Jay or Red back shrike?

Connor7 · #1 (**permalink**) 07-04-2009, 09:22 AM

I was looking through my early photographs (explains quality) and found this. Because i only started 'twitching'

i couldnt identify a single bird and so this was left unnoticed.

Looks a bit like a jay but I couldnt see any blue on it, i dont suspect it to be a red back shrike just wanted a second opinon

Thanks in advance

Connor

Hedge Witch · #2 (**permalink**) 07-04-2009, 09:27 AM

I'm fairly sure it's a Jay. The eye is more visible, the shrike has a mask or a dark area over the eye I think.

(Photos courtesy of John)

KeenTeen17 · #3 (**permalink**) 07-04-2009, 09:31 AM

100% a jay

Connor7 · #4 (**permalink**) 07-04-2009, 09:33 AM

thanks
Ive just relised that the shrike is alot smaller so its undoubtedly a jay
'worth a shot to get another bird on my list'

Lance Morgan · #5 (**permalink**) 07-04-2009, 09:48 AM

Certainly is a Jay

SheffieldPete · #6 (**permalink**) 07-04-2009, 10:40 AM

Definitely jay.

For the record you're not really a "twitcher" unless you travel to see rare birds that have already been found by others. The press use the term incorrectly as a prejorative term for all birdwatchers.

Connor7 · #7 (**permalink**) 07-04-2009, 10:52 AM

Sorry

'When i first started bird watching'

diggleken · #8 (**permalink**) 07-04-2009, 11:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Connor7

Sorry

'When i first started bird watching'

Dont be sorry Connor - bird watching and associated expertise in ID is acquired over many years and we all make mistakes and learn during that time.It's fun doing it over the years though!
Come to think of it, we all still make mistakes, if were honest!
All these ID posts help to sharpen our skills anyway - keep em coming.

Cheers
Ken