More Mockingbird / Shrike Plumage Speculations

[norman]

I would have replied earlier, but these machines ("computers") oftimes mimic reliable devices ..

My recent musings on plumage mimicry among these local species -- and I obviously wasn't clear on the specifics of my reveries-- involved the selective advantages the mocker might derive from its morphological similarity to the two species of shrikes which intermittently inhabit this area.

Northern Mockingbirds are now common in Southern Ontario ; they are known for their pugnacity toward other   (non-raptorial) avians, and this unusual mimid's habit of aggressively securing and vigorously defending a winter territory here (they are masters of frugivory in winter, when the invertebrate menu is comparatively negligible) also makes them a force to be reckoned with at feeders (where, I assure  you,  more than one Northern Shrike lingers) and, presumably, on territory during all seaons. There are, I suspect, many advantages to appearing shrike-like to any competitors for nesting / feeding territories year-round to our newest permanent resident.

Hope this clarifies my thoughts on the matter. Just something to think about ... if you wish to

Oh. My aunt is doing fine, and responding to voices or relatives. Thanks to those who expressed concern.

--Norman