Return of the Juncos

The Juncos have returned

to southwest Michigan

after breeding and nesting

in northern Ontario.

In October and November

I watch them feed

on the minute seeds

of my garden weeds.

Their dark eyes shine

from the slate-colored head

as they pick at the stems

with a pale pink beak.

In winter they scrape and claw

frozen ground under the feeders

with a scritch-scratch,

forward and back.

From the gray tail,

narrow white feathers

flare and flash as they

hop and bop around the shrubs.

Then, some decide to leave,

and a dozen or more

hurry away to catch up.

This small flock of chittering chips.

© 2023 Richard Havenga

Photo Locations: Home Garden - Cannonsburg, Michigan

 

At the Bird Feeder

 

At the bird feeder:

A Black-capped Chickadee

gives way to

a Tufted Titmouse.

The Tufted Titmouse

gives way to

a White-breasted Nuthatch.

The White-breasted Nuthatch

gives way to 

a Red-bellied Woodpecker.

The Red-bellied Woodpecker

gives way to

a Blue Jay.

The Blue Jay

gives way

to a Northern Flicker.

All winter long, the feeder

gives away a focal point

of captivating interest for Birders.

left: Hairy Woodpecker, right : Red-bellied Woodpecker

Accept the gift.

Feed the birds.

Watch the feeders.

© 2023 Richard Havenga

Photo Locations:

1. Cascade Township - Kent County - Michigan

2. > 8. Home Feeders - Cannonsburg, Michigan