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Birding/What kind of bird is this ?

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Expert: Julia Booth - 3/29/2009


Question

Sit and watch
We have seen these for more than a week now. They act like Phoebes. Males hanging out with females nearby. They love the rear view mirrors of my pick up. They are not fearful of humans

Answer
It's a male, Western Bluebird.

They're fairly tame. They like mealworms and berries. They're attracted to reflective surfaces, during breeding season, because they think it's another bird, horning in on their territory. Brighter colored birds seem to engage in this behavior more.

You've probably got a nest near by. Look for a hole or a crack. They are cavity nesters.

Have a nice day!

Julia
    Questioner's Rating
    Rating(1-10)Knowledgeability = 10Clarity of Response = 10Politeness = 10
    CommentI got a quick answer and she seems to be right on. I noticed the birds hanging in a purple martan apartment I made a long time ago. Good to see it being used.


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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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