The quickly moving chickadee inspires a particular affection.
Often meeting a common need in the calm between crowds at area feeders, it tends to visit, retreat, and pick the seeds at its feet on a nearly distant limb.
Then, soon, spotting others arrive, it disappears for the time up or down the creek.
. . .
According to bird maps and guides, black-capped chickadee and Carolina chickadee ranges overlap here in southeastern Pennsylvania.
Complicating attempts to identify them, these already similar-looking birds are said to hybridize: one might display characteristics of both.
Since I can’t confidently say which chickadee we’re seeing here on Little Crum Creek, I’m including several shots from various times and angles this winter.
Based on these, what might you say: black-capped, Carolina, or hybrid chickadee?
And are you seeing some around your way?
[Click a picture to enlarge]
