Eastern phoebe

IMG_2189_Eastern Phoebe

A little bird, within a tangled wood,
Sang sweetly to the forest solitude;
From matin hour to vesper time it sang —
Until the leafy woodland spaces rang
With such a chorus of ecstatic glee
That all the world seemed pulsing harmony …
~Robert Frost

Great Blue Heron

These heron were doing some serious fishing out on flooded farm land near the Mississippi River.  They crept along slowly … watching …  listening … and then striking with lightening speed.  Each strike was generally rewarded with a tiny silver fish.

“The charm of fishing is that it is the pursuit of what is elusive but attainable, a perpetual series of occasions for hope.”  ~John Buchan

Tufted Titmouse

Tufted titmice are frequent visitors to my feeders.  It is not always easy to get a photo of them because they flit in and out so quickly.  I usually hear their clear echoing voice before I actually see them, which is my cue to get my camera ready.

“Those who wish to sing … always find a song.”  ~Swedish Proverb

Feeding flock

Earlier today, a flock of American robins mixed with cedar waxwings descended upon the holly trees in our front yard.  They systematically harvested the berries and then quickly moved on to their next destination.  What a treat to watch these beautiful birds in action!

Expressions

The cardinals keep my backyard interesting with their beautiful colors and energetic activity.  Their constant sense of alertness can make for some rather expressive photos.

“Of all the things you wear, your expression is most noticeable.” ~Unknown