The birds were active today at the feeders. Maybe they know that we're going to get some cold weather at the end of the week and they're trying to fatten up some. I had more Pine Warblers at the feeders than I've seen. Until today, two were all I saw at a time. Today I had four. The American Goldfinches continue to increase in numbers at the feeders. I counted 53 today either on the feeders, on the ground beneath the feeders and in the tree above the feeders. A Sharp-shinned Hawk came in for a while and frightened all the birds away. I got a couple of shots of him through the fence while he was sitting on the brush pile.

The birds were interesting away from the feeders too. A pair of Red-shouldered Hawks flew around quite a bit and called to each other. A large flock of American Pipits flew in and landed in the pasture. They walked around foraging for quite a while. Eastern Bluebirds and Yellow-rumped Warblers flew around and came to my bird bath.

Birds seen 1/4/10 (16 species): Sharp-shinned Hawk, Red-shouldered Hawk, Red-bellied Woodpecker, American Crow, Eastern Bluebird, American Robin, American Pipit, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Pine Warbler, Chipping Sparrow, Northern Cardinal, Red-winged Blackbird, Brewer's Blackbird, Brown-headed Cowbird, American Goldfinch, House Sparrow

Property Bird #189!!!

Today as I was working in my garage, I looked out in the yard and saw the familiar silhouette and walk of two American Pipits. I have wondered why I had never seen them in my yard, since they seem to like short grassy areas. I would see them at the Cedar Hill Park on the north shore of Lake Charlotte every year. So, I finally got American Pipits for my property list.

Another surprise was looking out at my feeders and seeing a yellow parakeet sitting on the fence behind them. He stayed there for a few minutes and flew off just before I was able to get the camera to take a picture. Maybe he'll be back.

The House Sparrows are increasing in numbers very quickly. I may need to get my trap out again soon.

On Sunday, I looked up and saw 20+ Tree Swallows flying overhead. It's kind of surprising to see swallows here in the winter, but Tree Swallows stay and I see them every winter.