The two Northern Flickers which come to my feeder every morning have shown a
strong distaste for Starlings in the past; but this weekend it turned to
aggression. I saw one Flicker grab a Starling by the wing and hold him for
some time. The terrified Starling was released after much fluttering and
screeching and the Flicker continued dining on sunflower seed chips. The
Flicker was obviously not guarding the seed since it took no notice of the
many small birds eating just inches away.

My admiration for Flickers has increased enormously.

I have an unusual Dark Eyed Junco visiting my yard this year. Head, back
and wings a uniform charcoal and very pale grey breast. I didn't think it
was a Junco until it flew and revealed the white tail feathers. Is this a
different species or just an oddity?

John Shelton
Portland, Oregon