White-breasted Nuthatch: a tale of avian home invasion

On one of my morning bird walks, I witnessed a home invasion. It seems that a pair of Violet-Green Swallows had selected a cozy oak tree cavity for their nest. They went in and out, but so did an Acorn Woodpecker, a starling, and a pair of White-breasted Nuthatches. Since I’d frequently seen these swallows in the same tree the year before, I assumed that the tree cavity was theirs. Not so fast..

California Quail: family loving, social birds

What’s not to love about California quail, the state bird of California? From early morning until dusk, I hear their distinct vocalization resounding throughout the valley where I live: chi-Ca-go, chi-Ca-go. This call seems to say: “I’m here. Where are you? Let’s keep together.” This sound is essential for survival of the group. Learn more about these family loving, social birds here.