[keithric]

Last week on Tdadswell's bushtit photos, I dared to label that charming little busybody as "possibly BC's most drab bird."

At colony farm on Saturday, I had an excellent chance to observe a competitor for the the title. A very quiet, unassuming Spotted Towhee fledgling. I have always been drawn to the colourful ST adults and was somewhat surprised to see this fellow so lacking in colour—not even having red eyes at this stage of development. Right click for enlarged image.




How about a quest to find the "ugliest duckling" (bird that starts out unimpressive but becomes amazing in time)?

For an interesting collection of juvenile birds from the Pacific Northwest, check out this site:
http://www.pbase.com/jvhigbee/juveniles
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Keith R.

[nickinthegarden]

Thank you for posting, since this is my first season for fledglings that information will certainly help. I love your "porthole" blow-up view of the youngling!

[keithric]

Thanks, Nick. You're always so positive. The world needs more folks like you!
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Keith R.