We have already begun spring migration here in the U.S. midwest. Red-winged Blackbirds, Sandhill Cranes, Grackles, and Song Sparrows have been arriving en masse. Why are they showing up here when snow can still be found on the ground? To get the best nesting locations so when the females show up they can begin breeding the next generation.
I’ve seen birds in breeding plumage and doing mating “dances” but I’ve only seen birds copulating a handful of times. The event is usually very quick so getting a photo of it is quite rare. Today I’m featuring some of those pictures our members have shared over the years. If you think these pictures might offend you just remember – they’re birds and no naughty bits can be seen.
Bajadreamer captured a pair of Canada Geese in the water.
Ronald Ziglar caught this pair of Red-shouldered Hawks high up in a tree.
Paul Demkovich saw this pair of Black-necked Swans in Argentina.
Avneet Kaur saw a pair of Bald Eagles up in a bare tree.
Birder2011 was in North Dakota when she spotted this pair of Lark Sparrows.
Here’s a pair of White-fronted Terns in New Zealand from Rebecca Bowater.
A pair of Hooded Mergansers in the middle of a lake by bajadreamer.
Finally, a pair of Great Blue Heron from Mike Affinito.
Hope that wasn’t too hot for you! Next time, some breeding plumage displays.
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