How To Identify Birds: the Mockingbird
- April 14, 2010
- 2,303 Views
Writer
Randall Frost
The northern mockingbird is one of the most common songbirds in North America.
You Will Need
- Binoculars
- Field guide
Step 1: Observe the bird's size and shape
Consider the bird’s appearance through binoculars and compare it with the pictures in your field guide. Northern mockingbirds have small heads; long, thin bills with slight downward curvature; and long legs.
Step 2: Observe the bird's color
Consider the bird’s color. Northern mockingbirds are gray-brown with two white wing bars on each wing. In flight the white wing bars show up as white flashes.
Step 3: Observe the bird's behavior
Consider the bird’s behavior. The northern mockingbird likes to perch atop high vegetation, fences, eaves, or telephone wires. On the ground, it runs or hops.
Step 4: Observe the bird's habitat
Consider the habitat where the bird is observed. Northern mockingbirds are frequently found at low elevations in towns, suburbs, backyards, parks, forest edges, and open land.
The mockingbird is typically a year-round resident.
Step 5: Observe the bird's song
Listen to the bird’s song. The northern mockingbird’s song consists of a variety of phrases, repeated two or more times, followed by a pause. The songs can last for 20 seconds or more.
When singing, mockingbirds frequently imitate other birds – and even frogs.
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