Return of summer colors

Return of summer colors
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

In addition to the annual migrations, there is a sign of spring that involves the birds that have wintered here at Chatham Gardens and elsewhere in the northeast and it is not unlike our own desire to change what we wear from heavy wools to lighter cottons. With our feathered friends, it involves changing their winter colors to their summer colors; a sure sign that mating is not that far away.

Here are three male American Goldfinches that are well on their way to the bright, vibrant yellow for which they are so well known. The feathers of the fellow looking at the camera are in various stages of change; you can see the drabber olive green on his back and and shoulders, while his two friends have already mostly converted to the bright yellow of summer.

Cardinals at the Feeder

Cardinals
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

One of my favorite subjects to photograph are birds in flight. Being able to capture the spread of their splendid feathers and the energy of the wings while in flight is thrilling. To freeze a single moment in their life speaks volumes to me.

This picture is one of my favorites. It captures the final approach of a brilliantly colored male Cardinal to the feeder where a female Cardinal, possibly his mate is already feeding.

Earle, Linda, Dave, Tammy, Brian

Earle, Linda, Dave, Tammy, Brian
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

Tonight we had a great dinner at the Ocean House in Dennis Port. Great restaurant located on Nantucket Sound, a definite new favorite of mine. It was Tammy's birthday dinner and we were fortunate that Brian was home from school so he could join us, Good food, good wine and good friends - nothing better.

New sighting

IMG_5553
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

The past week has been cold and overcast, not conducive to wandering around Cape Cod or even Chatham with my camera. But earlier this week I spotted this little fellow. At first I though it was an American Goldfinch, but upon closer inspection I realized that the color was wrong and even the body shape was very different, much rounder and/or full then a Goldfinch. I believe it may be a warbler, but I am still unsure so if anyone reads this and can ID my little friend, please let me know.

What has been interesting is that I have only spotted this solitary loner; very unusual during the spring migration time when it is more common to see different visitors in large numbers.

The sun is scheduled to make an appearance tomorrow and I plan on being ready, in spite of my latest calamity - apparently I broke several toes in my left foot. I though I had one broken, but as usual, I overindulged.

Sunset at Hardings Beach

Sunset at Hardings Beach
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

I live in one of the most beautiful places I have ever known. I have seen hundreds of sunsets at dozens of different locations and never have I been disappointed. Each one is different. Each one is wondrous. And each one leaves me almost speechless at the beauty that our universe offers up to us again and again.

Good night Sun - I will welcome you back in the morning.

A Robin and a Cardinal

A Robin and a Cardinal
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

The weather has not improved, but still there is cause for optimism. Just the other day I looked out my window to my feeder in the front yard and saw at least 6 beautiful Robins searching the ground for stray seeds. I was not able to get a good picture out of my rain covered window, but later that day I was able to catch a Robin and a brightly colored male Cardinal in the back yard. It seems that spring must be nearing Cape Cod and none too soon.