The Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park NM USA

Winter birding is continuing to be excellent. Today northern winds brought in flocks of wood warblers, even an unexpected Orange-crowned Warbler very unusual for December. Our regular winter visitors are in great numbers. Colourful, Western Bluebirds in groups of 20+.      

Western Bluebird

The predator and the prey

Ruby-crowned Kinglet are being hunted by Loggerhead Shrike, quite a dramatic scene to observe. The Shrike chasing the flock

s of tiny birds. Wait for the next photograph, I have not actually seen a capture, although I know the screenplay, the prey has to be caught in the bill of the Shrike and then impaled on a thorn of bush or cactus.

Falcon and Hawks are well represented at the park, these prey on the Quail and Thrushes there are also many sparrows and finches feeding on the abundance of natural seeds. 

Cooper's Hawk                             © Richard Anderton

Gambel's Quail                      © Richard Anderton

Ruby-crowned Kinglet      © Richard Anderton

                                                            

As Rio Grande's water recedes due to seasonal reduction. Fish are trapped in remaining ponds, making food easily available for Heron and Egret. 

Can anyone find the Cattle Egret among the group of Great Blue Heron and Snowy Egret?