February 26, 2010 | 
Author 
Winner - Zeb Acuff, for Tri-State Bird Rescue & Research
We had another lively contest with seven participants vying for the $10 prize for their favorite wildlife/conservation/nature charity. Zeb Acuff has won the contest, answering all of the questions correctly – though I stumped everyone on the bonus question. ;-0 Zeb has chosen Tri-State Bird Rescue & Research to receive the $10 donation in his name. I have just enough time to put this up before heading to Austin, TX for the weekend – will see what the birds are doing a little further south!
Picture 1 | Plano, TX | Tufted Titmouse (Baeolophus bicolor)
Picture 1: What a cutie! (Not a hint, just an opinion 
)
Answer: Tufted Titmouse (Baeolophus bicolor)
Picture 2 | Plano, TX |Gall
Picture 2: What are these objects commonly called, and what is the significance of that hole?
Answer: These are commonly referred to as “galls,” formed when an insect (usually a wasp) stings a leaf to produce this effect. The wasp lays its eggs inside, and the hole is where the adult wasps exit. Actually, I’m not sure if it is a single egg or several…anyone want to clarify?
Picture 3 | Plano, TX | Genus = Quercus
Picture 3: This acorn comes from a common type of tree – name the Genus
Answer: This acorn comes from an oak tree, Genus Quercus. I believe this is an acorn from a Burr Oak tree, Quercus macrocarpa.
Bonus Question: Look closely at the picture below, and tell me how many birds (they are Meadowlarks – not a trick question) – you see.
Picture 3 | Plano, TX | 8 birds
Posted in Challenge for Charity
Congratulations Zeb!
That’s very interesting about the ‘galls’. I’d never heard of them before.
Congratulations, Zeb! And that’s a great charity indeed.
Congrats Zeb! Wow, the bonus question was tougher than I thought.
Sneaky bonus question
Glad they weren’t snakes with me out there among them
My congrats to you, too, Zeb! And to everyone, I know the bonus question was tough…and the moment I saw the picture, I knew I had to use it!