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Northern mockingbird

Mimus polyglottos

Photo by Aaron_G
Published on Project Noah
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36.1524, -95.9904

Field Notes

Description:

The Northern Mockingbird is a medium-sized mimid that has long legs and tail. Male and female look alike. Its upper parts are colored gray, while its underparts have a white or whitish-gray color. It has parallel wing bars on the half of the wings connected near the white patch giving it a distinctive appearance in flight. The black central rectrices and typical white lateral rectrices are also noticeable in flight. The iris is usually a light green-yellow or a yellow, but there have been instances of an orange color. The bill is black with a brownish black appearance at the base. The juvenile appearance is marked by its streaks on its back, distinguished spots and streaks on its chest, and a gray or grayish-green iris. (information from Wikipedia)

Habitat:

City park

Notes:

This northern mockingbird was one of two that were attracted by a termite swarm. They collected as many as their beaks could hold, flew off (presumably to feed chicks), and returned to gather more.

Species ID Suggestions

Comments (4)

Amazing pictures! I've never been able to get that close, and they are pretty common in my neighborhood. I have seen some just sit and make many noises, like they're showing off, for long periods of time.
Glad I could provide some clear shots of a mockingbird for both of you. They are quite common in my area and are very active. I call them the "car alarm birds" for the incredible array of noises they make. :-)
Thanks Aaron.., first time I've seen the mockingbird. It's lovely pictures aswell.
So that's what a mockingbird looks like! I've heard about them but I never even saw a pic. Cool looking bird! Thanks Aaron.

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