Spring Forward

Goldfinches are beginning to gain their summer plumage             © Diane B Reed

Spring is on the cusp. One day it's warm and sunny, the next day it's cold and windy. There is still snow on the Blue Mountains. But the birds are already gearing up for the coming season—they're not waiting for a definitive change in the weather. The goldfinches on our feeder are well on their way to their bright yellow summer plumage, and they're increasingly feisty. 

Our returning Osprey                    © Diane B Reed

 Some of our regular summer visitors have returned. On Wednesday, Hank, our Blue Heron showed up for the first time this spring. It was like an old friend had returned. The muskrats are out and about, though we haven't seen the mink yet.

Yesterday a familiar figure flew low and slow over the pond, signaling the return of our Osprey. He and Hank will be regular visitors to the pond over the summer. When they stock the pond for the April 23 fishing derby later this month, they'll find plenty of reason to make the pond a regular stop on their hunting trips.

New visitors to the pond, Turkeys                      © Diane B Ree

We had some surprise visitors to the pond early this morning. A small flock of turkeys ventured out into the corner of the park near the bridge over Garrison Creek. We're looking forward to welcoming spring to the pond!