And, the first female Red-winged Blackbird arrived at the feeder this morning. I didn’t even see the males, but within minutes, up & down a Snake River channel through the back, at least 4 started calling, vying for her attention! Others: White Pelicans, Forster’s & Caspian Terns along the river, Canada Geese are nesting, Mourning Doves are back & Tree Swallows are checking out last year’s tree cavities.
Our most common feeder bird remains American Goldfinch, followed by House Finch, BC Chickadee & 2 RB Nuthatches. My Least Chipmunk “colony” is up to at least 5 individuals &, apparently, this is the month when I may soon expect more. I don’t mind sharing the black oil sunflower seeds with them. Like the cottontails, their generations seem to be somewhat boom/bust by my observations over nearing 4 decades here. Counting it fortunate that this is their 3rd year at backyard’s edge to the woodland. Enjoy watching their antics!
Brian Carrigan
Blackfoot