The Dickcissel

What a weird name for a bird. The name was first documented in the 19th century, reflecting the bird’s vocalization. When the Dickcissels first arrive here at our place each Spring (which is quite late compared to other species), it changes the entire tone and tune of the grassy fields where they breed.

It’s not uncommon for me to see a male Dickcissel perched at the highest branch of a tree. From there, they belt out their “dick…dick…cissel…cissel” sound. For the record, I would have named this handsome bird something a bit more noble. This poor species falls into the category of the Killdeer and Bobwhite. They, too, have monikers that supposedly strike a resemblance to their vocalizations. Sad. Who wants to be referred to as one that kills Bambi – and how can a little ground bird even accomplish that? I’m not all that in agreement with those early ornithologists. Just sayin’

Their coloring can make them difficult to spot, but once they tip back their head and belt out their song, I find it easy to hone in on their location.

I have only filmed a female Dickcissel a few times. Compared to their mates, they are more elusive. The female builds the nest on the ground in a grassy location. We have quite a bit of that sort of habitat! Still, it’s only when I scare up the bird from its nest as I move through a field, that I will most often get a glimpse of a female Dickcissel.

That happened a few days ago and I was able to capture this very lovely bird once she landed on an old, overgrown bit of fence.