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Wednesday, November 6, 2013

The Scissor-tailed Flycatcher

For the past few weeks we have been seeing Scissor-tailed Flycatchers.
They hang out on the high line wires about a mile from our house.
Odd, because two miles from our house, dove hang out on the high line wires.

Have you ever taken a close look at the Scissor-tailed Flycatcher?
I mean in real life, not photos in magazines or Oklahoma History books.

They are so brightly colored with a powder blue neck and chest.
 A brilliant orange under their wing.
 AND
A touch of scarlet purple on their backs.
Scissor-tailed Flycatchers have tails twice the length of their bodies. 

Scissor-tailed Flycatchers are noted for their sky dance.
I attempted to catch the dance in the photo below.
The photo doesn't come close to this birds grace and poise.

I was late for work the morning I took these photos.

It seems they are paired.
I can't find research stating if the Scissor-tails mate for life.

Scissor-tailed Flycatchers sing a beautiful song! 

They became the official Oklahoma State Bird in 1951 and are protected by law.

The Scissor-tailed Flycatcher diet consists mainly of non useful and harmful insects.
Therefore, these birds are of great economic value!

Scissor-tails migrate to Mexico in late summer. 
 I sure hope they made it to warmer weather before the cold front hit here last night!

Next time you see a Scissor-tail Flycatcher, I encourage you to stop, look and listen.
Even if it does make you late for work.
It will be worth it!
You'll be glad you did!

Chirping away,
Rancher Girl

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