Natural Archway

While searching the fens for late migrant warblers, I came across this Northern Mockingbird on one of the coolest natural perches I've ever seen. Northern Mockingbirds are incredibly smart birds, and as their name implies, mimic numerous other species' calls. In a span of a few minutes I have seen mockingbirds accurately mimic twenty or so different species. I can't tell you how many times I've chased what I thought was an oriole or thrush around for twenty minutes, only to finally realize its a mockingbird stringing me along. Male mockingbirds may learn up to 200 different bird songs in their lifetime, and have been known to recognize specific people.

Back Bay Fens
Boston, Massachusetts

November 23, 2009