Yesterday, around 10 am, there were tons of birds near and around our birdbath. Sparrows, probably about 40 of them, at least two Northern Flickers, some bluejays, and Northern Mockingbirds. They were everywhere, often sharing space on the rim of the birdbath, bathing, drinking, on the ground eating. It was amazing.
Clearly, they were migrating and decided – seemingly en masse – to visit this particular rest stop. It was extraordinary half hour or so. And then, in a second, they were gone. How fortunate we were to witness this. It took me a while to grab the camera so I missed out on some great shots.
Northern Flicker.
Northern Flicker and two Northern Mockingbirds (appropriate, don’t you think?)
And a local.
I’m going to keep this brief as I can’t really think of anything but Hurricane Milton, my sister and her family, and everyone in its path. This is terrifying.
Prayers for everyone in its path.
Stay safe.
Happy Wednesday.
kathy in iowa says
glad you saw the group and shared such sweet photos with us. thanks too for providing them all with a peaceful rest area and still water to enjoy.
prayers for everyone.
kathy
Claudia says
Thank you, Kathy.
Stay safe.
Ellen D. says
All of those lovely birds stopping by was a sweet break from your worries about Meredith and her boys. Thinking of them and hoping they stay safe.
Claudia says
Thank you so much, Ellen.
Stay safe.
Patty Andrews says
Good morning Claudia!
I don’t usually comment but wanted to share what I watch on YouTube regarding the hurricane, Milton.
There is a channel “Ryan Hall Y’all. He goes live during severe storms and he’s covering Milton. Not sure what exact time in the morning he starts but he will stay live with minimal commercials or none at all.
My prayers are with all those in the path of this monster storm. I hope your sister and family are safe. This is so scary!
Claudia says
Thanks so much, Patty! Much appreciated.
Stay safe.
Verna says
Good morning Claudia. I have always admired your birdbath. Northern Flickers are beautiful birds. We don’t have mocking birds. They look lovey. I really like that last visitor. Water is so important. The orange leaves in the bath! Your pictures started my day with calmness. Thank you for that. Hopefully your sister is well prepared and will stay out of danger. It will be a long day for you. Remember to take some deep breaths and calming Don hugs through the day.
Claudia says
I’m glad I provided some calm for you, Verna.
Thank you.
Stay safe.
Barrie says
Nice to see all those birds that you don’t typically see up close. The hurricane is so frightening…I hope all who needed to have evacuated. So devastating on the heels of Helene. Thinking of your sister and family!
Claudia says
Thank you so much, Barrie.
Stay safe.
Shanna says
Love watching birds at a birdbath. If we had one here it would always be full of squirrels and worse! We’re hunkered down and waiting for Milton. Should hit us here at about 3 in the morning, after it has done it’s worst on the rest of the state. Fingers crossed for power to stay on and trees to remain standing. Going back to San Francisco via number 7 of the many Women’s Murder Club books.
Claudia says
It’s hitting the west coast around 8 pm. Worried.
You stay safe, Shanna.
xo
kathy in iowa says
hej, shanna.
praying for you and fred, and everyone else in milton’s path (that includes you/ brendab!). hope your power stays on and that book offers a break. be safe.
at some point in the future, when you have power, a fully-charged cellphone and more than a minute to hopefully relax, will you please let us know that you’re okay? thanks much.
xo
kathy
Elaine in Toronto says
You and Don provided a lovely rest stop for the migrating birds and your pictures are beautiful. Prayers and thoughts for Meredith and her family and everyone in the path of the storm. Hugs, Elaine
Claudia says
Thank you so much, Elaine.
Very worried, but all we can do now is wait.
Stay safe.
Donnamae says
It’s nice that you are on the flying south route….lots of activity to provide a diversion for you. Great pics.
Wishing and hoping that everyone who desires to get to a shelter or safe place is able to. It’s an unbelievably powerful and gigantic storm. Prayers to your sister and her family. ;)
Claudia says
Thank you, Donnamae.
All three of Mere’s sons are with her as well as my nephew’s fiancee. Glad they’re all together.
Stay safe.
Donnamae says
Glad to hear that. Have they evacuated?
Claudia says
No. They aren’t in an evacuation zone.
Irene dykstra says
Praying for your family. Please keep us informed. A few days Mabel (I think) really rocked her Beatles tee and red and white high tops. Claudia, I’m begging you not to quite the blog. It’s something I look forward to every day. We all love you!
Claudia says
Thanks so much, Irene.
Stay safe.