White-throated Sparrow
The first big influx of White-throated Sparrows recently came in during the night, just prior to the northwest wind shift. The sleek and lively birds seem to me like little soldiers of the forest donning new uniforms, patrolling trails along the creek corridor while foraging for whatever they can find. Until they continue their journey northward to the boreal forest, you'll find these sparrows in a variety of habitats, including your own backyard. Are you hearing their sweet whistle of a song? I had one singing this morning right outside my apartment window, but some lucky Wisconsinites in the northern part of the state can admire these wonderful sparrows throughout summer and early fall. I do envy them that, but being a short-term visitor in my neck of the woods probably makes me appreciate them all the more.
Bloodroot
"Each new year is a surprise to us. We find that we had virtually forgotten the note of each bird, and when we hear it again it is remembered like a dream, reminding us of a previous state of existence. How happens it that the associations it awakens are always pleasing, never saddening; reminiscences of our sanest hours? The voice of nature is always encouraging."
-- Henry David Thoreau
All images © 2010 Mike McDowell