Female Evening Grosbeak

Such a treat to have the chance to see a wonderful pair of Evening Grosbeaks a couple of days ago! After botanizing Janel Butler's farm, we called in at a beautiful private acreage belonging to the Handfields - they had so kindly allowed us to botanize their land last year). These two acreages are west of Millarville, south west of Calgary. I think this shot shows the female better than one that I took of her perched in a tree, so will post this photo first and then will add the other image soon. If I remember correctly, i've only ever had the chance once before to see these beautiful birds. Just look at the size of that beak, LOL!

All the fresh air, heat and bright sunlight that I've been exposed to recently (plus huge lack of sleep!) just knock me out. Very bad when it comes to driving.

"The Evening Grosbeak is a year-round Alberta resident, usually in the northern half of the Province, but may be found in the southern mountains and the Cypress Hills as well. This big-beaked bird is a common winter visitor to central and southern Alberta towns and cities.

When not stuffing themselves at winter feeders, grosbeaks use their specialized beaks to crack the winged seeds of Manitoba maple (boxelder) and green ash trees. In spring, swelling buds of poplar and willow are relished, and in summer and fall, the birds gorge on the ripening berries of pincherry, Saskatoons and other juicy morsels."

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