2024 Big Sit at the National Butterfly Center

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58 Photos

Eastern Screech-Owl - Megascops asio — **Eastern Screech-Owl**
*(Megascops asio)*

**Description:**
Eastern Screech-Owls haunt the grounds at the National Butterfly Center, but they don’t always show themselves. Several times, I walked past this location without seeing the bird. I was grateful it finally popped up to say hello.
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**Date Taken:** 2022:09:25 10:37

**Location:**

National Butterfly Center
Mission, Texas
United States
124.68 ft above sea level

**Camera Information:**
NIKON D850, 800 mm, f/8.0, 1/1000

**File Name:** EasternScreechOwl_8506465-NationalButterflyCenter

© 2022 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com

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Pin It — **Eastern Screech-Owl**
*(Megascops asio)*

**Description:**
Eastern Screech-Owls haunt the grounds at the National Butterfly Center, but they don’t always show themselves. Several times, I walked past this location without seeing the bird. I was grateful it finally popped up to say hello.
Read More

**Date Taken:** 2022:09:25 10:37

**Location:**

National Butterfly Center
Mission, Texas
United States
124.68 ft above sea level

**Camera Information:**
NIKON D850, 800 mm, f/8.0, 1/1000

**File Name:** EasternScreechOwl_8506465-NationalButterflyCenter

© 2022 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com

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**2024 NBC Big Sit Team**

**Description:**
Selene Shores, Roy Rodgers, Nestor Hernandez, Joe Salazar, Ryan Rodriguez, Jack Daynes, Kristy Baker, Amanda Hernandez. Not pictured: Luciano Guerra and Judy Salinas
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**Date Taken:** 2024:04:28 7:19

**Location:**

National Butterfly Center
Mission, Texas
United States
121.40 ft above sea level

**Camera Information:**

**File Name:** NBC-Five-to-Nine-Shift-Spoofing

© 2024 - Jack Daynes - shadeTree Imaging

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White-Winged Dove - Zenaida asiatica — **White-Winged Dove**
*(Zenaida asiatica)*

**Description:**
White-Winged Doves at the National Butterfly Center are shy, but they know when the feeders are refilled. Though they may not rush right in, the lure of the seeds gives them the courage to overcome their shyness.
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**Date Taken:** 2022:09:25 9:26

**Location:**

National Butterfly Center
Mission, Texas
United States
124.68 ft above sea level

**Camera Information:**
NIKON D850, 800 mm, f/8.0, 1/250

**File Name:** WhiteWingedDove_8506396-NationalButterflyCenter

© 2022 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com

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Buff-Bellied Hummingbird - Amazilia yucatanensis — **Buff-Bellied Hummingbird**
*(Amazilia yucatanensis)*

**Description:**
Buff-Bellied Hummingbirds are the most common hummingbird in south Texas. Here at the National Butterfly Center in Mission Texas, they seem to have a year-round presence.
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**Date Taken:** 2022:09:25 9:13

**Location:**

National Butterfly Center
Mission, Texas
United States
124.68 ft above sea level

**Camera Information:**
NIKON D850, 800 mm, f/8.0, 1/400

**File Name:** BuffBelliedHummingbird_8506309-NationalButterflyCenter

© 2022 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com

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Black-Crested Titmouse - Baeolophus atricristatus — **Black-Crested Titmouse**
*(Baeolophus atricristatus)*

**Description:**
Typical among the various members of the Titmouse clan, Black-Crested Titmouse behaves at feeders like a thief; snatching a morsel, and quickly retreating to some nearby hidden perch to hammer open the seeds it loves.
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**Date Taken:** 2022:09:25 9:01

**Location:**

National Butterfly Center
Mission, Texas
United States
124.68 ft above sea level

**Camera Information:**
NIKON D850, 800 mm, f/8.0, 1/250

**File Name:** BlackCrestedTitmouse_8506241-NationalButterflyCenter

© 2022 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com

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Tropical Kingbird - Tyrannus melancholicus — **Tropical Kingbird**
*(Tyrannus melancholicus)*

**Description:**
Tropical Kingbirds at the National Butterfly Center may be present year-round. In summer they share territory with Couch’s Kingbirds, which can only be differentiated in the field by their calls.
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**Date Taken:** 2022:09:24 18:46

**Location:**

National Butterfly Center
Mission, Texas
United States
124.68 ft above sea level

**Camera Information:**
NIKON D850, 800 mm, f/8.0, 1/5000

**File Name:** TropicalKingbird_8506227-NationalButterflyCenter

© 2022 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com

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Lyside Sulphur - Kricogonia lyside — **Lyside Sulphur**
*(Kricogonia lyside)*

**Description:**
Lyside Sulphur were just one of many butterfly species that visit the National Butterfly Center, where nearly every planting provides them with sustenance.
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**Date Taken:** 2022:09:24 11:24

**Location:**

National Butterfly Center
Mission, Texas
United States
124.68 ft above sea level

**Camera Information:**
NIKON D850, 800 mm, f/8.0, 1/2000

**File Name:** LysideSulphurButterfly_8505801-NationalButterflyCenter

© 2022 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com

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Large Orange Sulphur - Phoebis agarithe — **Large Orange Sulphur**
*(Phoebis agarithe)*

**Description:**
Large Orange Sulphurs were just one of many butterfly species that visit the National Butterfly Center, where nearly every planting provides them with sustenance.
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**Date Taken:** 2022:09:24 11:19

**Location:**

National Butterfly Center
Mission, Texas
United States
124.68 ft above sea level

**Camera Information:**
NIKON D850, 800 mm, f/8.0, 1/5000

**File Name:** LargeOrangeSulphurButterfly_8505776-NationalButterflyCenter

© 2022 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com

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Gray Hawk - Buteo plagiatus — **Gray Hawk**
*(Buteo plagiatus)*

**Description:**
Gray Hawks nest near the National Butterfly Center, and have their offspring to prove it. I found this juvenile bird having fish for dinner.
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**Date Taken:** 2022:09:24 17:37

**Location:**

National Butterfly Center
Mission, Texas
United States
124.68 ft above sea level

**Camera Information:**
NIKON D850, 800 mm, f/8.0, 1/800

**File Name:** GrayHawk_8505868-NationalButterflyCenter

© 2022 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com

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Audubon's Oriole - Icterus graduacauda — **Audubon's Oriole**
*(Icterus graduacauda)*

**Description:**
Audubon's Orioles look similar to Scott’s Orioles, and while Scott’s live in west Texas, the Lower Rio Grande Valley is the domain of the Audubon’s Orioles. The National Butterfly Center puts up hummingbird feeders, which the orioles eagerly take advantage of.
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**Date Taken:** 2022:09:24 18:36

**Location:**

National Butterfly Center
Mission, Texas
United States
124.68 ft above sea level

**Camera Information:**
NIKON D850, 800 mm, f/8.0, 1/320

**File Name:** AudubonsOriole_8506159-NationalButterflyCenter

© 2022 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com

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Plain Chachalaca - Ortalis vetula — **Plain Chachalaca**
*(Ortalis vetula)*

**Description:**
Chachalacas were so used to people here, they would almost walk over your feet if you remained still. The National Butterfly Center held a “Big Sit” event on Sunday. They invited me to join the team, and in between shifts, I walked the grounds in search of photo opportunities.
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**Date Taken:** 2021:04:25 17:31

**Location:**

National Butterfly Center
Mission, Texas
United States
121.40 ft above sea level

**Camera Information:**
NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/8.0, 1/1000

**File Name:** PlainChachalaca_D5X1612-NationalButterflyCenter

© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com

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Olive Sparrow - Arremonops rufivirgatus — **Olive Sparrow**
*(Arremonops rufivirgatus)*

**Description:**
Often unnoticed, Olive Sparrows haunt the understory of thorny woodlands. The National Butterfly Center held a “Big Sit” event on Sunday. They invited me to join the team, and in between shifts, I walked the grounds in search of photo opportunities.
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**Date Taken:** 2021:04:25 18:05

**Location:**

National Butterfly Center
Mission, Texas
United States
121.40 ft above sea level

**Camera Information:**
NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/8.0, 1/1000

**File Name:** OliveSparrow_D5X1894-NationalButterflyCenter

© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com

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Long-Billed Thrasher - Toxostoma longirostre — **Long-Billed Thrasher**
*(Toxostoma longirostre)*

**Description:**
Three thrasher species live in south Texas; mockingbirds, this bird and the Curve-Billed Thrasher. The National Butterfly Center held a “Big Sit” event on Sunday. They invited me to join the team, and in between shifts, I walked the grounds in search of photo opportunities.
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**Date Taken:** 2021:04:25 18:04

**Location:**

National Butterfly Center
Mission, Texas
United States
121.40 ft above sea level

**Camera Information:**
NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/8.0, 1/3000

**File Name:** LongBilledThrasher_D5X1870-NationalButterflyCenter

© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com

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Green Jay - Cyanocorax yncas — **Green Jay**
*(Cyanocorax yncas)*

**Description:**
Green Jays are always an interesting study. As part of The Great Texas Birding Classic, The National Butterfly Center held a “Big Sit” event on Sunday. They invited me to join the team, and in between shifts, I walked the grounds in search of photo opportunities.
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**Date Taken:** 2021:04:25 18:00

**Location:**

National Butterfly Center
Mission, Texas
United States
121.40 ft above sea level

**Camera Information:**
NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/8.0, 1/800

**File Name:** GreenJay_D5X1824-NationalButterflyCenter

© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com

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Great-Tailed Grackle - Quiscalus mexicanus — **Great-Tailed Grackle**
*(Quiscalus mexicanus)*

**Description:**
Never a shy bird, grackles are always glad to put on a show. As part of The Great Texas Birding Classic, The National Butterfly Center held a “Big Sit” event on Sunday. They invited me to join the team, and in between shifts, I walked the grounds in search of photo opportunities.
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**Date Taken:** 2021:04:25 10:32

**Location:**

National Butterfly Center
Mission, Texas
United States
121.40 ft above sea level

**Camera Information:**
NIKON D5, 400 mm, f/8.0, 1/1000

**File Name:** GreatTailedGrackle_D5X1479-NationalButterflyCenter

© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com

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Altamira Oriole - Icterus gularis — **Altamira Oriole**
*(Icterus gularis)*

**Description:**
Altamira Orioles were weaving a nest overhead from our observation circle. As part of The Great Texas Birding Classic, The National Butterfly Center held a “Big Sit” event on Sunday. They invited me to join the team, and in between shifts, I walked the grounds in search of photo opportunities.
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**Date Taken:** 2021:04:25 19:16

**Location:**

National Butterfly Center
Mission, Texas
United States
121.40 ft above sea level

**Camera Information:**
NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/8.0, 1/2000

**File Name:** AltamiraOriole_D5X2035-NationalButterflyCenter

© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com

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Black-Bellied Whistling-Duck - Dendrocygna autumnalis — **Black-Bellied Whistling-Duck**
*(Dendrocygna autumnalis)*

**Description:**
Whistling Ducks mostly flew over us, but some stayed and visited for a while. The National Butterfly Center held a “Big Sit” event on Sunday. They invited me to join the team, and in between shifts, I walked the grounds in search of photo opportunities.
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**Date Taken:** 2021:04:25 9:04

**Location:**

National Butterfly Center
Mission, Texas
United States
121.40 ft above sea level

**Camera Information:**
NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/8.0, 1/2000

**File Name:** BlackBelliedWhistlingDuck_D5X1362-NationalButterflyCenter

© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com

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White-Tipped Dove - Leptotila verreauxi — **White-Tipped Dove**
*(Leptotila verreauxi)*

**Description:**
White-Tipps were the only doves I saw at the feeding station here. For my last expedition while camped in Palmview (Texas), I drove two miles to explore the National Butterfly Center near Mission. I found it was a lovely place to meet birds and some like-minded nature lovers.
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**Date Taken:** 2021:02:25 10:48

**Location:**

National Butterfly Center
Mission, Texas
United States
127.96 ft above sea level

**Camera Information:**
NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/8.0, 1/800

**File Name:** WhiteTippedDove_D5X5502-NationalButterflyCenter

© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com

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Golden-Fronted Woodpecker - Melanerpes aurifrons — **Golden-Fronted Woodpecker**
*(Melanerpes aurifrons)*

**Description:**
South Texas has but two resident woodpeckers; this bird and the Ladder-Backed Woodpecker. As part of The Great Texas Birding Classic, The National Butterfly Center held a “Big Sit” event on Sunday. They invited me to join the team, and in between shifts, I walked the grounds in search of photo opportunities.
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**Date Taken:** 2021:04:25 17:38

**Location:**

National Butterfly Center
Mission, Texas
United States
121.40 ft above sea level

**Camera Information:**
NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/8.0, 1/800

**File Name:** GoldenFrontedWoodpecker_D5X1660-NationalButterflyCenter

© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com

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Carolina Wren - Thryothorus ludovicianus — **Carolina Wren**
*(Thryothorus ludovicianus)*

**Description:**
Carolina Wrens are the primary representatives of the ‘wren clan’ in south Texas. Their inquisitive nature makes them easier to find here than some of the shier species.
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**Date Taken:** 2022:09:24 18:10

**Location:**

National Butterfly Center
Mission, Texas
United States
124.68 ft above sea level

**Camera Information:**
NIKON D850, 800 mm, f/8.0, 1/500

**File Name:** CarolinaWren_8506024-NationalButterflyCenter

© 2022 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com

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Black-Chinned Hummingbird - Archilochus alexandri — **Black-Chinned Hummingbird**
*(Archilochus alexandri)*

**Description:**
Black-Chinned Hummingbirds migrate though south Texas, and the National Butterfly Center puts up feeders for their sugary jet-fuel needs.
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**Date Taken:** 2022:09:24 18:25

**Location:**

National Butterfly Center
Mission, Texas
United States
124.68 ft above sea level

**Camera Information:**
NIKON D850, 800 mm, f/8.0, 1/640

**File Name:** BlackChinnedHummingbird_8506071-NationalButterflyCenter

© 2022 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com

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Northern Cardinal - Cardinalis cardinalis — **Northern Cardinal**
*(Cardinalis cardinalis)*

**Description:**
California doesn’t see many Northern Cardinals, though they are well represented in Arizona. Here at the National Butterfly Center, as well as most of the eastern United States, they are well loved members of most communities here.
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**Date Taken:** 2022:09:25 9:09

**Location:**

National Butterfly Center
Mission, Texas
United States
124.68 ft above sea level

**Camera Information:**
NIKON D850, 800 mm, f/8.0, 1/250

**File Name:** NorthernCardinal_8506284-NationalButterflyCenter

© 2022 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com

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White-Fronted Parrot - Amazona albifrons — **White-Fronted Parrot**
*(Amazona albifrons)*

**Description:**
We could not count this non-native bird, but that didn’t mean we couldn’t enjoy its visit. The National Butterfly Center held a “Big Sit” event on Sunday. They invited me to join the team, and in between shifts, I walked the grounds in search of photo opportunities.
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**Date Taken:** 2021:04:25 8:22

**Location:**

National Butterfly Center
Mission, Texas
United States
121.40 ft above sea level

**Camera Information:**
NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/8.0, 1/6000

**File Name:** WhiteFrontedParrot_D5X1280-NationalButterflyCenter

© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com

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Lincoln's Sparrow - Melospiza lincolnii — **Lincoln's Sparrow**
*(Melospiza lincolnii)*

**Description:**
Sparrows, such as this Lincoln’s lurked in the brush and undergrowth on the property. For my last expedition while camped in Palmview (Texas), I drove two miles to explore the National Butterfly Center near Mission. I found it was a lovely place to meet birds and some like-minded nature lovers.
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**Date Taken:** 2021:02:25 10:34

**Location:**

National Butterfly Center
Mission, Texas
United States
127.96 ft above sea level

**Camera Information:**
NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/8.0, 1/1000

**File Name:** LincolnsSparrow-D5X5402-NationalButterflyCenter

© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com

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Hispid Cotton Rat - Sigmodon hispidus — **Hispid Cotton Rat**
*(Sigmodon hispidus)*

**Description:**
Cotton Rats are a common prey item for predatory birds. The National Butterfly Center held a “Big Sit” event on Sunday. They invited me to join the team, and in between shifts, I walked the grounds in search of photo opportunities.
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**Date Taken:** 2021:04:25 18:18

**Location:**

National Butterfly Center
Mission, Texas
United States
121.40 ft above sea level

**Camera Information:**
NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/8.0, 1/1500

**File Name:** HispidCottonRat_D5X1965-NationalButterflyCenter

© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com

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Eastern Fox Squirrel - Sciurus niger — **Eastern Fox Squirrel**
*(Sciurus niger)*

**Description:**
It wasn’t a part of our target species for the contest, but I couldn't resist capturing it as it quenched its thirst. As part of The Great Texas Birding Classic, The National Butterfly Center held a “Big Sit” event on Sunday. They invited me to join the team, and in between shifts, I walked the grounds in search of photo opportunities.
Read More

**Date Taken:** 2021:04:25 18:08

**Location:**

National Butterfly Center
Mission, Texas
United States
121.40 ft above sea level

**Camera Information:**
NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/8.0, 1/1500

**File Name:** EasternFoxSquirrel_D5X1912-NationalButterflyCenter

© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com

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Eastern Cottontail - Sylvilagus floridanus — **Eastern Cottontail**
*(Sylvilagus floridanus)*

**Description:**
This bunny looks similar to our Desert Cottontail in the west, but it wasn’t a part of our target species for the contest. As part of The Great Texas Birding Classic, The National Butterfly Center held a “Big Sit” event on Sunday. They invited me to join the team, and in between shifts, I walked the grounds in search of photo opportunities.
Read More

**Date Taken:** 2021:04:25 10:37

**Location:**

National Butterfly Center
Mission, Texas
United States
121.40 ft above sea level

**Camera Information:**
NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/8.0, 1/800

**File Name:** EasternCottontail_D5X1515-NationalButterflyCenter

© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com

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Ruby-Throated Hummingbird - Archilochus colubris — **Ruby-Throated Hummingbird**
*(Archilochus colubris)*

**Description:**
Ruby-Throated Hummingbirds migrate though south Texas, and the National Butterfly Center puts up feeders for their sugary jet-fuel needs.
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**Date Taken:** 2022:09:24 17:48

**Location:**

National Butterfly Center
Mission, Texas
United States
124.68 ft above sea level

**Camera Information:**
NIKON D850, 800 mm, f/8.0, 1/4000

**File Name:** RubyThroatedHummingbird_8505959-NationalButterflyCenter

© 2022 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com

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Great Kiskadee - Pitangus sulphuratus — **Great Kiskadee**
*(Pitangus sulphuratus)*

**Description:**
Great Kiskadees sound off loudly, and here at the National Butterfly Center, like most places in south Texas, their calls echo constantly through the woods.
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**Date Taken:** 2022:09:24 18:37

**Location:**

National Butterfly Center
Mission, Texas
United States
124.68 ft above sea level

**Camera Information:**
NIKON D850, 800 mm, f/8.0, 1/3200

**File Name:** GreatKiskadee_8506167-NationalButterflyCenter

© 2022 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com

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Curve-Billed Thrasher - Toxostoma curvirostre — **Curve-Billed Thrasher**
*(Toxostoma curvirostre)*

**Description:**
Even the local thrashers enjoyed the food offered by staff here after the recent deep freeze in south Texas. For my last expedition while camped in Palmview (Texas), I drove two miles to explore the National Butterfly Center near Mission. I found it was a lovely place to meet birds and some like-minded nature lovers.
Read More

**Date Taken:** 2021:02:25 10:35

**Location:**

National Butterfly Center
Mission, Texas
United States
127.96 ft above sea level

**Camera Information:**
NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/8.0, 1/800

**File Name:** CurveBilledThrasher_D5X5430-NationalButterflyCenter

© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com

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Orange-Crowned Warbler - Leiothlypis celata — **Orange-Crowned Warbler**
*(Leiothlypis celata)*

**Description:**
Orange-Crowned and Yellow-Rumps were the only warblers I met here. For my last expedition while camped in Palmview (Texas), I drove two miles to explore the National Butterfly Center near Mission. I found it was a lovely place to meet birds and some like-minded nature lovers.
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**Date Taken:** 2021:02:25 10:07

**Location:**

National Butterfly Center
Mission, Texas
United States
127.96 ft above sea level

**Camera Information:**
NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/8.0, 1/2000

**File Name:** OrangeCrownedWarbler_D5X5388-NationalButterflyCenter

© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com

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Hooded Oriole - Icterus cucullatus — **Hooded Oriole**
*(Icterus cucullatus)*

**Description:**
Hooded Orioles aren’t known to spend winters in Texas. This young lady may have been lost. For my last expedition while camped in Palmview (Texas), I drove two miles to explore the National Butterfly Center near Mission. I found it was a lovely place to meet birds and some like-minded nature lovers.
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**Date Taken:** 2021:02:25 10:55

**Location:**

National Butterfly Center
Mission, Texas
United States
127.96 ft above sea level

**Camera Information:**
NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/8.0, 1/800

**File Name:** HoodedOriole_D5X5523-NationalButterflyCenter

© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com

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Red-Winged Blackbird - Agelaius phoeniceus — **Red-Winged Blackbird**
*(Agelaius phoeniceus)*

**Description:**
Bachelor male Red-Wings were present all day here, and never far from the feeding station. For my last expedition while camped in Palmview (Texas), I drove two miles to explore the National Butterfly Center near Mission. I found it was a lovely place to meet birds and some like-minded nature lovers.
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**Date Taken:** 2021:02:25 12:43

**Location:**

National Butterfly Center
Mission, Texas
United States
127.96 ft above sea level

**Camera Information:**
NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/8.0, 1/1000

**File Name:** RedWingedBlackbird_D5X6250-NationalButterflyCenter

© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com

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White-Crowned Sparrow - Zonotrichia leucophrys — **White-Crowned Sparrow**
*(Zonotrichia leucophrys)*

**Description:**
This 1st winter sparrow found the food on the ground at the feeding station worthwhile. For my last expedition while camped in Palmview (Texas), I drove two miles to explore the National Butterfly Center near Mission. I found it was a lovely place to meet birds and some like-minded nature lovers.
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**Date Taken:** 2021:02:25 12:22

**Location:**

National Butterfly Center
Mission, Texas
United States
127.96 ft above sea level

**Camera Information:**
NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/8.0, 1/2000

**File Name:** WhiteCrownedSparrow_D5X5902-NationalButterflyCenter

© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com

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Black-Headed Grosbeak - Pheucticus melanocephalus — **Black-Headed Grosbeak**
*(Pheucticus melanocephalus)*

**Description:**
This winter visitor to south Texas survived the recent cold weather, partially because of the kindness of the staff who provided food here. For my last expedition while camped in Palmview (Texas), I drove two miles to explore the National Butterfly Center near Mission. I found it was a lovely place to meet birds and some like-minded nature lovers.
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**Date Taken:** 2021:02:25 10:44

**Location:**

National Butterfly Center
Mission, Texas
United States
127.96 ft above sea level

**Camera Information:**
NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/8.0, 1/800

**File Name:** BlackHeadedGrosbeak_D5X5496-NationalButterflyCenter

© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com

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White Checkered-Skipper - Pyrgus albescens — **White Checkered-Skipper**
*(Pyrgus albescens)*

**Description:**
Presence of these and other small butterflies, following a recent deep-freeze, proved how resilient nature can be. For my last expedition while camped in Palmview (Texas), I drove two miles to explore the National Butterfly Center near Mission. I found it was a lovely place to meet birds and some like-minded nature lovers.
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**Date Taken:** 2021:02:25 11:25

**Location:**

National Butterfly Center
Mission, Texas
United States
127.96 ft above sea level

**Camera Information:**
NIKON D5, 800 mm, f/8.0, 1/4000

**File Name:** WhiteCheckeredSkipper-Butterfly_D5X5646-NationalButterflyCenter

© 2021 Jack Daynes, shadeTreeImaging.com

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Click map markers to reveal further information

Eastern Screech-Owl

Megascops asio

Eastern Screech-Owls haunt the grounds at the National Butterfly Center, but they don’t always show themselves. Several times, I walked past this location without seeing the bird. I was grateful it finally popped up to say hello.

2024 NBC Big Sit Team

Selene Shores, Roy Rodgers, Nestor Hernandez, Joe Salazar, Ryan Rodriguez, Jack Daynes, Kristy Baker, Amanda Hernandez. Not pictured: Luciano Guerra and Judy Salinas

2024 NBC Big Sit Team

Ryan Rodriguez taking the high road.

White-Winged Dove

Zenaida asiatica

White-Winged Doves at the National Butterfly Center are shy, but they know when the feeders are refilled. Though they may not rush right in, the lure of the seeds gives them the courage to overcome their shyness.

Buff-Bellied Hummingbird

Amazilia yucatanensis

Buff-Bellied Hummingbirds are the most common hummingbird in south Texas. Here at the National Butterfly Center in Mission Texas, they seem to have a year-round presence.

Black-Crested Titmouse

Baeolophus atricristatus

Typical among the various members of the Titmouse clan, Black-Crested Titmouse behaves at feeders like a thief; snatching a morsel, and quickly retreating to some nearby hidden perch to hammer open the seeds it loves.

Tropical Kingbird

Tyrannus melancholicus

Tropical Kingbirds at the National Butterfly Center may be present year-round. In summer they share territory with Couch’s Kingbirds, which can only be differentiated in the field by their calls.

Lyside Sulphur

Kricogonia lyside

Lyside Sulphur were just one of many butterfly species that visit the National Butterfly Center, where nearly every planting provides them with sustenance.

Large Orange Sulphur

Phoebis agarithe

Large Orange Sulphurs were just one of many butterfly species that visit the National Butterfly Center, where nearly every planting provides them with sustenance.

Gray Hawk

Buteo plagiatus

Gray Hawks nest near the National Butterfly Center, and have their offspring to prove it. I found this juvenile bird having fish for dinner.

Audubon's Oriole

Icterus graduacauda

Audubon's Orioles look similar to Scott’s Orioles, and while Scott’s live in west Texas, the Lower Rio Grande Valley is the domain of the Audubon’s Orioles. The National Butterfly Center puts up hummingbird feeders, which the orioles eagerly take advantage of.

Plain Chachalaca

Ortalis vetula

Chachalacas were so used to people here, they would almost walk over your feet if you remained still. The National Butterfly Center held a “Big Sit” event on Sunday. They invited me to join the team, and in between shifts, I walked the grounds in search of photo opportunities.

Olive Sparrow

Arremonops rufivirgatus

Often unnoticed, Olive Sparrows haunt the understory of thorny woodlands. The National Butterfly Center held a “Big Sit” event on Sunday. They invited me to join the team, and in between shifts, I walked the grounds in search of photo opportunities.

Long-Billed Thrasher

Toxostoma longirostre

Three thrasher species live in south Texas; mockingbirds, this bird and the Curve-Billed Thrasher. The National Butterfly Center held a “Big Sit” event on Sunday. They invited me to join the team, and in between shifts, I walked the grounds in search of photo opportunities.

Green Jay

Cyanocorax yncas

Green Jays are always an interesting study. As part of The Great Texas Birding Classic, The National Butterfly Center held a “Big Sit” event on Sunday. They invited me to join the team, and in between shifts, I walked the grounds in search of photo opportunities.

Long-Billed Thrasher

Toxostoma longirostre

Great-Tailed Grackle

Quiscalus mexicanus

Never a shy bird, grackles are always glad to put on a show. As part of The Great Texas Birding Classic, The National Butterfly Center held a “Big Sit” event on Sunday. They invited me to join the team, and in between shifts, I walked the grounds in search of photo opportunities.

Altamira Oriole

Icterus gularis

Altamira Orioles were weaving a nest overhead from our observation circle. As part of The Great Texas Birding Classic, The National Butterfly Center held a “Big Sit” event on Sunday. They invited me to join the team, and in between shifts, I walked the grounds in search of photo opportunities.

Black-Bellied Whistling-Duck

Dendrocygna autumnalis

Whistling Ducks mostly flew over us, but some stayed and visited for a while. The National Butterfly Center held a “Big Sit” event on Sunday. They invited me to join the team, and in between shifts, I walked the grounds in search of photo opportunities.

White-Tipped Dove

Leptotila verreauxi

White-Tipps were the only doves I saw at the feeding station here. For my last expedition while camped in Palmview (Texas), I drove two miles to explore the National Butterfly Center near Mission. I found it was a lovely place to meet birds and some like-minded nature lovers.

Golden-Fronted Woodpecker

Melanerpes aurifrons

South Texas has but two resident woodpeckers; this bird and the Ladder-Backed Woodpecker. As part of The Great Texas Birding Classic, The National Butterfly Center held a “Big Sit” event on Sunday. They invited me to join the team, and in between shifts, I walked the grounds in search of photo opportunities.

Long-Billed Thrasher

Toxostoma longirostre

Carolina Wren

Thryothorus ludovicianus

Carolina Wrens are the primary representatives of the ‘wren clan’ in south Texas. Their inquisitive nature makes them easier to find here than some of the shier species.

Black-Chinned Hummingbird

Archilochus alexandri

Black-Chinned Hummingbirds migrate though south Texas, and the National Butterfly Center puts up feeders for their sugary jet-fuel needs.

Northern Cardinal

Cardinalis cardinalis

California doesn’t see many Northern Cardinals, though they are well represented in Arizona. Here at the National Butterfly Center, as well as most of the eastern United States, they are well loved members of most communities here.

White-Fronted Parrot

Amazona albifrons

We could not count this non-native bird, but that didn’t mean we couldn’t enjoy its visit. The National Butterfly Center held a “Big Sit” event on Sunday. They invited me to join the team, and in between shifts, I walked the grounds in search of photo opportunities.

Gray Hawk

Buteo plagiatus

Gray Hawks nest near the National Butterfly Center, and have their offspring to prove it.

Black-Chinned Hummingbird

Archilochus alexandri

Black-Chinned Hummingbirds migrate though south Texas, and the National Butterfly Center puts up feeders for their sugary jet-fuel needs.

Lincoln's Sparrow

Melospiza lincolnii

Sparrows, such as this Lincoln’s lurked in the brush and undergrowth on the property. For my last expedition while camped in Palmview (Texas), I drove two miles to explore the National Butterfly Center near Mission. I found it was a lovely place to meet birds and some like-minded nature lovers.

Hispid Cotton Rat

Sigmodon hispidus

Cotton Rats are a common prey item for predatory birds. The National Butterfly Center held a “Big Sit” event on Sunday. They invited me to join the team, and in between shifts, I walked the grounds in search of photo opportunities.

Eastern Fox Squirrel

Sciurus niger

It wasn’t a part of our target species for the contest, but I couldn't resist capturing it as it quenched its thirst. As part of The Great Texas Birding Classic, The National Butterfly Center held a “Big Sit” event on Sunday. They invited me to join the team, and in between shifts, I walked the grounds in search of photo opportunities.

Eastern Cottontail

Sylvilagus floridanus

This bunny looks similar to our Desert Cottontail in the west, but it wasn’t a part of our target species for the contest. As part of The Great Texas Birding Classic, The National Butterfly Center held a “Big Sit” event on Sunday. They invited me to join the team, and in between shifts, I walked the grounds in search of photo opportunities.

Ruby-Throated Hummingbird

Archilochus colubris

Ruby-Throated Hummingbirds migrate though south Texas, and the National Butterfly Center puts up feeders for their sugary jet-fuel needs.

Great Kiskadee

Pitangus sulphuratus

Great Kiskadees sound off loudly, and here at the National Butterfly Center, like most places in south Texas, their calls echo constantly through the woods.

White-Winged Dove

Zenaida asiatica

White-Tipped Dove

Leptotila verreauxi

White-Tipped Doves are ground-loving birds that sometimes wander from the thickets at the National Butterfly Center, to let observers get a peek at them.

Long-Billed Thrasher

Toxostoma longirostre

Perhaps the only thing preventing the Long-Billed Thrasher from status as a south Texas icon, is its shy nature, like this bird at the National Butterfly Center.

White-Winged Dove

Zenaida asiatica

White-Winged Doves are a favorite of mine. The National Butterfly Center held a “Big Sit” event on Sunday. They invited me to join the team, and in between shifts, I walked the grounds in search of photo opportunities.

Ruby-Throated Hummingbird

Archilochus colubris

There were feeders hanging in many places around the grounds, but sometimes a real flower is just the ticket. The National Butterfly Center held a “Big Sit” event on Sunday. They invited me to join the team, and in between shifts, I walked the grounds in search of photo opportunities.

Golden-Fronted Woodpecker

Melanerpes aurifrons

Woodpeckers seemed to enjoy the fare at the feeding station here. For my last expedition while camped in Palmview (Texas), I drove two miles to explore the National Butterfly Center near Mission. I found it was a lovely place to meet birds and some like-minded nature lovers.

Altamira Oriole

Icterus gularis

These resident orioles appreciated the food offerings the staff provided. For my last expedition while camped in Palmview (Texas), I drove two miles to explore the National Butterfly Center near Mission. I found it was a lovely place to meet birds and some like-minded nature lovers.

Audubon's Oriole

Icterus graduacauda

Curve-Billed Thrasher

Toxostoma curvirostre

Even the local thrashers enjoyed the food offered by staff here after the recent deep freeze in south Texas. For my last expedition while camped in Palmview (Texas), I drove two miles to explore the National Butterfly Center near Mission. I found it was a lovely place to meet birds and some like-minded nature lovers.

Orange-Crowned Warbler

Leiothlypis celata

Orange-Crowned and Yellow-Rumps were the only warblers I met here. For my last expedition while camped in Palmview (Texas), I drove two miles to explore the National Butterfly Center near Mission. I found it was a lovely place to meet birds and some like-minded nature lovers.

Hooded Oriole

Icterus cucullatus

Hooded Orioles aren’t known to spend winters in Texas. This young lady may have been lost. For my last expedition while camped in Palmview (Texas), I drove two miles to explore the National Butterfly Center near Mission. I found it was a lovely place to meet birds and some like-minded nature lovers.

Red-Winged Blackbird

Agelaius phoeniceus

Bachelor male Red-Wings were present all day here, and never far from the feeding station. For my last expedition while camped in Palmview (Texas), I drove two miles to explore the National Butterfly Center near Mission. I found it was a lovely place to meet birds and some like-minded nature lovers.

White-Crowned Sparrow

Zonotrichia leucophrys

This 1st winter sparrow found the food on the ground at the feeding station worthwhile. For my last expedition while camped in Palmview (Texas), I drove two miles to explore the National Butterfly Center near Mission. I found it was a lovely place to meet birds and some like-minded nature lovers.

Black-Headed Grosbeak

Pheucticus melanocephalus

This winter visitor to south Texas survived the recent cold weather, partially because of the kindness of the staff who provided food here. For my last expedition while camped in Palmview (Texas), I drove two miles to explore the National Butterfly Center near Mission. I found it was a lovely place to meet birds and some like-minded nature lovers.

Olive Sparrow

Arremonops rufivirgatus

Sparrows, such as this Olive Sparrow lurked in the brush and undergrowth on the property. For my last expedition while camped in Palmview (Texas), I drove two miles to explore the National Butterfly Center near Mission. I found it was a lovely place to meet birds and some like-minded nature lovers.

Audubon's Oriole

Icterus graduacauda

Black-Headed Grosbeak

Pheucticus melanocephalus

Green Jay

Cyanocorax yncas

Green Jays visiting the feeding station in waves were always entertaining. For my last expedition while camped in Palmview (Texas), I drove two miles to explore the National Butterfly Center near Mission. I found it was a lovely place to meet birds and some like-minded nature lovers.

Northern Cardinal

Cardinalis cardinalis

Cardinals abound in south Texas, and this place was no exception. For my last expedition while camped in Palmview (Texas), I drove two miles to explore the National Butterfly Center near Mission. I found it was a lovely place to meet birds and some like-minded nature lovers.

White Checkered-Skipper

Pyrgus albescens

Presence of these and other small butterflies, following a recent deep-freeze, proved how resilient nature can be. For my last expedition while camped in Palmview (Texas), I drove two miles to explore the National Butterfly Center near Mission. I found it was a lovely place to meet birds and some like-minded nature lovers.