Finally saw my first painted bunting!

[Maestro]

It was a quick view before it headed back into the brush. I didn't even have time to focus the camera. But now the hunt is on for more.... :)

[ailsagirl]

1. Aren't they gorgeous?

I've only seen photos myself but I understand it's a shy bird.

Lucky you!!

[Maestro]

4. Thanks.

They are very shy and prefer to hang out in the "scrub brush." At least that is what I call it. ;) Every once in a while a male will find a perch and start to sing. I observed quite a few this summer once learned its song. The only problem is they would not give me a nice perch so I could get a good photo of one. The males always seemed to choose a utility line. :banghead:

Here is one of the pictures I took. It was an incredibly bright day so that is the sky is so washed out plus it was midday, about the worst time to take wildlife photos.

[semillama]

2. I've yet to see one in the wild

I've only seen them as cage birds, unfortunately.

[Maestro]

5. Come to Texas in the summer

and I can just about guarantee you a sighting or two. I have been in areas where there were as many as six males dueling it out in song for the females. :)

[sybylla]

3. Congratulations!

I've never seen a painted but have had the pleasure of watching two indigo buntings in my lifetime. They are enchanting and so damn fleeting.

[Maestro]

6. Thanks

And the indigo bunting is another nemesis bird for me. They should be around my area, but darned if I can ever find one. They are beautiful though!

[tigereye]

7. I saw one at the pool we belong to, since one of the members who is a birder

pointed it out. They tend to hide now, but I can still hear them.

A beautiful bird.

[Maestro]

8. I could hear them all summer here in Texas

but most of the time they were very well hidden in scrub brush where they like to be. They need to come out more to attract those mates. :)