Apr 16 2009
Migrating Birds
Most of the large water fowl have already migrated through this area. Last year we were privileged to have some whooping cranes stop for a few days in a flooded field across the road. This year is not so wet, so they have certainly moved past us and found other waterways. The Canadian geese are nesting, as are wood ducks and other ducks. I spotted some blue herons along a stream a short way across the fields; they mate for life and return each year to the same nesting spot.
The songbirds are also returning in large numbers. I feed birds all winter, so some stay all year. The goldfinches have shed their winter plumage and are sporting their bright yellow feathers, and the purple (or red) finches have done the same. This little female purple finch has a nest in the woods in a wild raspberry thicket a stone’s throw from the house. She frequents the feeder, and since it is a safe place for her to find food, I’ll keep it filled.
Female purple finch rather than red finch. Very cute.