Monday, March 16, 2009

Turning Toward Springtime

White-breasted Nuthatch
(Sitta carolinensis)

Winter remains for the most part, but here and there are stones and patches of desiccated grass revealed by the snow drifts as they recede in the stronger sunlight.

For all the remaining grimy detritus of winter, there is definitely springtime in the air here. The stubbly corn fields are filled with grazing geese newly returned to the fold. Chickadees, nuthatches, redpolls and cardinals have already paired up for the nesting season, and the ravens are cavorting overhead and singing ribald ditties to each other and anyone below.

Today, I was up well before sunrise and went out to the veranda with my mug of Darjeeling to greet the moon as she rose behind the bare ash trees in the garden. That too is a sign of spring.

5 comments:

Lil said...

Cate, it's been awile!

I'm turning towards spring as well...inhaling the little sprouts in our garden and the buds on the trees. even the little ones got into the compost and broke it all down "mom, it smells like mint!"...

I realize that I LOVE this time of year. It couldn't come soon enough, but for some reason, this time 'round the wheel I seem to be seeing more with my heart and it's invigoration! will post pics soon...

It's lovely the "spring-come-soon" phots your taking!

Lil xo

Anonymous said...

What a beautiful image of the nuthatch.

Sky said...

oh, glory be - spring is arriving here! i have never wanted to see my old friend so badly before. a weekend of strange, winter weather will not deter her arrival. she keeps moving forward to my delight. daffodils are opening, heather is blooming, and crocuses are dotting the gardens in colors of easter eggs!

Endment said...

Delightful shot! The nuthatches are some of my favorites

Printemps said...

WoW! Photo - spring is arriving...