The Sound of Spring

Like many people living in North and Central America, the distinctive song of the male red-winged blackbird is synonymous with springtime. Although this bird is a year round resident in the 48 continental United States, we don't' hear them until spring, when they put on a show to entice a mate (or as many mates as they can as they are polygamous birds). Males flash their brilliant red and yellow epaulets and flare their wings while singing - intended to not only impress the ladies, but also to scare off other males.

And interesting side note about blackbirds is that they will vigorously defend their territory once their female/s begin nesting, even going to far as to attack humans and large mammals that wander too near a nest. Birder beware!

I enjoyed getting out for a hike this morning, camera in hand. The trails are finally clear of ice and snow and the lakes are clear of ice - all making for a very enjoyable outing. I enjoyed the sounds of the blackbirds and cardinals and the sight of migrant ducks on the lake. Bliss. Three other pics from this morning posted HERE.

When I got home, I was looking out the window and happened to see a male cardinal carefully shell a sunflower seed, fly to the cherry tree, and present the seed to his mate. Moments later, I watched a male nuthatch carry a shelled peanut to his mate up in the big maple tree next to our deck. I don't ever tire of watching the courtship behavior of our backyard birds - it amazes me to see them performing acts that seem so human, and so tender. Spring is most definitely in the air...

All is well in Alabama for now and Virginia is settling back in at home after her hospital stay. Keeping fingers crossed that she stays healthy. Hubs and I are both over the worst of the gastrointestinal virus, but still being very careful about food and staying with things like soup and crackers for now. Better safe than sorry.

Happy Hump Day, people.