Just before dark I heard a Catbird singing out front in the Hemlock tree.
There is a small hedge of holly next to the front porch that I hope they
will nest in. They did several years ago. A flock of Cedar Waxwings were
hopping about and preening in the tops of the Black Gum and White Oak this
evening. I tried to count but they were hidden in the leaves and moved
about a lot but I would say there were 3 or 4 dozen or more. When they
landed in the oak, lots of cicadas flew out. I was hoping the birds would
eat some but it didn't look like it. A squirrel was in the mulberry eating
the fruit but the waxwings did not seem interested. The fruit may not be
ripe yet but the squirrels are very hungry. Our Bluebird babies look like
they will leave the nest soon. Chickadees have already flown and a House
Wren was checking out the house they just left. Titmice must be busy with
babies. I have not seen one in weeks and don't even hear them much any
more. The rest of the year they are always about on the deck and the
feeders. Nuthatches and Red-bellies and Cardinals seem to have vanished.
But I am expecting them to return with the little ones in tow. Practically
nothing but gloriously bright Goldfinches at the feeders and some House
Finches with two babies.
Nancy Young
Blue Ridge
Botetourt County
