Sheldon

Since I've (hopefully) conquered the squirrel situation, I've noticed many more birds coming to the feeders. The most recent new visitor is the brown thrasher, scientifically identified as toxostoma rufum. He adores suet, so I try to keep it out just for him. And the woodies, too, of course! Photographed 10/18/13.

Looks like he has some sort of infection on his face. :( Wish I could do something for him.

He likes to be near this piece of driftwood when he's feeling insecure about his surroundings.

Some extra napkins over here please!

The brown thrasher is a very exuberant singer, often mimicking other birds. The mimicry is not surprising since they're in the same family as mockingbirds and catbirds. They are thought to have more than 1100 songs in their repertoire. Brown thrashers are the only thrasher species east of Texas. Their bodies are quite large and well-marked, yet well-camouflaged in dense shrubs and vegetation. During summer males climb high to sing on exposed limbs. The brown thrasher will vigorously defend their nest, known to draw blood from people and dogs. Both males and females incubate the eggs and feed their young.

I've named this one Sheldon (from The Big Bang Theory) because he sings complex musical phrases, repeating each phrase twice. I find that just a tad OCD, but in a cute way. :)

Sharing with Wild Bird Wednesday and I'd Rather B Birdin'. Thanks to the generous hosts, Stewart and Anni!

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