Crossbills

Have you ever stumbled upon a bird you've never seen before then thought it's probably been around all along....you just didn't notice?
Today while walking along a local footpath I had a crossbill swoop in and land by my feet, then fly up into a conifer along the trail... the tree was alive with them. There were so many that the branches were swaying with their feeding activity. I can't believe I've never come across them before.
Needless to say, I filled my flash card up before heading back home. Such a cool bird, and brazen, too! No fear of me, that's for sure. Here are a few of my fave shots....

Nice series. I like the last one the best.

amazing shots, the color is stunning.

Gorgeous shots, awesome colors

Nice, crisp shots, Mike, I love the last 2. We had a few a couple of winters ago, right in the middle of winter, and that's the only time I've ever seen any. And you're so right, they swoop in and are very social.

Boy I like that last one! Nice work!

These are some great shots, Mike, and in some great light too. Apparently the white-winged crossbill's bills are adapted more to spruce cones, where you found them, rather than the larger pine cones favored by red crossbills. Great job!
Al

Great photos. I like the last the best also as it shows the most.
Your shots are nice and sharp with beautiful colors

CDMOOSE wrote in post #15259530
These are some great shots, Mike, and in some great light too. Apparently the white-winged crossbill's bills are adapted more to spruce cones, where you found them, rather than the larger pine cones favored by red crossbills. Great job!
Al

And they say you can't teach an old dog new tricks....thanks for the info Al!
Thanks to all who posted!
Mike

Way to go, Mike! And what excellent shots. Colours are beautiful.

Stunning colors and great perspectives!

I'd like to stumble like that. Good work.
Rex

Excellent set Mike! I've never seen one also, I was told there are many of them in Cypress, which is about 40 minutes drive away from me.