Just Watching the Nature Channel

Being stuck at home is not all bad.  We have a big window looking out on the backyard and two cozy recliners.  Every morning we sit and watch the happenings in our backyard – we call it the Nature Channel.  As I have said before, we are easily amused! 

We put out peanuts, suet, seeds, and of course water, then just sit back and watch the action.  Our bird bath and fountain have been frozen solid so I have been putting out fresh water for the critters.  Don’t like to see them drink out of the pool because of the chemicals.  I got a heated water dish from Amazon so now we don’t have to worry about the cold nights.

We have been surprised at all the birds we have seen.  Of course we have the ubiquitous crows…


All pictures were taken through our dirty window so not as clear as they should be.  Gee, maybe I should wash the window!!

The Scrub Jays love the peanuts and will squawk until they are fed.



We even had a Northern Flicker the other day.


Of course the squirrels are always in on the action.  We don’t mind – we find them amusing and there is plenty for everyone.




Today we saw several new birds.  I have tried to identify them through our Oregon bird books and the All About Birds website, but I am really not too confident of my results.  I’m sure someone out there can correct me if I’m wrong.

This I think is a Townsend’s Warbler.


These little guys landed in a big flock.  At first I thought they were immature starlings but they are really tiny.  They might be a flock of bushtits.





Best I can tell, this is a Bewick's Wren.





And how about a Black Capped Chickadee?


Could this be a Dark-eyed Junco?





This one I have been unable to identify.  Looks like a little sparrow but it has a yellow throat and yellow under its wings.  Anyone know what this is??


And lastly, a precious, but not necessarily rare species.  This  species is found throughout the world and is often domesticated, though many remain wild.  It comes in many sizes and colors and can be found in the wild as well backyards.  Its habitat is varied and it does well in mountains, desert, north or south.  They go by varied names but this one is identified as the Red Legged Seed Spreader.  It’s my favorite old bird.

Pretty impressive wingspan!!


One more view of this magnificent creature.  I hear if you treat them right, they will hang around for years!!


That’s it!  I think I’ll quit while I’m ahead.