 |
| photo by Anne Greene |
The gregarious champion of Massachusetts birds, the Black-capped chickadee is not only the state bird, a feeder favorite, and friendly charmer but its gentle song is a kind reminder that spring is near. The Black-capped chickadee is a “name sayer” or bird named after its own call or song. Like the Whip-poor-will, Bobwhite, and Crow the chickadee also tells the birder who it is through song. Most commonly heard saying “chick-a-dee-dee-dee” it often shortens this to a quick “chick-a-dee”.
But, as the roof begins to drip and some deep push of sprout begins to break the ground the chickadee turns to a melodious two noted “sweet-ie” or “see-saw” song. This welcoming two note song is heard beginning on sunny February days. The song is bright and breaks through the needles. Listen for the “sweet-ie” call, turn to face the sun, and close your eyes. Spring is near.
But, as the roof begins to drip and some deep push of sprout begins to break the ground the chickadee turns to a melodious two noted “sweet-ie” or “see-saw” song. This welcoming two note song is heard beginning on sunny February days. The song is bright and breaks through the needles. Listen for the “sweet-ie” call, turn to face the sun, and close your eyes. Spring is near.
