A Dapper Visitor

I was all set to take part in the MonoMonday “Fancy” challenge today, but then this brightly-garbed visitor appeared, drawn by the seed-filled suet blocks in our feeders.

This is a male Varied Thrush, a relatively common resident in this part of the United States, although not seen in such numbers as Song Sparrows, Black-Capped Chickadees, and other birds. Phil and I were fascinated by his calm demeanor and what seemed like deliberate posing on the deck rail, as if he couldn’t decide which side would photograph better, or if a front view would flatter him more. What a gift for a photographer, compared to the camera-shy behavior of many birds! His vivid coloration was another gift on a dark, rainy day, and I’m looking forward to seeing how brightly he sparkles on a sunny one!

Varied Thrush vital statistics:
   Length 7.5-10.2 in (19-26cm)
   Weight 2.3 - 3.5 oz (65-100 g) 
   Wingspan 13.4-15 in (34-38 cm)
You can learn more about Varied Thrushes on All About Birds (Cornell University), if you’re interested.

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