Tuesday, February 28, 2017

Still Chilly Air

The purple crocus is in bloom on the south side of my front yard.  An early fly instantly flew in to enjoy the sweet nectar.



Out at a nearby wetland, I found camellia bushes with many flowers.



One 2nd year Bald Eagle was surveying the early spring reservoirs.


"Still chilly, but the winter has already passed."

Thursday, February 23, 2017

Spring Visitors

On a clear day between the rain, a large flock of Trumpeter Swans were moving south to another feeding spot.





Once in a while, Eurasian Doves stop by.  

"I need to watch out when a human is around."


Recently I found up to four Golden-crowned Sparrows feeding at my backyard.


"The fallen suet is delicious."


Wednesday, February 15, 2017

Spring Is Here

It has warmed up.  When I peeked out of the window, aha, to my surprise yellow crocus were already in bloom.



I heard Bewick's Wren serenading his love song.



Later he was picking up the fallen suet on the ground.  His tail is so cute.




Wednesday, February 8, 2017

The Tubal Feeder

Anna's Hummingbirds live around here all the year around.  I have several kinds of feeders hanging in the backyard.    This is a flat type of feeder:  several hummers can drink at the same time.   But being so territorial only one hummer at the time so far has used it.

"I am the only one at this feeder; 
no one is allowed to drink near me!"


The tubal feeder seems to be very popular with Anna's females.  I hang up the feeder right next to the swing.  She likes to sit and slurp!


"I like the swing and feeder set.  It's ready 
for drink and it's safe to look around."


The feeder emptied fast.  I replaced it with another tubal feeder.


"Take a good picture of me."

Friday, February 3, 2017

Two Generations

Cooper's Hawks frequent many backyards with bird feeders.  One afternoon when I was watching the birds behind the camouflage curtain, one matured Cooper's Hawk just landed on a pear tree branch and came out to the metal feeder in front.


"I am a matured hawk with the bluish gray back and red eyes.   
Even an experienced hunter takes time to find some food."

Another day I saw one surveying the backyard from a branch of the maple tree.


"I just heard a tweety bird.  I am immature 
with the brown back and yellow eyes."



"Wow, someone is down there."