A pair of Northern Mockingbirds can be seen almost year-round in our front yard. At this time of year, they are especially attracted to the bright red berries that cover our holly bushes. Mockingbirds find them to be a tasty treat. In addition, they are high in fat and nutrients, which keep them warm and help them make it through the winter.
“Holly berries shining red,
Mean a long winter, ’tis said.“
~The Old Farmer’s Almanac Book of Weather Lore
This is the mockingbird that stands guard in our front yard. He generally positions himself at different posts situated about the area, ready to chase off any intruders who venture into his territory. Musically, he is an extremely talented bird that likes to sing day and night. He positions himself in a bush outside our window and performs his varied repertoire of sounds and songs — in a crisp, clear voice — into the early hours of the morning. Due to his enthusiastic singing, especially during nesting season, I like to keep a pair of ear plugs or a box fan handy — just for those times when my brain yearns for silence.
“When my critics tell me to stop singing, I tell them NAY, NAY, NAY!” ~Unknown
Turn your face to the sun and the shadows fall behind you. ~Charlotte Whitton
The Mockingbird (genus Mimus polyglottos) was declared the official State Bird of Tennessee in 1933.
walking on a country road 