During the summer and autumn seasons, the swamp daisies attract a variety of bees and butterflies.  However, by late November, their beauty fades, and the bees and butterflies are nowhere to be found.  Recently, as I stood in my favorite spot on the board walk, gazing at the withered plants and bemoaning their decline, I noticed a swift flicker of wings — and then another.  Flitting through the foliage were two birds that I seldom encounter.

Initially, I noticed the Swamp Sparrow as it darted from one hiding spot to another, attempting to remain hidden among the marshy plants. This sparrow, characterized by its rusty hue, was searching for food along the water’s edge where dried plant seeds were plentiful.  It is a winter inhabitant of our area, arriving in September and departing in May.

Then I spotted a female Ruby Crowned Kinglet — a tiny, agile bird. She was equally elusive as she flitted and hopped among the plants in an effort to remain hidden. Her wings, adorned with stunning olive green-gray plumage, flickered as she searched for tiny insects, berries and seeds. Like the Swamp Sparrow, it is also a winter resident.

As I watched these two evasive birds on one side of the boardwalk, I found it hard to ignore a loud scratching sound coming from the other side of the boardwalk. Peering through the wooden slats, I was delighted to discover a female Eastern Towhee using her feet to rummage through dried leaves and underbrush looking for food. Though not always obvious, the Towhee makes its home in our state year-round.

Nature is full of surprises. I had been in search of flowers and butterflies; however, I was instead blessed with the sight of three small birds. With every season that passes, new wonders emerge to provide delight and joy. Rather than lamenting the absence of the gifts from one season, we can turn our attention to the blessings of the upcoming season and be thankful.

Gratitude helps us to see what is there rather than what isn’t. ~Unknown