Gray Catbird

While they certainly are not uncommon, I have only ever seen a catbird on our property once or twice. And I use the term seen loosely, for most often one encounters them as in the first shot. The second shot is one of several I got yesterday morning when it presented itself decently for once. Gray Catbirds are mimics, though their repertoire is not as extensive as the Brown Thrasher or Northern Mockingbird. Still, they make some cacophonous and alluring noises. I have photographed them once or twice before, but at a considerable distance. And they seldom expose themselves to open areas, preferring open woods or brushy areas. Anyway, another nemesis bites the dust.

Great captures Al, I'm envious of the 2nd image. I have a small area of open woods right next to my house and each year a couple of these birds reside there. Numerous times I've walked out the back door to my shop to see one of them sitting in the wide open. I go back for my camera and it will have moved to the trees and 99% covered by foliage when I return.
When I do see them in the open it seems to be early morning or late evening. And honestly, I know very little about these guys but enjoy hearing them and someday I may get a photo of something besides sticks and leaves.

Grizz1 wrote in post #18356528
Great captures Al, I'm envious of the 2nd image. I have a small area of open woods right next to my house and each year a couple of these birds reside there. Numerous times I've walked out the back door to my shop to see one of them sitting in the wide open. I go back for my camera and it will have moved to the trees and 99% covered by foliage when I return.
When I do see them in the open it seems to be early morning or late evening. And honestly, I know very little about these guys but enjoy hearing them and someday I may get a photo of something besides sticks and leaves.

You tell it like it is, Steve; they are extremely furtive. Thanks for commenting and good luck with your quest.

Remember seeing these as a boy in extreme northern Illinois. Quite common as I recall, and believe it was always around a huge shrub. So, as you say, usually "buried ". Haven't spotted any here in Peoria area and so on the bucket list.
Nice shots and bit of dialog of this guy, Al.

ardeekay wrote in post #18358250
Remember seeing these as a boy in extreme northern Illinois. Quite common as I recall, and believe it was always around a huge shrub. So, as you say, usually "buried ". Haven't spotted any here in Peoria area and so on the bucket list.
Nice shots and bit of dialog of this guy, Al.

Thank you, Rog.

I love these guys- they are great fun to watch and often keep me company while I wait for a pileated to fly by or an eagle to come home to feed the eaglets

What a score on that second shot Al!
Mike

CaptBob wrote in post #18362613
I love these guys- they are great fun to watch and often keep me company while I wait for a pileated to fly by or an eagle to come home to feed the eaglets

grendel64 wrote in post #18363093
What a score on that second shot Al!
Mike

Thank you for commenting, guys; I appreciate it.