Eastern Kingbird | May 17, 2009 |
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The eastern kingbird is my favorite among the flycatchers, because it's the easiest to identify. Anyone who has paused over the minimal differences between phoebe, peewee, and least flycatcher will know what I mean.
The black and white kingbird is the only flycatcher to have a band of white at the end of its tail. What a relief!
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The white band shouts, "Kingbird!"
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Once anyone understands the band, it's easy to identify a kingbird even if the band isn't particularly visible.
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The above eastern kingbird in flight looks rather different, with a fine underwing pattern.
Photo note: I used a Pentax *ist D, with the SMC 1000mm reflex lens, on May 2006, 2007, and 2008, respectively, for the three pictures. The merry month of May seems to be my best time for kingbird photos. |