Some of you may have read Fat Finch’s blog last week and discovered that the writers are awaiting a call from the Nobel Committee as a result of their scientific discovery that orange birds love purple food. To assist the writers, I offered to do an independent study to see if I could replicate their results. Armed with essential scientific research tools–binoculars, the Canon with the long lens, an 8-pound can of grape jelly and a beer–I set out to do my own study. I observed eight or nine Western Tanagers and two Bullock’s Orioles over a two-hour period:
A subject eyes the grape jelly feeder
More subjects volunteer for the study
Other orange birds arrive
Some traditionalists stay with usual food sources.
Western Tanager with insect
But orange birds vote overwhelmingly for grape jelly.
The clear winner: Grape jelly
Some fortunate birds are able to eat with no conflicts.
Delectable grape jelly
Enjoying the grape jelly
But occasional disputes break out over ownership of the jelly feeder.
Western Tanagers
Another dispute
Incoming
My observations confirm Fat Finch’s original conclusion, and I cannot wait for the Nobel Committee to award the well-deserved prize. I hope to get the opportunity to conduct more research. Next time perhaps I should bring an additional beer. In the meantime, you should follow Fat Finch’s blog for always interesting birding information. If you enjoy that blog you might also want to follow The Golden State by the same author.
Great series of pics, Linda!! Those Western Tanagers are absolutely gorgeous
lovely photos linda and brilliant research.
Here is a nobel prize.
cheers,
steve
Why thank you Steve, although it is Fat Finch who is the proper Nobel winner!
wonderful birds and photos
dan
Fun, fabulous post! Gorgeous photos! My favorite is the quarreling Western Tanagers. Fingers are crossed for the Nobel Prize.
Pingback: Transfixed by Tanagers « Fat Finch–Birds, Birding & Blogging
An excellent post Linda! Great captures!
Great series of photo such a stunning Bird with beautiful colouring