White-breasted Nuthatch.

The solstitial moment will have come
and gone before I next rise.
The last day of autumn is nearly done.
All day I’ve thought it was Friday,
which is an odd thing to think on a Tuesday.

But now, here, tonight, I realize
it’s because this is the eve of a new year.
Not a new calendar year,
nor even a new solar year—
those start with the vernal equinox—

But a new year of sweet relief
at knowing yet again that daylight
won’t continue to diminish away
but will lengthen again, as it always has,
from time immemorial.

Early sunset.

Beech Hill List
Beginning at 3:15 p.m., I hiked the open trail.

1. White-breasted Nuthatch*
2. Black-capped Chickadee* (v)
3. Northern Shrike
4. Northern Flicker (v)
5. American Crow* (v)
6. Sparrow (spp)

Elsewhere

7. Downy Woodpecker
8. Blue Jay (v)
9. Tufted Titmouse (v)
10. Herring Gull
11. Rock Pigeon
12. Red-tailed Hawk

v = Voice only
*Also elsewhere

Evening dog.