Juvenile Western Kingbird perched on an old fence post
I feel fortunate that I am able to see and photograph both the Western and Eastern Kingbird juveniles here in northern Utah. I have photographed Western Kingbirds building their nests and incubating their eggs but haven’t had that same opportunity with Eastern Kingbirds.
The ranges for these two species of kingbirds overlap here in northern Utah but I see more of the Western Kingbirds than I do the Eastern Kingbirds. I love the soft grays and pale yellows of the plumage in Western Kingbird juveniles.
Juvenile Eastern Kingbird perched on wires
Eastern Kingbirds lay 3 to 5 eggs which hatch in 16 to 18 days. Their juveniles seem a little less aggressive than the Western Kingbird juveniles do. I think the Eastern Kingbird juveniles look pretty snazzy with their black and white plumage.
Both Eastern and Western Kingbirds have pinkish gapes as juveniles that the adults do not have and that helps to ID them as young birds.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Western Kingbird photos plus facts and information about this species. Click here to see more of my Eastern Kingbird photos plus facts and information about this species.
Subtle charmers. Thank you.
Great pics and a very interesting comparison. The detail you captured is just exquisite. Thanks Mia.
Think that the Eastern songbird wears a tux and is the picture of elegance.
Lovely colors. I have not seen as many Western Kingbirds as past years. I wonder if the wet spring made them choose other areas?
Nice comparison.
thanks. John
Beagijl
Interesting to see both birds and be able to compare. I especially like the first….am a sucker for weathered wood and that perch is almost as beautiful as the bird!!!