A Very Real Bird Indeed

So bright is their coloration that whenever an image of a Painted Bunting is displayed, if there is any person present who has not previously seen or heard of them, one particular comment will almost certainly be heard: “That’s not a real bird; that’s an enhanced photo!”

Wingscapes BirdCam Photo Gallery contributor “K” from Amelia Island, Florida was kind enough recently to submit an image of both a male and female of the species. The green foliage behind the male gives a clue as to why it is colored as brightly as it is (to be visible to the females in their nesting habitat areas).