Tree Swallows, with their deep-blue iridescent backs, are the first swallows to return to Massachusetts in the Spring. They compete with Eastern Bluebirds for nest boxes. These swallows were perched on the bluebird boxes at Wachusett Meadow Audubon Sanctuary.
Pine Grosbeaks usually inhabit Canada or the far West of the United States. However, this was an “irruption year”, when large numbers of the birds flew south in search of more available food. This bird took no notice of me as I walked up close to her to take pictures. Instead, she focused on an easy meal of crabapples ripe for the taking.
Eastern Cottontail Rabbits do not hibernate in the Winter; they are active all year. These rabbits were seen daily near the bird feeders, in all types of weather, often sharing fallen seeds with the sparrows.
Yes? No? Maybe?
You decide.
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Ice fisherman armed with sleds, pails, augers, fishing gear, tents and chairs don’t seem to notice the low temperature and bitter winds.
This beloved tree at the Wachusett Meadow Audubon in Princeton, MA delights in any season.
The juvenile eastern bluebird keeps watch over the Wachusett Meadow Audubon in Princeton, MA.
This chipmunk has mastered knee bend routines in his favorite spot in the Zen garden.
This brilliantly colored Scarlet Tanager paused outside my window for a short while today, just in time to be added to the bird count of Massachusetts Audubon’s Bird-a-thon.
Mass Audubon explains that “its largest fundraiser brings together supporters from across the state to raise essential funds for nature conservation, education, and advocacy”.
Because of the virus, this year all sightings were completed from the areas right around the participants’ homes.
This Baltimore Oriole pair chatter as they flash through the yard, pausing for a drink before heading to the nearby forsythia bush.
The first Baltimore Oriole of the season cautiously checked in at the feeder in between rain showers today.
I wasn’t the only one working in my yard yesterday. Fortunately, we all managed to take breaks between our labors on this warm Spring day.
Whether they spread out like cushions around my feet, or provide unexpected bursts of color in the semi-shade, early Spring perennials liven up my yard walks.
Less than three weeks ago, my Zen garden was snow-covered. Today, the white stone “river” is flowing down from the azalea, past the water irises. The bird has a perfect view from the bench.
A Zen garden is a perfect place to contemplate ever changing conditions.
The female Northern Cardinal has taken a keen interest in my garden preparations this week.
The apple tree has become the favorite perch of the Northern Cardinal.
