Reading the Fresno-Madera Birds column of The Yellowbill might give you the impression that rarities are the only birds worthy of our attention.  Pursuing rarities is exciting because it offers the opportunity to discover new occurrences, develop and demonstrate birding skills, build lists, and grow friendships with other advanced birders.  However, even common birds can inspire curiosity.

Jeff Davis has compiled, reviewed, and summarized records of Fresno and Madera county birds for the Fresno Audubon Society for more than 15 years.  He has served as an editor for eBird and North American Birds for nearly as long.  Those activities focus on documenting the occurrence and distribution of rare birds.  In this talk, however, he will discuss the natural history of our area’s more common birds, addressing aspects of their plumage, behavior, changing distributions, migratory patterns, and populations.