I made the annual early June stop at Retzer Nature Center in Waukesha to see if any Bobolinks were around. There were at least 10 males and some females present, I really did not do a count. They flew to many field locations and gave nice views flying and perching near me at times. Nice to see them there. No sign of Dickcissels which I had hoped to see there too. It was a warm sunny morning with little winds, I was hot standing out on a trail there. Images were taken on June 7, 2018.
Bobolink, male
Bobolink
Binomial name: Dolichonyx oryzivorus
Category: Blackbirds
Size: 7” long, 11.5” wing span
Weight: 1.50 oz
Notes: A male Bobolink may have more than one mate. A well known birder in Wisconsin had called this bird a “skunk blackbird” because of the whitish stripe down the back of the head.
Bobolink, female
Bobolinks, male left, female right…
In flight and calling…
Bobolink, female perched with Golden Alexanders
Bobolink, male
In flight and calling…
Bobolink, female at takeoff…
Bobolink, female
Bobolink, female, just hanging on…
Bobolinks, female left, male right…
Bobolink, female
Bobolink, female looking…
Bobolink, male in the stalks which they typically perch in…
In coming…
Nice going Jim, These are beautiful and special. Thanks for these. Cheers from Peggy in Madison
Thanks for so many views of the females. These photos will help me in the field while I’m doing breeding bird surveys.
Lovely photos, Jim. I especially like the female with the Golden Alexander.
Love Bobolinks, great pics as always Jim
Awesome pics Jim. Thanks for sharing.