Peregrines are pretty rare around here. The only falcons I ever see are little kestrels, which we call sparrow hawks. About 50% bigger than a mourning dove. A lot of people post pics of their backyard "peregrines" on blogs and facebook, but to me these always seem to look like regular old cooper's hawks or sharp shins.
Robins are about the most annoying bird around. They are very territorial and put their nests way too close to our house. Plus, they eat worms! I want those worms left alone.
Flickers in bright sunlight are exquisite. I've always called them groundpeckers. Sure, they eat worms too, but there are probably 200 robins for every flicker. I love that beautiful cream breast with black dots. Male Sparrow hawks also have a breast like that. Also drake green wing teal.
Cardinals are probably my favorite songbird. They are polite and cheerful and love the lilac in the corner of the yard.
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