Thursday, May 6, 2010

Fortress

Western Scrub Jay
A pair of nesting Western Scrub Jays (Aphelocoma californica) is currently providing the most entertaining birdwatching in our yard; their nest is located deep within a portion of the hedge outside our kitchen window. We see the jays landing on the hedge carrying pieces of nesting material, scanning their surroundings, then sinking down into the vegetation. A few minutes later, they pop back up. Without fail, a luckless crow soon arrives–the feathered ruffian makes a frustrated attempt to enter the leafy fortress and raid the nest. Avian drama at it's best!