Since we recently reignited our “What Bird Is This?” series, we’ve decided to keep the momentum going with a monthly challenge whenever a good (or delightfully bad) photo opportunity arises.
For February’s instalment, we have a subject that should be relatively easy—especially if you’ve spent any time in the bush lately. They seem to be popping up everywhere at the moment! However, between the tricky backlighting and the fact that this individual is facing away from the lens, we’re hoping to give even the seasoned birders a moment of hesitation.
While many birds in its family prefer to skulk in the shadows of thickets, this bird is a dedicated fan of the open floor. If you spot a medium-sized bird standing bolt upright on a game path, road, or camp lawn, looking like it’s trying to win a “Best Posture” award, you’re likely on the right track.
We will reveal the answer next week.
Good luck.
Goodmorning Sean! Im going to throw my hat into the ring and suggest a Groundscraper Thrush? The spotted undersides and behaviour description seem spot on but its very hard…thought it might be a starling of some kind at first.
Ok, this is a wild guess from Robert’s Birds – is it a Familiar Chat?
Hmmm, could it be a Francolin?
Is this a thrush of some type? Olive? Karoo? Just a wild-$&@ guess 🤣!!
Good morning, as I’m currently in the Seychelles, a Common Myna popped into my mind yesterday while trying to figure this out. I woke up this morning to find a Common Myna (!) under my roof taking shelter from the rain, so I felt I had to share
Hello Sean,
Love this challenge! 😃
I think it is a Starling (Saturnus Vulgaris), Juvenile.
Thank you for this fun and ”learn a lot” challenge!
I would also suggest a thrush, but no idea which one.
Groundscraper Thrush!