I was delighted to photograph this female Dickcissel perched on a dock two days ago from the auto tour road at Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma.
Female Dickcissel perched on dock in Oklahoma – Canon R7, handheld, f9, 1/250, ISO 800, Canon EF 100-400mm II at 400mm, natural light
I know this is a female Dickcissel because she’s missing the black V on the throat that an adult male would have.
I can also tell she’s an adult. Any young that hatched this year would still show some streaking on the breast, and she doesn’t have that.
From what I’ve been told, Dickcissels used to be more numerous at the refuge. The flooding in 2019 and the habitat changes that followed the flood may be the reason for the drop in their numbers.
Utah doesn’t typically have Dickcissels, so I’m just happy to have them in my viewfinder whenever it happens here in Oklahoma or Arkansas. I just wish it happened more often.
The dark rust colored seeds of the plant this female was perched on clued me in that it is a member of the Rumex genus. I believe it’s Curly Dock, but it might also be Hastate-leaved or Swamp Dock. I should have taken a photo of the leaves.
I should be able to relocate the plant easily the next time I’m at the refuge. It was right next to the road.
Perhaps this female Dickcissel will be perched on it again!
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Dickcissel photos plus facts and information about this species.
Great shot. I don’t recall seeing Dickcissel’s in your previous posts…I either missed it or I’ve just forgotten…more likely the latter. I love your narrative and the pic is beautiful. Thanks Mia.