Chukar – MaleAlectoris chukar August – Utah L=14” ...... WS=20” ...... WT=1.3 lb......m>f Order: Galliformes (Gallinaceous Birds) Family: Phasiandae (Grouse, Turkeys, and Allies) Chukars were introduced to the United States from northern India (now Pakistan) in the 1890’s. Subsequent introductions on a large scale occurred in the 20th century in an effort to establish a new game bird. The preferred habitat of the Chukar is steep, rocky, mountainous terrain and it feeds on seeds and leaves. The bird has become established in the Great Basin in Utah and Nevada and north through parts of Oregon, Idaho, and Washington. It is a favorite game bird of western hunters who consider it a particular challenge as they have to track the bird over great distances. Generally, the Chukar prefers to run instead of fly and can outdistance humans on difficult rocky terrain. If forced to fly the bird will explode upward and then glide downhill.
Chukar – MaleAlectoris chukar August – Utah L=14” ...... WS=20” ...... WT=1.3 lb......m>f Order: Galliformes (Gallinaceous Birds) Family: Phasiandae (Grouse, Turkeys, and Allies)
Great Crested Flycathcher – with Tawny Emperor larva Myiarchus crinitus June – Texas L=8.75”...... WS=13” ....... WT=1.2 oz Order: Passeriformes (Passerine Birds) Family: Tyannidae (Tyrant Flycatchers) The Great Crested Flycatcher prefers open deciduous or mixed woodlands, especially at the edge of clearings. They are seldom found deep in a forest but rather occupy wooded corridors, wooded swamps and urban areas with large trees and adjacent open areas. These preferences have allowed this species to prosper in human habitats as more edge habitats are created. This particular picture was taken at an urban park where native grasses had recently been transplanted. The nesting pair found the Tawny Emperor larvae and butterflies and other insects very good for feeding their young.
