Summer Couples

In Oregon, the temperature has soared to the extreme at this time.  Yesterday was a little above 100F and for today and tomorrow it is expected to be 113 F or so.  We did grocery shopping very early today to search for canning jar lids, which are in short supply at this time.  Since I could not find any, I bought a set of canning jars with the lids.  

In my backyard, I can see many butterflies flying around in the very hot temperature when birds are taking a nap in the shade.  There are a couple of Cabbage Patch Butterflies hanging around together.  They especially like these purple flowers.

Back at the wetlands, here are Great Egrets dancing together the other day.

"Ta, ta...  We are ballerinas."

A couple of Cinnamon Teal ducks were on the water.  

"She is shy, but I can pose for your photos."

Three in the Family

 The season for lavenders.  Butterflies love their nectar.

For many years, one or two Bewick's Wrens have visited my backyard.  But today was a special day:  three of them were here.  Just count one, two, and three in total!

"We are a big family this summer."

Out at the wetland, I found a young House Wren.

"Hi, I am a House Wren.  I 'd rather live 

in the wild place.  I can hide better."

Very Tiny Birds

 Between the temperature fluctuations, a male Rufous Hummingbird came in with the hot air current.

"Yeah, the hot weather is back.  I ride in the hot air current."

"The hot lips are finally in bloom here.  I love this nectar!"

Here is a male Anna's Hummingbird, which stays here all the year around.

"I like these hot lips blossoms, too."

Busy Summer Scene

The weather in Oregon fluctuates too much lately.  A week ago, it was very hot around 90 F degrees; now it is below normal, below 65 F degrees.

A few days ago at the end of the hot spell, we stopped over at the wetland.

Osprey:  "I am hunting a fish from high above."

Greater Yellowlegs:  "I am hunting on the ground."

Cedar Waxwing:  "I am hunting in the bush and nesting nearby in summer."