Spring Song

It is so pleasant to hear the twitters and songs of various birds as they journey back north.  I have enjoyed watching them stop by the feeders.  Some are here to stay, while others are just stopping by to take refreshment on their long trips.  Following are my friends that I managed to catch on camera yesterday:

 Song Sparrow

It is recognizable by the dark spot in the center of the chest.  They defend their territory by singing from thick shrubs.  I love to listen to them!

Spotted Towhee 

This is the male.  The female has the same markings, but is not as vibrant in color..... more of a charcoal than black, and less red on the underside.

These arrived late last fall and have hung around the entire winter.  They will likely move down to a lower elevation to build their ground nests to raise their broods.

Dark-Eyed Junco 

This is a pair of Oregon Dark-Eyed Juncos.   They prefer ground feeding, though I have seen them nibbling from the hanging feeder.

Chestnut-Backed Chickadee

Distinguished from similar birds such as the Black-Capped Chickadee (which I have also seen here) by the rich, warm chestnut back and sides, it is the most colorful of the chickadees.

Varied Thrush

This is the female, with subdued orange tones.  The male has bright orange colorings, and I can't wait to see him!  Whereas the female is brownish, the male has striking black feathers.  I do  hope they nest in my yard!

Spring would not be spring without bird songs. - Francis M. Chapman