Hi everyone: I'm an amateur backyard kind of birdwatcher. I've noticed changes this past year. Some species haven't shown up, some are more plentiful. Anyone else noticed this in their area?
For example, I've not seen a single Painted Bunting this year, Very disappointing.
And, we have a bumper crop - so to speak - of Northern Cardinals. We have at least 3 pairs nesting in for very near our garden. And we had lots of young ones over the summer. Here's mom.

And here's a young 'un.

We have more Carolina Chickadees than any one garden needs, but I'd miss their chatter if they went elsewhere.

But, Blue Jays were rare this summer, as were Mockingbirds, although I've noticed a few more of them the past few weeks. Like this fella...
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Still, No juncos yet, no Chipping Sparrows, and the Goldfinches are late returning.
And, everyday, I watch for the Cedar Waxings, who seem to pass through for about 2 days each fall.
Anyway, I thought maybe this would be a nice place to post "first sightings" - either of the season - or first sightings ever. Whaddaya think? I hope to add some in the next week or two.
Please do join in with your sightings.
Deb