The Common Blackbird (Turdus merula) on a tree near the Trans Pennine Trail close to Knott Fold.
The adult male has glossy black plumage, blackish-brown legs, a yellow eye-ring and an orange-yellow bill. It may not immediately be clear why the name "Blackbird", first recorded in 1486, was applied to this species, but not to one of the various other common black English birds, such as the Carrion Crow, Raven, Rook or Jackdaw. However, in Old English, and in modern English up to about the 18th century, "bird" was used only for smaller or young birds, and larger ones such as crows were called "fowl". At that time, the Blackbird was therefore the only widespread and conspicuous "black bird" in the British Isles. (information from Wikipedia)
A contribution to Skywatch Friday.
Advance notice: With the CDPB portal currently out of action, Julie of Sydney Eye has created a page where participents in the April 1st theme (Cobblestones) can register their posts on a linky. See CDPB Theme Day
That is a great capture of the blackbird against the branches and sky.
ReplyDeleteGreat close up!! Boom & Gary of the Vermilon River, Canada.
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