WFB2300A: Ornithology Field Journal 3

Date: March 7, 2024
Start Time: 4:00 PM
End Time: 5:00 PM
Location: Centennial Woods, Vermont
Weather: Partially cloudy, Cool temperature, 52°F, light breeze from the northwest
Habitat: Mixed Forest: Red Spruce, Balsam Fir, Eastern White Pine, Red Maple, Sugar Maple, Northern Red Oak, Paper birch, Yellow Birch

As I walked through the forest of Centennial Woods, I noticed that my birdcall identification has vastly improved compared to the beginning of the semester. I can now confidently recognize and identify various species without having to see the bird. For example, I could hear the cheerful cheerio cheeri-e cheerio cheeri-e of an American Robin, somewhere above me in the forest. Although I couldn’t see the bird, I captured an audio recording of the American Robin’s call.
The warmer spring temperatures allowed me to observe a couple of other species, such as a Northern Cardinal and a Tufted Titmouse. I listened to a call from a Northern Cardinal. When I returned, I conducted some research and learned that the specific call I heard was a “chip” call which is used in response to territorial invasions, when predators approach nests, and when excited. When comparing the plumage of the Northern cardinal and Tufted Titmouse, it is easy to recognize the differences in coloration between species. Looking into the differences in coloration a bit deeper, the Tufted Titmouse's muted gray and white plumage provides effective camouflage in woodlands, aiding in foraging and predator avoidance, while the Northern Cardinal's vibrant red coloration, helps to attract mates which contributes to increased reproductive success. The plumage of both species helps increase the relative species’ fitness, given their character traits. As I observed the individual birds, I noticed that the Northern Cardinal decided to rest while the Tufted Titmouse began to engage in foraging activities. These behaviors seem on par with what I imagine the rhythm of the birds' day to be.
When I came across a small foraging flock of chickadees I attempted to solicit some “pish” calls to attract their attention. However, I quickly learned that the effectiveness of "pishing" to alter bird behavior relies on the individual's ability to produce a convincing enough sound to mimic alarm or distress calls. Unfortunately, when I attempted the “phish” call, the small foraging flock of chickadees was driven away.

Posted on March 8, 2024 03:25 PM by bwells02