Fishing with Rod Discussion Forum

British Columbia Sport & Outdoor Lounge => Outdoor Photography => Topic started by: VAGAbond on January 16, 2023, 01:24:29 PM

Title: There is a new bird species in town
Post by: VAGAbond on January 16, 2023, 01:24:29 PM
Over the last 10 years or so there have been increasing sightings of California Scrub Jay across the Lower Mainland, a species from further south not previously seen much here.   Prior to the late 1990's there were only 5 reported sightings in coastal BC.  This past year has seen a significant increase in their number.   Birders have reported a number in recent months including one from my neighbourhood Richmond.   During the recent snow we saw one check out  our suet feeder but it didn't stay, apparently suet was not to its liking.  They frequent oak trees for acorns and love peanuts so I put out a handful of peanuts this past weekend to see it I could get a picture.   It took about two minutes for the first bird to arrive, followed by two others so there must be much more of a population than I realized.

Here are a some photos:

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52631858685_e39859da1e_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2obU2Vp)



(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52631899783_dbfe0e7e56_3k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2obUf8Z)



(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52629612795_e29d555c84_3k.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2obGwia)

To me they seem an attractive addition to our area.  Time will tell if they stay or if this is temporary due to stress in their normal range.
Title: Re: There is a new bird species in town
Post by: DragonSpeed on January 17, 2023, 07:58:08 AM
Nice shots.  I'm not sure if they will compete with the locals (I imagine Steller's Jay will give them a run for their money) or if they will be pushed out/push out.

Will have to look around on a day that isn't pissing rain, to see if I can spot a couple.

Cheers!
Title: Re: There is a new bird species in town
Post by: VAGAbond on January 18, 2023, 08:34:37 AM
Ladner Harbour Park, especially near the Wharfinger's office,  and across the river to the south on the north side of the Ladner business district is a place where a five or so are hanging out and have been seen regularly.

They have mated with the Steller's Jays as several hybrids have been seen.  I haven't seen one yet.

Another photo of one of these cheeky birds:


(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52632000019_cdf6062b40_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2obUKWc)
Title: Re: There is a new bird species in town
Post by: DragonSpeed on January 19, 2023, 06:35:11 AM
Cool!  thanks for the heads up.  Might be nice to get out and see something new :)