birdsoup

It is officially spring, a time of anticipation for gardeners and birders.  New bulbs will soon be blooming.  Migrating birds will be returning.  Careful observers may note the exact date of the new occurrence e.g., last year my tulips bloom in the first week of April.  I saw my first Phoebe on the 24^th of March last year.  The  first Tree Swallows arrived on the 26^th.  The first of the season is eagerly anticipated.  But what about the last of the season?

 Yesterday, the last day of winter, I saw a pair of Juncos.  Hadn’t seen one for a few weeks.  I assumed they had already migrated north to their breeding grounds.  (Actually, that isn’t true.  I haven’t thought about them at all.  Out of sight, out of mind.  I’ve been awaiting the new arrivals from down south.)  I haven’t  seen White-throated Sparrow for some time either.  I wonder if they have headed north.

Noting the last date you see a winter visitor is difficult unless you keep meticulous daily records.  It is also more exciting to anticipate seeing friends you haven’t seen for some time.  I’m ready.  Lets celebrate spring with new birds.