoorwhils and Owls)

What time of year do I hear this? (You said Spring, so whatever it is, it's a species that breed and is probably a year round resident in your area -so that narrows it down some from winter and summer migrants)

Where did I hear this bird? (Was it UP in a tree or down on the ground? Was it close to water etc?)

What do I know that is ISN'T? (Once you've obtained the checklist, start crossing of any birds that you know that it can't be.)

This is what I do when I have very little to go on. ENature.com provides excellent sound bytes of North American bird species. Once you narrow it down, go there and start listening to them.

Sorry, I couldn't help you more,

Julia