To spot juvenile Robins, look for spots

 

About the time of year, fledgling American Robins (just out of the nest)

American Robin fledgling

are apt to appear in backyard birdbaths. The male parent is usually in charge of fledglings. Fledglings have to be taught how to fly well, bathe, where to find food, finding safety etc.- how to be birds. They’re the same size as adults, but can be recognized by black speckles on their orange/red breasts, which they outgrow in 3 or 4 weeks.

 

 

 

Painted Bunting- female

Dull plumage     Many female birds have an adaptation allowing them to sit on a nest and take care of nestlings in relative peace. Their more muted coloration helps conceal the females and their eggs from predators.  The different plumages of male & female Buntings and Cardinals are excellent examples.

 

OWEN YOST, in addition to being a blogger, is a licensed Landscape Architect emeritus who has lived and worked in north Texas for over 30 years. He is the recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award of the Native Plant Society of Texas, and is a member of the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA), International Federation of Landscape Architects, National Wildlife Federation and the Audubon Society. His office is at Yost87@charter.net in Denton.