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Posted by Robin Diaz on 10:44:20 05/02/11
In Reply to: RFI Bahama Mockingbird - PTO take note posted by Holly
Holly: Spring is a likely time for Bahama Mockingbird to show up in South Florida, but we also have abundant and highly variable newly fledged Northern Mockingbirds.
In addition to obvious field marks, here are some general characteristics to look for if you suspect a Bahama Mockingbird: 1) large and more robust than Northern (seems like a combination of Brown Thrasher and Northern Mockingbird); 2) prefers dense vegetation and does not like to perch in the open; 3) upper parts have a brownish tone; 4) the streaking on the flanks is distinct (we usually see adult birds here) 5) dark malar or lateral throat stripe; and 6) best field mark is the long tail with white TIPS -- the bird will fan its tail when perched and the tail will appear broad. The white wing bars are not pronounced and the longer bill (than Northern) is difficult to determine in the field.
It makes a "chup" vocalization similar to Northern Mockingbird but is lower pitched and not as sharp. If it sings, it has a melodic song and isn't a mimic.
The drawing in Raffaele's _A Guide to the Birds of the West Indies_ is very good.
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