The Rock Pigeon has to be one of the most common and ordinary of all birds in the world. They are seen on ever continent, except Antarctica (
eBird map). Mankind has a long history with the pigeon, both good and bad, from both the perspective of the pigeon and from mankind. But just think about it...if this was a rare bird, would we not count it among some of the most interesting and beautiful?!
The American Robin is one of the most common and ordinary birds in North America (
eBird map). Aside from a few vagrants across the east and west ponds that probably excite some twitchers, they just don't get that much attention from birders in North America. But, every now and then we find an American Robin that begs us to give it a second glance 'cause its different and extraordinary.
So, when the birding seems to be slow and just plain ordinary, don't forget to look for and enjoy the EXTRA in the ordinary.
Well done Robert, for a long time I have said that "even the most common birds can be uncommonly beautiful".
ReplyDeleteI agree with Mia! So often you HAVE to find the extra in the ordinary because that's all that's out there! I never grow tired in finding delight in my robins and doves.
ReplyDeleteEvery bird species is handsome in its own regard. I like the Magnetite deposits on the Pigeon too. Supposedly the magnetic crystals that develop at the base of the birds' beaks allow them to sense magnetic fields, which is why they have an excellent sense of direction. Extraordinary indeed!
ReplyDeleteGreat post Robert, I agree, the ordinary are too often overlooked.
ReplyDeleteWell said and photographed. We forget how extraordinary the ordinary can be.
ReplyDeleteWonderful post and oh so true! I saw my first robin of the year yesterday and became so very excited you would have thought I spotted an especially rare bird. When I think of robins, springtime comes to mind. The Rock Pigeon is indeed, beautiful. Fantastic photographs, Robert!
ReplyDeleteOh Robert, you know me...I like them all! And I like pigeons as long as they are not devouring the seed from my backyard feeders! Then they are like pigs with wings!
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