Pictured is one of the large flocks of White-faced Ibis that keep me entertained on the run to work. I've had Black-crowned Night Heron drift across my path as well. I'm often serranaded by singing White-collared Seedeaters and Blue Grosbeaks, but on Friday, a more familiar voice joined the dawn chorus. It emanated from a group of 5 European Starlings atop some dead trees over the river. The widespread North American population of Starlings originate from a handful of birds introduced in New York.
A check in my guides indicated that Tequis. is still well south of their range, though. Perhaps these birds were the pioneers of a still expanding population.
Very entertaining blog! I also saw lots of European Starlings in the city park of Santiago de Querétaro the other day. Do you have any idea why they might have expanded their range further south?
ReplyDeleteKeep up the good work!
Thanks! The birds are essentially an invasive species. The whole American population started from a handful of introduced birds in New York. From there they have 'taken over', utilising the feeding opportunities provided by agriculture in the states. Presumably they'll keep moving until the habitat becomes unsuitable. Given the deforestation of much of Mexico, this might be quite some while...
ReplyDeleteSorry for the slow reply!