birds

Female Ruby-throated Hummingbirds

/ Rebecca / 24 Comments

“A beautiful sight that tickles the eyes and thrills the soul” is the phrase that came to mind while watching a group of female ruby-throated hummingbirds as they danced and weaved around the feeder and late September flowers.  Between their swift dips and dives, the hummingbirds jealously guarded their favorite resting spots in the nearby bushes. For the males, the seasonal stay here is over, and they have already migrated south toward a warmer climate.  These females may also be on the move, taking a brief stopover before continuing their journey.

“There are two ways of seeing: with the body and with the soul.  The body’s sight can sometimes forget, but the soul remembers forever.”  ~Alexandre Dumas

An Unexpected Surprise

/ Rebecca / 21 Comments

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

Two Shy Birds

/ Rebecca / 17 Comments

In late July, as we drove slowly down the road at the wildlife refuge, I was excited to spot an adult Yellow-crowned Night-Heron walking around on the floor of the swampy woods.  It was quite shy, staying close to the cover of trees and vines as protection from prying eyes.

In early August, when we drove this road once again, we glimpsed the shadow of a large bird as it took flight from the forest floor and settled in a distant tree.  This time it was a juvenile Yellow-crowned Night-Heron.  With its spotted brown feathers and streaky underparts, it did an excellent job of blending in with the background of the branches and foliage.  Had I not seen where it landed, I’m sure I wouldn’t have been able to find it among the trees.

“Scientists have found the gene for shyness. They would have found it years ago, but it was hiding behind a couple of other genes.” ~Jonathan Katz

Juvenile Mockingbird

/ Rebecca / 12 Comments

One afternoon, my husband came inside sounding puzzled, saying that the mockingbird in our front yard had been unusually aggressive when he went out to get the mail. That evening, I spotted a young bird sitting in the yard, and suddenly it made sense. He had encountered a mother bird whose protective instincts had kicked in.

“I may seem quiet and reserved, but if you mess with my children, the mama bear in me will roar.” – Unknown

Nature Silhouettes

/ Rebecca / 20 Comments

There’s something intriguing about silhouettes. Without using words, they tell a story, leaving the details to your imagination.

“The object of art is to give life shape.”  ~Willliam Shakespeare

Preening the Plumage

/ Rebecca / 19 Comments

During the spring breeding season, the molted feathers of the Great Egret are replaced with bright white plumage and long ornamental feathers which are vital for attracting mates. Daily preening is crucial for maintaining feather condition, as well as providing insulation and waterproofing.

“Good grooming is integral, and impeccable style is a must …” ~Daymond John

A Young Barred Owl

/ Rebecca / 25 Comments

While driving down a familiar side street in our town, I noticed something out-of place, and looked again to see what it was. There, on a small branch on the ground, calmly sat an immature Barred Owl. What a nice, unexpected surprise.

“Nature is full for us of seeming inconsistencies and glad surprises.” ~Margaret Barber

Spring Around the Levee

/ Rebecca / 14 Comments

The fields surrounding the levee were filled with chattering birds …

and adorned with vibrant spring wildflowers.

“Everything is blooming most recklessly; if it were voices instead of colors, there would be an unbelievable shrieking into the heart of the night.”  ~Rainer Maria Rilke

A Variety of Birds

/ Rebecca / 19 Comments

It’s always interesting to see what birds we can spot as we drive around the lake and the Mississippi levee. Here are some of our most recent finds.

You’ll get mixed up,
of course, as you already know.
You’ll get mixed up with
many strange birds as you go.
So be sure when you step.
Step with care and great
tact and remember that
Life’s A Great Balancing Act.
~Dr. Seuss

Feasting on Sumac Berries

/ Rebecca / 14 Comments

In February we spotted an American robin foraging on the vibrant red berries of sumac shrubs which were growing in a colony along the roadside.  The fruit of the sumac lasts throughout the winter and provides sustenance to our feathered friends that spend the winter here.

… Growing at field edges and in waste
places, most of us don’t notice the ruby glow.
Bluebirds, robins, and squirrels
know better, plucking at the jeweled lights
to keep their own fires burning.
~David K. Leff