Stellar Jays live in the pine forests in Southern California’s mountains.
Oregon Dark Eyed Juncos are local birds and are related to sparrows.
Burrowing Owls are “a species of special concern,” in Southern California, where much of their natural habitat has been destroyed by development. Petitions are being submitted to the state to change their status to endangered.
This handsome jay was hanging out on a picnic table, waiting for a handout.
So, of course, I gave him one!
Juncos are quite tiny, and rather shy, so they are hard for me to photograph. This guy was unusually cooperative!
Burrowing owls nest underground to hide from raptors and raise their young. People and organizations all over California are setting up underground Burrowing Owl boxes to help shelter and protect these adorable owls. It is a rare thrill to see them out of the boxes curious about the human who is photographing them! These guys were being sheltered by The Big Bear Zoo & Rehabilitation Center.
Cheers to you from a few of our local feathers~
cindyknoke.com 
I love all your birds, Cindy, but I’m particularly fond of the Stellar Jays! We been fortunate to see them on our mountain hikes in Colorado. They are little beggars though! š
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They are gorgeous aren’t they, and so much personality to match! Cheers to you from Peru ā¤
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From the swept up spiked, mohawk do to the sleek, smooth coiffed softer look they all have a distinctive style of their own, and none of them need all the things we do (curling irons, hair dryers, barrettes, combs and brushes, styling gel, etc. etc.) š
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I think this is why women have always added feathers to their fashions, we want to emulate the birds!
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Haha how true. Have a great weekend. Take care.
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I can’t leave out the owls too. They have a studious, bookish look like they study hard into the night and those penetrating eyes that can see right through you. š
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Maybe that is why they are referred to as ‘wise old owls,’ and often featured wearing spectacles!
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šš
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What amazing jays. Still can’t get over why American birds can be so colourful. You are blessed with a great variety.
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But, then there is Australia, with has to be the colorful bird capitol of the world, which is why I am going back there!
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Sounds great. A very special island.
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Just critters, and occasional daily human visitors, ie., nearly perfect! š
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Great photos! I’m trying to entice more birds onto my balcony by putting out food, but a family of squirrels in the tree next to it seem intent to foil my efforts lol.
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Squirrels are ingenious little creatures. They particularly enjoy squirrel proof bird feeders! š
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