This afternoon while I was away my husband saw a bird at the top of the
Black Gum singing an unfamiliar song. He said it reminded him of a
Mockingbird but was mostly white below with a yellow bill. He even imitated
the sounds it made. I guessed it might be a cuckoo so I played a recording
and he said it was exactly that. This YB Cuckoo is not only a new yard bird
but a life bird for us. Even though I didn't see it, listening to the song
reminded me that I had heard this bird a few days ago after sunset while the
Robins were singing their evening songs.
Our 5 Bluebird babies are still alive and well. About 2 weeks ago our
singing House Wren was seen with another wren carrying sticks into one of
the empty Bluebird houses so we figured he'd found a mate. Well, she must
have left him because there is no nest and he seems to be alone singing all
day every day since unless they have some hidden place that we haven't seen.
Nancy Young
Blue Ridge, VA
Botetourt County - Roanoke Valley
