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We only have a few more weeks of desolate winter to weather before the coming of vibrant spring.
I find that by this time of the year, I long for color. The grays and browns of winter start to wear on me and sometimes just the briefest flashes excite.
Example: a species of warbler that spends its winter here in the valley, the yellow-rumped, spends it in its dingy winter plumage, that is except for its namesake bright "yellow rump."
Joy Baker recently captured one with her camera. And even though it is a ho-hum color, her photo (above) shows that its "butter butt" shines for all to see.
Breeding plumage Photo:wikimedia |
I understand why they molt into bland plumage to better blend into the dull winter background, and the intense contrasting colors of spring to attract a mate.
But here is the question: Nature is enormously practical, why keep the bright yellow rump in winter? To what purpose? Doesn't it make them more noticeable to predators like sharp-shinned and Cooper's hawks?
To what advantage the butter on thy butt?
Thank you for the use of the photo, Joy.
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2 comments:
For happiness, and that's all.
Well now sarah of the woods, you may be correct. Seeing that yellow spot certainly makes me happy!
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