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!
Video: Backyard lifer!
Earlier today, a Common Redpoll graced my backyard. This was a wonderful surprise. Due to the irruption, they have been abundant in Michigan this winter, but I never had one right here. Now we can really move on to spring!
The sun
is making itself rare these days, which is not doing a lot to lift the overall mood or photo quality. The yard is full of regulars, and I am happily helping them to eat well to make it through the cold. One of the most diligent is this Red-breasted Nuthatch lady. I have two couples at most, and whenever I come out for a refill, she is the first to come, even when I still stand there. I love these birds.
Happy National Bird Day!
Well, to be honest, every day is bird day to me but it is nice to see that there is an official date to celebrate our feathered friends too. My personal bird ambassador this year is the Red-breasted Nuthatch because I am so happy to have them back in my yard after a two-year absence. Quick as always, and almost not in frame.
Have a beautiful Tuesday!
Video: Evening Grosbeak
WOHOOOO!!! This is an Evening Grosbeak, and the first male of this species that I ever knowingly had in my yard. (I had a female in 2018). They are having an irruption year, and everybody around me seemingly got them for weeks now, just not me. I am so happy right now, and I hope he brings his family 😀
A nice little surprise
during these rather dull times at the feeders was this Pine Siskin today (in the second pic, there is also a Goldfinch). I used to have lots during the cold season but none in the last two years. Due to the irruption, they are back in lower Michigan, but I haven’t seen larger numbers. They are feisty and entertaining little bird, and I hope there will be more. and that they tell their northern friends the Evening Grosbeaks of my yard.
I think the Chickadees
are happy they found some allies of equal size now that the yard has calmed down for the fall. And I am so happy about the Red-breasted Nuthatches! I spotted two of them on the big tree today.
