I have noticed over the years how often people come to the blog to try and find out how to tell the difference between a male and female Goldfinch (carduelis carduelis). I saw a pair today and it was so obvious which one was which. The female, as you can see was noticeable brown on the head whereas the male had a much darker mask... thats the dark patch between the eye and the beak. It's often said that the red on the face extends further back but in these individuals that isnt the case. However, in the female the red is not as intense and hass a little hint of orange. The male is much more intense red.
The woods and gardens have a different feel abou them now with lots of immature birds around. The adult tits are in a bit of a state and in their moult. This one is a real mess.
When I arrived at the caravan hide I was quickly joined by a Jay which flew in to the food that I have been putting out for them this last few days. Once I have some good regular visits from the Jays, and it looks as though they are coming to the food already, I will concentrate on photographing them in flight which is alwys a challenge but really good fun.
Finally some nice photos of Red-tailed Bumble Bee - Bombous lapidarius.
This is a male and a very attractive bee. Female's are all black with a red tail whereas females have some yellow on the thorax and face.
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