In the scheme of things life goes on. The cycles of nature have about them a certain kind of inevitability that is both disturbing and reassuring. For example, the gold crowned and white crowned sparrows have headed north, up into British Columbia and the tundra. I have felt a pang or two of real sorrow since they left these parts; but I am comforted by the almost certain knowledge that they will return next February.
The goldfinches have taken their places, along with several other quite visually striking birds: the evening grossbeaks and their smaller kin the black-headed grossbeaks, for example. We have even seen a Western Tanager hanging around lately, a rather elusive visitor, but one we have previously seen about this same time of year. That brings the variety of birds we have been able to observe here in our own backyard to about 30 different species.
The birds on our property have always been a delight, but more than ever this year. Watching them from our breakfast area upstairs has become our favorite morning pastime. They and the new pathway through the backyard have made enjoying the spring especially delightful. It is not yet summer, so who knows what we have in store for us? We will be on the lookout, that’s for sure.