The Crossbill returns

[fotodan]

My crossbill returned yesterday for the 3rd time in a week. The first and second time he showed up he was alone. This time he brought a little friend with him. Just got my 300 4L today, and I really hope they retrun just one more time. They are not much for perches, they go right for the feeder and stay there about 1/2 hour, then gone..

[canonloader]

Do they manage to open those sunflower seed? Very cool looking bird, but seems like quite a specialist.

[fotodan]

The male doesnt seem to have much trouble mitch, but I did notice that he will hold the opened seed and then the female will take it from his bill..

[canonloader]

Well, it's coming on to mating season. A lot of birds do that same thing. :)

[fotodan]

Well, it's coming on to mating season. A lot of birds do that same thing. :)


Could be. I was suprised that he was here twice before bringing her to the seeds. He comes every other day, not 2 days in a row..

[bromm]

Nice shots Dan.


Mitch they are specialized for opening coniferous cones. When you approach a flock in the top of a spruce tree it sounds like 20 squirrels chewing:D. They act like a parrot and stand on one foot while holding a cone with the other to pick the seeds out of the cone.

[fotodan]

Thanks Trevor. I am going to keep a eye out for him to see how long they sty here before heading back home.

[rathke]

Specialized seed eaters. That bill is cool. They are usually found working on pine cones. The mating ritual is neat. Good shots and thanks!

[canonloader]

I knew about the pine cones. :)

That's why I asked if they had any trouble opening a plain seed. :)