Carol's Corner

Wildflower Recap and Chickadee Charm

Where did summer go? Remember that pollinator garden I planted back in April? I noted wildly successful results—bumblebees and butterflies savored the pollen and nectar of the blooms in the summer while the fall brought hordes of goldfinches that lounged on the stalks and fed on seed.

Sadly the wildflowers are now gone, yet thankfully the birds remain, frequenting my feeders in great numbers. My normal morning routine consists of walking the farm and filling the feeders. Every once in a while, I am compelled to grab a handful of seed and simply “become the feeder.”

This week, on a crisp, cold, 19 degree morning, I bundled up in my down jacket and stepped outside. I took the empty feeder down and stood in its place with my arm outstretched waiting for the hungry masses to come. Soon I could hear them approaching. Wings fluttered around me—music to my ears. I didn’t dare move. Suddenly, I felt something alight on my shoulder. And then that curious, bold Mountain Chickadee hopped into my hand, grabbed a choice nugget and flew off to enjoy breakfast, only to return for seconds. And thirds.

I stood in breathless wonder. For in that brief encounter, the daily stressors of life are forgotten. When nature alights on your hand the cares of the world fly away. And I find myself ready to begin another day.

I hope you are well. I look forward to hearing of your backyard birding adventures on your next visit to WBU.

Have a Bluebird Day,

Carol