Feeding observations of the western Yellow-breasted Chat in the south Okanagan valley British Columbia, Canada during a seven-year study period

René McKibbin and Christine A Bishop1

Environment Canada, 5421 Robertson Rd., Delta, B.C.  V4K 3N2;   e-mail: rene.mckibbin@ec.gc.ca and cab.bishop@ec.gc.ca
1 Corresponding Author

Abstract:  We observed a breeding female Yellow-breasted Chat (Icteria virens auricollis) eating rose petals, in the south Okanagan valley of British Columbia, Canada. We also observed nestlings and fledglings being fed Saskatoon berries. These foods could be appropriate sources of required nutrients, particularly calcium, carbohydrates and iron as well as antioxidants. The observations were made during a research program in 2001 – 2007, on the breeding success and habitat needs of the western population of the species, which is endangered in Canada.

Key words: Yellow-breasted Chat, Icteria virens auricollis, rose petals, Saskatoon berries

PDFicon McKibbin, R. and C.A. Bishop. 2008. Feeding Observations of the western Yellow-breasted Chat in the south Okanagan valley, British Columbia, Canada during a seven-year study period. British Columbia Birds 18:24-25.

 

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