A morning much like yesterday’s—and arguably even funner. For one thing, the earth and sky were gorgeous. For another, I caught a glimpse of a Merlin, which was cool. And for yet another, I encountered three Juniper Titmice. That’s a record for the species.
For some reason, eBird thinks more than one JUTI seems unlikely on this patch at this season. But I’ve seen two a few times. Three today.
Otherwise, a couple male flickers added a nice splash of color to an already (mutedly) colorful landscape.
I do ?? fall.
Grandeur Peak Area List Beginning at 8:41 a.m., I hiked a few hundred feet up a mountain.
Pretty good variety this morning, bird-wise. About ten degrees (F) warmer than yesterday in the mountain shade—comfortable walking weather. Things started out rather quiet, but picked up soon enough.
On something of a lark, we followed a few deer trails across unfamiliar slopes, dog and I, which was interesting for both of us. Also followed a Juniper Titmouse around and, at quite a distance, spotted a Steller’s Jay in flight.
Temps in the 30s (F) when dog and I hit the shady trail. No clouds above us, a bit of a breeze, clean, sweet-tasting air, and quite a few birds about still.
Against this mid-October backdrop, I encountered the usual fall migration suspects—towhees, juncos, a couple kinglets, one yellow-rump—but not bad numbers. Several popped up for photos.
But I was especially thankful for the chickadee who struck a pose.
Grandeur Peak Area List Beginning at 8:35 a.m., I hiked a few hundred feet up a mountain.
