Early Bird

I was surprised this morning to see a white-throated sparrow bellying up to the sunflower seed bar. I think he must be way ahead of most of his friends. According to my photographic records I saw the last one here on May 6th this past spring - after which they were all gone away up north to wherever it is that they breed. But now they're on their way back to stay with me for the winter, and I welcomed this advanced scout with a giggle of glee. Good to see him/her.

I also surprised a hawk in our yard and managed to get a snap of it in the woods before it disappeared completely. See extra. I'm thinking probably a juvenile red-shouldered hawk.