I have not had a favourite bird since I was a boy, but....

 

 

 

The elusive Yellow Breasted Chat can be seen just visible through the dense vegetation. Later caught in full view for a few tantalizing seconds as it sings a brief chorus before diving away into the undergrowth. Sometimes, performing a remarkable flight first flying straight up and parachuting down, only to repeat the disappearance act once again. Then on Friday despite strong winds this male was determined to sing and could be seen and heard, truly a magnificent creature.  I have not had a favourite bird since I was a small boy, but this charismatic bird has won the title. At Mesilla State Park

 

This week from the 18^th the migrations are culminating and many summer residents are present. On Monday agile Lesser Nighthawk could be observed skimming the bushes weaving to-and-fro chasing after air bourn insects. A truly delightful sight.

Sadly the Rio Grande has no water and very last remains of the precious fluid could be found on Tuesday. Mallard stand forlorn near the last pool of water.

 

The magnificent Blue Grosbeak below is also here. Males when not singing are busy fighting each other