Missed Opportunities

Cedar Waxwing

I would like to take credit for this awesome photo of a beautiful Cedar Waxwing, but unfortunately I cannot.

Yesterday, I had the pleasure of having a flock of Cedar Waxwings converge on my yard and crowd the birdbath on my deck.  I knew immediately what was happening, as I saw the telltale signs of a waxwing flock.  My cedar tree was filled with birds, and the limbs were moving as if the tree were actually "alive".  I peered out the window onto my deck and saw a half dozen waxwings enjoying my birdbath.

What's wrong with this scenario?  After realizing that I had a wonderful opportunity to capture some great photos, I discovered that both batteries for my Olympus camera were dead!  I couldn't get a single shot off.  By the time I loaded a battery into the charger, and had it sufficiently charged...the Cedar Waxwing flock had moved on.

I advocate that bird watchers should always have a camera handy should that elusive "bird" moment arrive.  I guess I need to remind birders to also make sure you have fully charged batteries in "said" camera.

While I missed what was most likely a "once-in-a-season" opportunity, I have learned a very important lesson.

For more information on this fascinating species, check out Cedar Waxwings at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology website @ Cedar Waxwing.

Belinda's Website

Wild Birds as Therapy

Indigo Bunting

Sometimes life throws us an unexpected curve ball. Whether you find yourself facing a sudden job loss, serious illness or the death of a loved one, making time for the birds can be an unexpected source of comfort.

When you are feeling as though your world as been turned upside down, establishing a connection with nature during troubling times can keep you grounded.  There are numerous studies to support the fact that viewing and/or feeding wild birds can provide calming health benefits as well.  Simply taking a few minutes each day to fill your feeders and/or to identify different bird songs is quite therapeutic.

If you haven't already started the "addicting" habit of birding, it's not too late to start.  Sharing your hobby with those who may benefit from it is a wonderful way of giving comfort in their time of need.  There are plenty of inexpensive feeder options that can provide for maximum success and enjoyment.  Most independent lawn and garden centers have staff on hand that can create a "starter kit" to give as a gift.  They can help you determine what type of feeder/bird seed is most appropriate for their location and can also assist you with any bird guides for their area.  If a bird feeder is not desired, the garden center can also suggest a birdbath or flowers, trees and shrubs suitable for attracting birds.

Sharing the gift of birding, while beneficial to the human recipient, also helps provide for our feather friends as well!

Happy Birding!!!

Belinda's Website