I always hope to see a YB Chat in the spring on our place but, over the years, chats have always been rare. When I saw Larry’s post the other day mentioning chats, I was hopeful.

Today, I had one give some of the best views I’ve ever enjoyed of this elusive spring visitor. I spotted it in some willows, working through a particular patch. I backed away, found a spot to sit & enjoyed the show. It was gleaning insects from the willows, working back & forth, then started its noisy “chatting” calls. A good 20 minutes of entertainment.

My last visit from the Blue Jay was 5/12, 3 days shy of a full 7 months. Now that I’ve posted, it will probably show again! But, I’m thinking the jay may actually have moved on. I like to think its semi-circle flight around the yard at my last sighting was the jay’s way of thanking me, before heading off, for feeding it through & helping it survive a long winter.

I’ve watched for answers to Larry’s question if folks still post their lists to IBLE & not seeing a lot of responses. Think Facebook, Twitter, etc may have made inroads to the likes of forums on Yahoo Groups. I leave Facebook to my wife & personally avoid it. And, as have previously noted, not returned to eBird. Sure hope the lights don’t shut for IBLE, as it’s been an enjoyable way to share birding observations & info from around the state. Guess time will tell.

Brian Carrigan
Blackfoot