Birds in Yard

Ma was out mowing the back 40 when I noticed an Eastern Kingbird flitting about and landing repeatedly on the burn pile fence.

Later he landed on the chain for the tire swing...


The Kingbird completely lives up to its Latin name, tyrannus tyrannus, which would be something like, "double tyrant," in English.

This was one of the birds hassling the hawk, yesterday and they are fierce defenders of their nests and territory.

They also have a very cool ability to hover,
which you don't see in many besides the hummingbird.

I think that besides it's bossy attitude, the "king" part of the name may be attributed to a hard-to-see orange "crown" on it's head. Perhaps if I get it to face me while hovering.

Anyways, I told Ethan NOT to burn the trash for a while, for I'm thinking it might be protecting a nest built amongst the weeds I pulled and tossed there to dry.

Also along the bird theme, I was picking cherries the other day and heard this persistent chirping from nearby. Looking over I saw a fledgling Robin, sitting in the crook of our littlest apple tree.

Yes, they're common, but still cute to observe.

After the Kingbird incident, I went over to check on the baby Song Sparrows. At first I couldn't find it, but I pulled back this chunk of another nest...
...and here they are at day five. I count four birds here, so I'm not sure what happened to that unhatched egg from day one...

After interrogating the boys, I found out Trevor had placed that extra piece of nesting material over the hirds' home. I knew I'd regret showing them the location of the nest. It's hard for them to stay away.

Coming back across the yard, I discovered the Kingbird had coopted the mower.

Which reminds me....I need to get back to work!

But before I go, I'll tell about our big plans for tomorrow:

It's the State Republican Convention in Des Moines, and my erstwhile junior delegates are attending.

Provided I drive them.

So we're doing a repeat of the Dubuque Day of Fun...I drop off Melinda, Carolyn and Ethan, and then take Nolan and Trevor to different places around the city for amusement and education. I have several possibilities in mind, some of which depend on the weather.

Should be a lovely, long day.
 

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