Return to Seven Springs

Ash-throated Flycatcher

I met a very “confiding” bird when we went back to Seven Springs, north of Cave Creek, the other day. It really enjoyed being photographed, I think.

Some of its relatives were in a sycamore tree in one of the campgrounds. Ash-throated Flycatchers are secondary cavity nesters, meaning that they rely on nest holes originally made by other species, such as woodpeckers, or they use naturally occurring cavities in standing dead trees (Cornell). One guarded this nest while the other went to get food.

I got a lifer, only the second for 2019. Things have been tough. Bad shot:

Bewick’s Wren

It’s very lush there.

Verbena

Argentine Thistle plus Bee

Northern Mockingbird

This is what the above spot looked like in December 2017.

One more of my cooperative friend:

Previous visits to Seven Springs: December 2017 and April 2018.