Birding Trifecta

On Saturday afternoon I took a break from cleaning and went down to the float. Four Herons fished and squabbled in the shallows. I watched them for a while until I noticed the bald eagle soaring right above my head. It was absolutely breath-taking. He was close enough for me to hear the whoosh of his wings as he back-pedaled and hovered. I went for the camera and the herons cooperated but the eagle was long gone by then.

Later, we saw not one but two pileated woodpeckers. In five years in Maine, I've seen a total of one....now we have two visiting a tree at the edge of the lane.

Finally, as if this weren't enough, we were awakened by the cry of a loon. It can't get any better.

Hummingbird Moth Video

BirdCinema.com has video of one type of hummingbird moth, very similar to the one that I spotted in the garden last night. This video is far better than the shots I managed. Isn't he cool?
Birdsngarden.com has information on all three kinds of hummingbird moths.

At The Feeder

Our first Red-Breasted Grosbeak of this year. Actually, my first sighting since the spring of 2005. Isn't he marvelous? He was also very patient, waiting quietly for the finches to finish before getting his breakfast.

On a reasonably related note, Margaret has kept detailed records of her first hummingbird sighting for the past few years. It's remarkable how consistent their arrival date is.

The Warbler and His Castle

I'm a little embarrassed to show you this--I had no idea that the birdhouse was this dirty, but we're all friends here, right?

Welcoming the Orioles

It's time to set out the oranges. Early May in Maine means Baltimore Orioles and adding a little color to our still brown and gray days. Orange halves in bushes attract orioles and even if the little birdies don't show up, the oranges are quite perky. Orioles also love grape jelly, and have been known to eat it right out of the jar. I have it on good faith that they're especially fond of Smucker's Grape.

If you'd like a guaranteed view of the Orioles, try Clay Hill Farm for lunch or dinner. It's a lovely restaurant and is the only restaurant to be certified as a bird sanctuary. During May, they are inundated with Orioles.

Another "It Can't Be"

I saw a robin while walking Mac the Dog. If I doubted my eyes, as soon as I heard her sing, it was confirmed.
A foot of snow on the ground. I wonder what she's eating.

Good Morning

York, ME 7:15 am