Hello tweeties,

the most recently demystified mystery bird was a domestic "Crested Mallard", Anas platyrhynchos, which you all successfully identified (more or less);

http://scienceblogs.com/grrlscientist/2008/12/todays_mystery_bird_for_you_to_102.php

be sure to read Rick's analysis of this bird to learn more about "hybrids" versus "breeds" and a little more about waterfowl breeders.

Today's mystery bird, courtesy of Rick Wright, will likely keep you a little bit busy with your field guides (good thing it's Friday!);

http://scienceblogs.com/grrlscientist/2008/12/todays_mystery_bird_for_you_to_103.php

the recent series of gorgeous and dramatic "image of the day" are courtesy of a friend who is a talented photographer, John del Rio;

http://scienceblogs.com/grrlscientist/2008/12/storm_front.php

http://scienceblogs.com/grrlscientist/2008/12/sunset_over_maui.php

There are more images to come by this photographer, so check in to see those (1500 -- 3pm -- ET).

Last, but not least, I wanted to draw your attention to an essay that a colleague of mine at ScienceBlogs wrote. This colleague is a physicist and tenured professor and he wrote an essay about the value of knowledge about science among the public and among our elected officials. I think you'll find he has really nailed this idea quite nicely;

http://scienceblogs.com/principles/2008/12/science_is_interested_in_you.php

cheers,

GrrlScientist
Devorah
http://scienceblogs.com/grrlscientist/
Roosting high up a tree somewhere in Central Park, NYC