Spring Is Coming

This Saturday the Chinese celebrate their New Year (arrival of spring by lunar calendar).  It is the Year of the Rooster.   

The birds seem to know the tough part of the winter season is over.  At the nearby wetland I could feel the commotions of the bird activities.

A Lincoln's Sparrow greeted me at the entrance.

The Trumpeter Swans were resting at a far away pond. 

The Red-wing Blackbirds were yodeling already.

The majestic Red-tailed Hawk was observing all over the pond.

After the Snow

Finally the snow and ice has disappeared.  Safe driving is now available for people; safe flying is for birds.

The Anna's Hummingbird is back at the usual perch.

"I like the warmer temperature.  No more frozen juice."

The Ruby-crowned Kinglet came close to the patio.

"I can fly to wherever I want.   No more blizzard to fight with."

The Chestnut-backed Chickadee is as chirpy as before.

"Now everyone is at his/her usual place."

A Winter Visitor

The snow last week has been frozen due to the prolonging below freezing temperature.  The morning temp was at 7 degrees F, colder than shown below.

Around this time of the year, Varied Thrush sometimes stops over at my backyard.  When I was thinking about the bird, I just saw a female pecking seeds behind the snow mound.

"I am about the size of  American 

Robin, but have a different color pattern."

"Here is a splash of powder snow!"

Wisdom in the Cold

The ice has covered over everything for past one week.　It's been chilly.  I admire the animals and birds for their ability to survive in the severe climatic conditions.　Here is the wisdom I found watching them.

Wisdom #1

Gray Squirrel:　"When you are thirsty, just lick it."

Wisdom #2

Ruby-crowned Kinglet:  "In the cold, just go to where the food is for sure."

Wisdom #3

House Finch, male;  "Eat even the sour berries in the scarce time.

Happy New Year

Birds are tough in the cold temperature.   Even when I am bundled up, I feel very cold outside while taking photos.   (Through the double or triple paned windows, I cannot take a clear photo.  I need to be out to take a bird photo.)

Male Anna's Hummingbird

"A message from all of us birds:  Happy New Year!"

Male Northern Flicker

Male Spotted Towhee