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Bob Snyder | profile | all galleries >> Galleries >> Disputes among the 'snow birds' tree view | thumbnails | slideshow

Disputes among the 'snow birds'

Dark-eyed Juncos are often called 'snow birds' because they first arrive around the feeding stations in significant numbers with the first snow storm. The small, dark birds are regarded affectionately by birders and non-birders alike, and are not considered to be aggressive by the casual observer. However, like other birds, disputes will arise over who gets to utilize the food source. I watched this morning (December 20, 2009) as several birds challenged and defended feeding rights to the walnut pieces, peanuts, sunflower hearts and white millet, I had spread on the snow-covered driveway, in view from my dinning room window. I watched and photographed several interactions today, and edited this tale together with representative images from those encounters. I made these images with a Nikon D200 camera and Nikon 80-200mm f2.8 AF zoom lens.
Most of us tend to view juncos as gentle harbringers of snow.
Most of us tend to view juncos as gentle harbringers of snow.		 The bird on the left is a challenger, and just flew in for seeds.
The bird on the left is a challenger, and just flew in for seeds.		 While the lower bird is preparing to feed, the dominant bird approaches,
While the lower bird is preparing to feed, the dominant bird approaches,		 and challenges the intruder.
and challenges the intruder.
The newcomer returns the challenge...
The newcomer returns the challenge...		 both birds are now displaying to each other and moving for advantage.
both birds are now displaying to each other and moving for advantage.		 The challenger appears to be backing down a bit, taking a more subdued position
The challenger appears to be backing down a bit, taking a more subdued position		 The dominant bird now crouches low in an attack posture
The dominant bird now crouches low in an attack posture
In some cases, the challenger may beat a quick departure,
In some cases, the challenger may beat a quick departure,		 or, as in this case, may need to be chased,
or, as in this case, may need to be chased,		 or given a good flogging!
or given a good flogging!

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