It is not hard to tell when the pine nuts are ready to be harvested! All of a sudden we are "blessed" with the screeching voices of numerous Pinyon Jays and Clark's Nutcracker's as they return from higher elevations. I am not sure how they choose the date but when they arrive, they arrive by the busload, it seems!
Look at the bill on this Pinyon Jay, above. Doesn't that look like it is the perfect tool for digging seeds from pine cones?
In pine cone heaven!
Upside down is a classic position for the Pinyons during harvest.
The Clark's Nutcrackers tend to be more solitary most of the year but they are willing to be social not only with other Nutcrackers during harvest time, but also with the Pinyons.
This Clark's Nutcracker - above - has a pine nut in his bill. He will probably stash the seed for later consumption. If he can't remember where he buried the seed it may well turn into a new pine tree instead of a meal.
Working hard!
This guy almost looks like he is eating in bed!
There are lots of nuts to go around. At least for the next week or two!
This guy almost looks like he is eating in bed!
There are lots of nuts to go around. At least for the next week or two!
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