There’s no denying that Spring brings out the birds. It was sunny and light-jacket warm this morning when I visited the Pole Farm, and I was hoping to get a few shots of the common yellowthroats that have returned to the fields.
I heard many but was only able to spot one, a male who inconveniently for me hunkered deep in the grasses. My camera couldn’t focus, yet I wasn’t concerned. I’ll have many chances to capture those black-and-gold beauties for many weeks to come.
I noticed the first catbird of the season on one of the feeders at home Tuesday evening, so I wasn’t surprised when I heard a couple of them today near the AT&T Building One oval. The first one I spotted was tucked into a newly blooming tree, singing while looking nearly straight at me.
I also had some nice looks at several robins (note the top photo) and Eastern bluebirds. The first bluebird I spotted had its back turned to me, and at first glance I thought it was a blue grosbeak. But it’s too early for those, and I dutifully recorded bluebird No. 1 in my e-Bird app. I spotted a few other bluebirds later on my walk. They never cease to impress me with their stunning colors.
After so many barren months of winter, it’s a treat to see colorful birds set against the emerging leaves and blossoms of the trees on which they perch. Welcome to the wonderful world of vernal color! 🦅
The Jersey Birder 