Black-capped Chickadee

A Black-capped Chickadee

Here are some shots of Black-capped Chickadees (Latin name: Poecile atricapillus) at my window feeder. From what I have been able to ascertain, chickadees can be likened to the scouts of the birding world. Ever the adventurer, a chickadee is usually the first bird to explore a new food source. Waiting in the wings (pun intended) are apt to be finches and nuthatches.

Chickadees derive their common name from their distinctive call—“chick-a-dee-dee-dee-dee”. On a personal note, the chickadee’s song (a two-toned melody) was one of the first birdsongs I was ever able to produce. My observations thus far have led me to believe that chickadees are convivial birds that generously share feeder space with finches, but will easily give way to nuthatches. On the ground, all three species are agreeable. Over the next few weeks I’m hoping to be able to “train” the chickadees to eat out of my hands. I’ve found a couple good articles online that will hopefully help with this endeavor. I’ll be sure to keep you updated.

The photo above is one of my favorites I’ve taken so far. For a little bird, it looks very majestic perched there covered in snow seemingly oblivious to the fact that the only thing separating us is a sheet of glass. I enjoy being able to see a slight reflection in its eyes.

This chickadee is about set to go back and have a feast:



And with the seed firmly in its beak, takes flight. Not a prize-winning shot by any means, but I like how it captures the movement. Rapid shutter is awesome.



Finally, I thought this shot does a great job of capturing the side profile of a chickadee.