Southern sky.
I looked out the window first thing at an overcast day. Then I stepped out on the deck and saw a pileated woodpecker on the trunk of a big oak. I stepped back inside for my camera—but the woodpecker was high in the branches by then, and soon it flew. It was a female.
Soon after, I heard a nuthatch. But nameless exigencies kept me at my desk the rest of the morning. I didn’t get up and out until afternoon.
Birch.
Still overcast when we arrived at Beech Hill, although I could see the sun hanging just beyond the clouds. Jack and I met Ian on the trail and we talked of mowing and land preservation and stewardship. Then we met Joe at the summit and chatted casually—as if we weren’t standing on one of the most miraculous overlooks on the centeral coast. None of us wore gloves, I noticed. Secretly, I wondered if I was the only one whose hands and fingers were stingingly cold.
I heard chickadees in more than one spot on the hill. Also crows. But those were the only birds on my Beech Hill list today.
Driving home, I came upon three turkeys crossing the road. Well, two had crossed already, while one was hanging back. Turkeys are big birds. I can imagine that if I were a native in these parts five or six centuries ago and came upon a flock of turkeys like that, I’d do my best to figure out how to bring one home for dinner. In my time and place, however, I have no desire to eat one.
Later, before dark, I heard a titmouse up the hill out back. Just after dark, it began to rain lightly. Then the rain stopped, and the wind rose. Then the rain began again—a light rain. I couldn’t help but notice that the weekend weather forecasts are calling for snow showers. But it occurs to me that by New Year’s there’ll likely be ice skating going on.
Beech Hill List
Beginning at 2 p.m., I hiked the open trail.
1. Black-capped chickadee (voice)
2. American crow (voice)
Elsewhere
3. Pileated woodpecker
4. White-breasted nuthatch
5. Wild turkey
6. Tufted titmouse
7. Herring gull
Mossy stump.
Tags: American crow, black-capped chickadee, herring gull, pileated woodpecker, tufted titmouse, white-breasted nuthatch, wild turkey
