Winter colors...

Simple blip today ...of a very common North American bird, the American Goldfinch.  This bird is found throughout the United States and Canada at various times of the year.  It's winter range spreads from northern New England all the way into Central America, and it's breeding range goes from Canada as far south as Georgia.  All of this by way of saying that it's pretty easy to see this bird just about anywhere in the US.  

A few interesting goldfinch facts...  They are the only finch that molts body feathers twice a year, transforming from the dull winter colors shown here to vibrant brilliant yellow (males) in summer.  They are strict vegetarians, eating only seeds/vegetable matter.  And they are among the latest N. American birds to nest,. waiting until June or July to start constructing nests based on when the thistle and milkweed has gone to seed.  And the American Goldfinch is the state bird for three different states, including my home state of New Jersey!

I liked this particular shot because it shows the beautiful feather patterns on the wings, and also because you can see a bit of bright yellow feathers still showing on the neck and head.  In mild winters, we will have goldfinches at our feeders all winter; in colder years they will move a little further south.  My alternative shot for today is this inquisitive finch.

Robins and waxwings were at the water again first thing this morning, and a half-dozen blue jays were causing a ruckus at the feeder.  A heavy frost left some interesting ice patterns in my garden. Had a nice walk this morning and ran into a fellow photographer/birder on the trail so enjoyed a nice chat with him as we watched a couple of swans courting in the lake.   

Charlie seems to be feeling perhaps a little worse today.  Very glad we have the appointment with the vet tomorrow.  After I finish posting this, I am going to go give him some attention; and perhaps he and I will even take a little nap together.  

Missing hubs.  

Debbi