Bird Identification 101

Having been a professional hunting guide since 1998, and running round the woods since I was about 7 (I'm 60) - I can tell you that the first thing you should do when trying to identify a bird by sound or visual evidence (sighting or photo) - is check to see if a suspected bird is even native to your area or migrates through your area. Look at the maps in your bird guide book.

I it is is not - then look for alternatives. However, realize that many mammals are kept on game farms and as pets, and have been turned loose, or gotten loose, in many areas - so don't totally discount an unlikely candidate.

But, look for the most likley candidate, based on where that species normally occurs.

You can often find good photos of birds,, and information on their sounds on the itnernet. Just Google it. Try the Macualay Library of Sound - at Cornell University - http://macaulaylibrary.org/index.do. For Photos- just Google "photos of ***" (whatever bird you want)

If you are unsure - feel free to e-amil me at TRMichels@yahoo.com

Photos always help.

God bless and enjoy the great outdoors.

T.R. Michels

TRMichels@yahoo.com