I think that in SOME instances, photos won't be that helpful in determing an ID of a bird, depending on the quality, angles and light of the photo. In the case of empids, everything I've read said that most IDs can not be assured without hearing the voice. *Sometimes, * the amount of debate that goes on based purely on photos seems to be overkill/a waste of time. However, a clear, close up photo of a bird that doesn't resemble a lot of other species can be very helpful. Using photos and comparing them to my guides is how I learned to ID many birds. Jennifer Milwaukee Cty On Aug 21, 2012 6:41 AM, "Al Schirmacher" <alschirmacher@xxxxxxxx> wrote: > While I enjoy warbler quizzes (far more than empid quizzes!), this series > of photos brings a discussion point to mind: > > * Relying on photos as the ultimate identification tool is nearly as > fraught with peril as a written description. > > Yet it is so tempting! > > Al Schirmacher > Columbus, WI temporarily > Princeton, MN again next week > > PS Many thanks to Wisbirders for their recommendations, directions and > encouragement during my return to Wisconsin. Had the opportunity to get > away on occasion to a variety of spots from Horicon to Madison, resulting > in 100+ birds and 30+ butterflies, including a life bird, two state birds > and six year birds. Mom passed yesterday, anticipate returning to > Minnesota Sunday. > > Special thanks to Peter Fissel, he's a trooper! > > #################### > You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin > Birding Network (Wisbirdn). > To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: > //www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: > //www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn > Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: //www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn > > > #################### You received this email because you are subscribed to the Wisconsin Birding Network (Wisbirdn). To UNSUBSCRIBE or SUBSCRIBE, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: //www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn To set DIGEST or VACATION modes, use the Wisbirdn web interface at: //www.freelists.org/list/wisbirdn Visit Wisbirdn ARCHIVES at: //www.freelists.org/archives/wisbirdn