Spring is in the Air
Feb 21, 2009 | by Adrian Binns
As we near the end of February and the evening’s chill still remains in the morning air, the days are getting longer and birds are beginning to court. Walking the neighborhood on this bright cloudless 25 degree morning a Northern Mockingbird (above) was sitting on a chimney enjoying the heat escaping out of the top. Did it spend the night there to keep warm?
House Finches, Song Sparrows, Carolina Wrens, Cardinals and Carolina Chickadees were all in full song. Tufted Titmouse were forming pairs following each other through dogwood, cherry and crape myrtles while Mourning Doves sat beside each other bonding.
A pair of White-breasted Nuthatches (left and below) were at the top of a maple tree with the male excavating last years Downy Woodpecker cavity to his specifications. His potential mate stayed close by, occasionally flying over to investigate his work where upon he quickly chased her away. He undoubtedly did not want her to see his unfinished craftsmanship.
all photos © adrian binns