American redstart vs. Tennessee warbler at Charles d. Owen park

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These two little birds, an American Redstart (bottom ) & Tennessee Warbler (top ) were among the most common species that I saw at Charles Owen Park in Swannanoa NC last week. Similar in size and demeanor, both Warblers are energetic foragers, flitting from bush to tree, actively clambering over vegetation and flying out to catch insects. Apparently though, the female Redstart had very little patience for the antics of her Tennessee shadow. At one point she attacked the young bird by dive bombing him. Swipe through to the second photo to see her in attack mode haha! After a brief scuffle, the smaller bird made a hasty retreat across the lake leaving the Redstart to continue to foraging in peace. Now that fall migration is well underway here in NC, Warblers of various species are moving through the state in vast numbers. Species that normally live in the mountains are showing up in yards in the Piedmont. Others that nest in Canada are making a limited appearance too! If you love Warblers, now is the time to go find ‘em! Photos by @sally_siko of @birdwatching_nc on the mighty 50MP full frame, the @canonusa #5Ds

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