I was sitting peacefully in a rocking chair on a covered porch at a wildlife refuge when, out of nowhere, this Yellow-throated Warbler darted in.  Disoriented beneath the roof, it landed on the rocking chair beside me to find its bearings.

For a time, I remained still, not wanting to scare it away. Eventually, I gently snapped a few photos.

The bird’s bright yellow throat stood out vividly against its gray and white feathers, accentuated by its black mask and streaks.

After having time to inspect its surroundings, the warbler regained its composure and took off as swiftly as it had arrived.

“Life’s most beautiful moments often arrive unannounced, wrapped in the shimmering paper of unexpected surprises.” – Unknown