I turned to a must have resource for Indiana birders concerning the Blue Jays I saw this afternoon. I sought information from a book entitled Enjoying Indiana Birds by master birdwatcher, Bud Starling. The book was published in 1978 by Indiana University press, and while it is now out of print, I do not think a better book about Indiana birds exists. Bud Starling had a weekly column for years in the Indianapolis Star about all things bird watching. What made his column so interesting, besides the elegant and creative prose, was his advocacy on behalf of birds and their habitat. I really miss, as I am sure many others do to, reading his beautiful writings. On the Indianapolis Star web-site his writings are still available, but for a price, which I really don't like. I was able to find my own copy of his book at a used book sale in mint condition. Yes, I was very happy that day as I think I only gave one dollar for it! Inside of my copy I placed his obituary from the Star as Bud passed away in 2007. From all I have heard he was a kind and gentle man. If any of you ever met him I would love to have you post your recollections.
About the Blue Jays themselves, Mr. Starling had many things to say and I thought I would list some of the more interesting.
Blue Jays produce 4-5 offspring every Spring, they line their nests with pine needles, they can mimic a red-shouldered hawk perfectly, they are a year-round resident in Indiana, but they will migrate to the South at times, and they are known by their aggressive behavior and distinctive call of "jay,jay" and "thief, thief thief."
A beautiful bird that always adds a splash of color and a bit of happiness to otherwise long Winters here in Indiana. I know I sure appreciate them.
Stay Wild!
Steve
Posts
Steve,
ReplyDeleteI really liked how you posted your survey for us to take on the blog. I sent an email out to acquaintances. I never dreamed I could do it on the blog. --I chose mockingbird, simply because it reminded me of To Kill a Mockingbird, my favorite book. Does that count? Anyway, your photos really add to your blog.
Hi, Steve--
ReplyDeleteIf you haven't already checked out the 'ask an expert' option, I'd like to suggest posing a question for the wildlife experts at enature.com .
I'm excited to see if I receive a response for my nature question. There are all kinds of categories, and I thought you would find it interesting.