Bald eagles differ in size. The female is the larger of the two. She constructs the nest using the material her mate brings to her.

According to the National Audubon Society, female birds are “the most under-appreciated birds in the world” (Aug. 3, 2023).

Furthermore, in the same article, National Audubon argues that this is a fact “that undermines not only conservation, but also fundamental ecological, environmental and evolutionary science.” These statements made me think that a photo tribute to some of our female birds was in order. Instead of getting short shrift, they truly do deserve our full attention.

There are usually striking contrasts between males and females of the same avian species. These contrasts include such characteristics as nest building, color, size and singing.

In terms of size, the female is often larger than the male. Female bald eagles, for example, are much larger than their male partners. Most females have a much more subdued wardrobe compared to their male counterparts. In cases, like the belted kingfisher and the phalarope, however, it is the females that are the flashy ones, while the males are drabber, or like the northern harrier, a totally different color. The male harrier is ghostly in appearance with its various shades of gray. The female, on the other hand, wears brown. Both have a white rump that is clearly visible in flight.

Nest building is an onerous task, and many female birds do it all. Many select the site, build the nest, lay the eggs, incubate them, and feed the young. Some, like the downy woodpecker female are lucky as they have a mate that will pitch in and help with all the tasks. Singing is generally a male bird’s task! It is used to attract a mate and to defend and advertise its territory. Female grosbeaks, however, also sing on the nest. Perhaps it is a warning to other grosbeaks in the area that this territory is taken!

It seems, as though, the females might be the heroes of the bird world. Many can and do, do it all. This article offers a toast to these fascinating women! Happy birding.