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.
