Sunday, March 08, 2009

Paridae

According to Wikipedia "The name titmouse is attested from the 14th century, composed of the Old English name for the bird, mase (Proto-Germanic *maison, German Meise) and tit, denoting something small. The spelling was influenced by mouse in the 16th century."

I used to think they were called titmice because of the little gray tuft on the top of their head possibly resembling a mouses tit. So much for where my mind goes.

These little birds have been regular visitors to the feeders throughout the winter and will also be around through the summer. They are curious and frequently stop by and peek in the windows as this one is doing. (If you want a fuller stare-down, click on the photo.)

6 comments:

  1. one of my favorites birdies! during our recent visit to georgia for mother's funeral we saw the lovely cardinals again. they were out and about every day we were there but we never had a camera when we saw them. i miss them so much out here.

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  2. You always have interesting information that is new to me.
    I enjoy visiting you so verymuch.
    Paridae - I like that name.

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  3. Am I reading correctly that the photo was taken through a window? If so the clarity is especially good.

    You really are an excellent photographer!

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  4. Lovely little critter. I can't say I've ever seen any around here. Nor have I ever seen any mice as well endowed as yours seem to be. ;)

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  5. Anonymous5:22 AM

    what a little cutie! I love these birds that are so unfamiliar to me...they are really beautiful. i could sit at your place for hours watching them :)
    xxmango

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  6. Yes, B, that was taken through a window and then sharpened in post processing...my favorite way of making it look like I can take a sharp picture!!

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Glad to hear from you once again. I really like these visits. Come sit on this log and tell me what you are thinking.