The sunshine this weekend brought about a lot of feeder activity. And, today, not only large numbers of birds hitting the feeders but some surprises.

The Blue Jay continues its visits, mostly in the mornings. Then, sporadic visits for spilled seeds by the 2 Harris’ Sparrows continue throughout the day. But, a surprise, was a female Purple Finch. Haven’t seen one in quite a while & then had a 15 minute visit by a female for sunflower seeds this afternoon. A definite contrast to the usual House Finch females.

Pine Siskins appeared at the thistle seed feeder yesterday & continue today. One very bright yellow individual gives nice contrast to the drab winter phase Am Goldfinches arriving by the droves. Cedar Waxwings were perched in aspen trees, flycatching midges hatching from a Snake River overflow channel.

Combined with some overhead flights of Bald Eagle, a few Red-tailed Hawks, including a dark phase one, 1 Rough-legged Hawk, N Harrier & a Sharp-shinned Hawk, it’s been a good day!

Brian Carrigan
Blackfoot