#passerines

The Ponds of Corot, Ville-d'Avray, France

Don Balke (American, b. 1933). Cactus Wren Bird, Arizona, 1984. Gouache and watercolor on board.

Photo: Ken Mattison

"This tiny bird is often hard to see in summer, when it lives high in tall conifers. In migration and winter, however, it often flits about low in woods and thickets, flicking its wings nervously as it approaches the observer. When it is truly excited (by a potential mate, rival, or predator), the male may erect his ruby-red crown feathers, hidden at other times. The song of the Ruby-crown is jumbled and loud, all out of proportion to the size of the bird."

Australian Reed Warbler, Perth WA.