April weather
continues to be wild, but nature is unstoppable, and spring is marching on. And it is fabulous to watch the changes and transformations. After showing just some specks of vibrancy, the Goldfinches are now almost completely in summer plumage. They nest the latest of them all so I think they just enjoy being bright and colorful for as long as possible. I do not blame them :)
According to the Winter Finch Forecast,
(see here) there may be another irruption of Purple Finches and Evening Grosbeaks going on this winter, and looking at the numerous reports of sightings in the local birding groups, it appears to be true. I heard one the other day (ID’d by Merlin) but have not been blessed with a visitor thus far. I am crossing my fingers. For the time being, here are some Goldfinches, they almost have the same colors 😆 Enjoy the rest of the weekend!
When you watch birds regularly,
you will notice hierarchies and pecking orders. Not just within the backyard as a habitat but also within the smaller “habitats” of feeders, bath and feeding areas. It is always interesting to see who gets along, who doesn’t, who comes in groups and who goes all by themselves. Goldfinches are plenty right now, and the funny thing is that they will get along with others but go bananas amongst each other. Chickadees, Redbreasted Nuthatches and also Juncos like to do their own thing, diligently visiting feeders when there’s no traffic (usually because they are empty) or foraging around the ground and near the bird bath.
It's 50 shades of Peep season.
The Goldfinches are molting (changing into their summer feathers), and have the most adorable, hilarious and dramatic looks. They are also more aggressive than any other bird right now. Which is funny, considering that they will nest the latest. Maybe the sunlight fuels them up, it kind of has a similar effect on me too. 🌞
This is a bit
of a boring time at the feeders, but the peeps are plenty. Goldfinches start nesting late in the season but they are starting to change their plumage, and they are becoming much more agitated. They look so funny with their patchwork feathers. I also saw the first Robins of the year today and the BBs have continued to work on their nest. Spring is coming!
The Goldfinches are back,
and and as usual, are creating a little drama whenever they come across a fellow Goldfinch. They do play nice with the House Finches and others. The House Finch in the middle is the most interesting guy, and he seems to be a local. He has fantastic hues of red, brown and even orange in his feathers.
Pretty bird backs
It is time for another edition of pretty bird backs. Here we have a Robin with fabulous epaulets, a Blue Jay, a Goldfinch, a Grackle and a female Bluebird.
