birdsoup

Spring has been highly anticipated this year because of the harsh winter. People are anxious for the slightest hint of spring. The first signs of early spring flowers is like a miracle.  Life is suddenly better.

I’ve heard joyful reports of returning spring migrants being seen. Phoebe, Tree Swallows, Pine and Palm Warblers are all present. Goldfinch are turning yellow. Birds sing in the early morning. After our bleak winter the first glance of these early birds lifts one’s spirit and hints at better times ahead. Birders eagerly await the first sight of a returning migrant.

But hardly anyone notices the sudden absence of our winter visitors. Juncos and White-throated Sparrows have quietly left town for their northern breeding grounds not to be seen again until fall. No one misses them. We are too busy anticipating spring.

The birds are simply following their normal pattern but human look forward to spring.