Morning All......

Started my first count day at 5:30 this morning, (think I'm a little
excited?) and what a great day it was.
It rained a little last night but dawned clear and bright today. Things were
pretty quiet until about 6:15 when the first White-crown showed up. At 6:30,
the MODOs began to show up right on schedule, and didn't let me down with
their numbers.
17 species in all stopped by this beautiful day, and all in just under 3
hours.

Mourning Doves = 68
House Sparrows = 21 :(
House Finch = 10 in Orange/Red/Yellow
Gold-crowned Sparrow = 2
White-crowned Sparrow = 5
Junco = 3
Scrub Jay = 3
Am. Goldfinch = 1
Yellow-rumped Warbler = 6 eating lerps and using the bath
Red-shafted Flicker = 2 hunting ants at edge of sidewalk
Anna's Hummer = 1 sipping juice and singing loudly
American Robin = 1
Starling = 1
Mocker = 1
Cedar Waxwings = 16 eating lerps in the trees, berries next door and sipping
from the bath
Red-breasted Nuthatch = 1 finally checking out my trees and "inking " loudly
Fox Squirrels = 2

Truly, a very good start for the season. : )

I checked out the new PFW site last night and found it to be very nice. Great
new look, but a few little bugs still linger. Using my MAC at home, I must
use Explorer 4.5 and I had to download the new Java utility, but everything
worked great.
I got to set up my profile and used the new mapping tool to pin point my
feeder site. It was rather easy to use, but you must pay attention to exactly
what you are doing. My old ID number worked great and I'm all set to ininput
my data.

Let the games begin!!!!!!!!

Good Birding All!
Kris "Aves" McNew
Fresno, CA 93728

Morning all....

I just finished up my second morning of counting. Not much change since
yesterday but the addition of a second Goldfinch gives me hope. lol
I did see an Am. Robin with lots of white scattered throughout his plumage.
There were lots of patches of white on his face and head.
All in all, a most enjoyable first count.

Now for the fun part......
6:00 = The sky begins to lighten and I can finally make out the birds at the
feeders. The Gold and White crowns are the first to show up, along with a
lone Junco.
6:15 = I watch as the MODOs begin to arrive. You can see them flying in from
all over the neighborhood in small groups. The HOSPs arrive and take
advantage of the quiet time before the storm descends upon the yard. 4 Doves
drop to the feeders.
6:25 = 8 MODO
6:30 = 30 MODO
6:35 = 58 MODO
6:40 = 64 MODO
6:45 = 70 MODO
6:50 = 88 MODO
6:55 = 97 MODO
7:00 = 100 MODO
7:06 = 108 MODO!!!!!!!!!!!!
7:08 = The MODOs are scattered by the arrival of the Scrub Jays. 2 MODO
7:15 = 10 MODO
7:20 = 30 MODO......
And so continues the rest of the morning. The MODOs arrive and depart in
small groups now. 10 here, 5 there, until the day will be spent with at least
one or two at the feeders and a scattering in the trees and on the wires.

Totals for first count period:
MODO = 108
HOSP = 21
HOFI = 10
GCSP = 2
WCSP = 6
JUNCO = 3
WESJ = 3
AMGO = 2
RCKI = 1
YRWA = 6
RSFL = 2
AMRO = 2
ANHU = 1
EUST = 1
NOMO = 1
CEDW = 16
RBNU = 1

Good Birding All!
Kris "Aves" McNew
Fresno, CA 93728

All right you guys...Nobody wants any of these Doves?? Please!!!

This morning was pretty exciting:
8 White-Crowned SParrows, 1 Gold-Crowned SParrow, 2 Juncos, 2 WEstern
Scrub Jays, 1 Ruby-Crowned KIinglet, a scattering of Yellow-Rumped
WArblers, 2 Red-Shafted FLickers,7 HOuse SParrows, 8 HOuse FInch, and
only 47 MOurning DOves. All in only 30 minutes and 1 cup of coffee.

I'm heading up to the mountains this weekend to visit a friend. It
will be interesting to see what I find up at 5,000 feet and under a
foot of snow.

Good Birding All!!
Aves
Fresno, CA 93728

Howdy all.....

Home at last! What a nice weekend I've had, and what
wonderful birds to fill it with.

Friday, I was picked up and swept away to the
mountains. Big Creek sits at the back of a canyon at
5,000 feet in the Sierra. We arrived well after dark
but who cares, when the sky is so full of stars!? We
sat on the patio in 24 degrees enjoying hot toddies
and smokes and watched stars shooting across the sky.
It was so beautiful.

Saturday morning, I was up bright and early, enjoying
coffee and watching 8 Acron Woodpeckers picking over
the acorns my friend puts on his platform feeder. They
were so pretty against the backdrop of snow. There
were patches of the white stuff everywhere, glittering
in the sun and really setting off the birds. Juncos
are EVERYWHERE up there. I couldn't begin to count
them all. There was even a Slate-colored among all the
Oregon varieties. I got some wonderful views of
Mountain Chickakees as they came into his hanging
feeder filled with mixed seed. The Stellar's Jays rule
the roost up there and a Red-shafted Flicker yelping
from the top of a pine tree made my day.

My friend is the principal of the elementary school up
there, and I'm trying to get him involved with
Classroom FeederWatch. I think I'm getting through! ;)

When I got home on Sunday, my feeders were empty and
nary a bird in sight. I filled them up and took my
spot on the stoop to see what was going on in the
yard. 10 minutes, and 6 Goldfinch arrived, the
resident Scrub Jays were next followed by 3 WCSPs. A
male Anna's enjoys the mexican sage, his fushia throat
looking so nice with the deep purple of the sage
flowers.
Ruby-crowned Kinglets and Yellow-rumps flit about the
trees, chirping happily. A Gold-crown sparrow shows up
next along with a Junco and a couple HOFI. It wasn't
long before the MODOs began to gather in the trees and
all is right in my world.

This morning, life goes on as usual. 7:00 a.m. and
there are 86 MODOs feeding in a frenzy. HOFI, HOSP,
WCSP, Juncos, GCSP, Scrub Jays, GOFI, Ms Squirrel and
a special guest in the form of a Spotted Towhee, are
all joining in the breakfast buffet. It is good to be
home :D

Good Birding All!!
Aves
Fresno, CA 93728

=====
Cheers! Kris : )

__________________________________________________
Do You Yahoo!?
Yahoo! Calendar - Get organized for the holidays!
http://calendar.yahoo.com/

May you all have wonderful things to be thankful for
on this special day.

Good Birding All!
Aves
Fresno, CA 93728

=====
Cheers! Kris : )

__________________________________________________
Do You Yahoo!?
Yahoo! Shopping - Thousands of Stores. Millions of Products.
http://shopping.yahoo.com/

Just a few of the regular visitors to the yard. This
is a normal morning!
Eat your heart out Mr. Hitchcock!!

Aves
Fresno, CA 93728

=====
Cheers! Kris : )

__________________________________________________
Do You Yahoo!?
Yahoo! Shopping - Thousands of Stores. Millions of Products.
http://shopping.yahoo.com/

Howdy All!!

I think I've almost recovered from Thanksgiving
weekend. All the running around, socializing and
eating sure takes it out of ya.
It all started Wednesday evening with the arrival of
my friend from Trinidad. He was nice enough to bring
me a new book on the common backyard birds of
Trinidad. :)
Then to the cooking! Well, Joy was cooking and I was
in charge of Devin.
On Thursday, I chose to start my count period. A
normal morning with coffee and MODOs in abundance. By
the time everyone got up and ready for the day, I had
counted for several hours, so it was a good start to
my day. Off to Joy's mom's where a covey of 20 CA
Quail were the highlight of the day. It was probably
one of the best family gatherings in a long time.
Friday, I finished off my counting period with 16
species. MODO = 104; Anna's = 1; Flicker = 1; Scrub
Jay = 2; Crow = 1; Ruby-crowned Kinglet = 1; Robin =
4; Mocker = 1; Starling = 1; YR Warbler = 6; GCSP = 4;
WCSP = 6; Junco = 5; HOFI = 16; AMGO = 1; HOSP = 18.
Then it was off to Hanford to pick up Joy and her
sister and see the christmas parade.
On Saturday, I took my friend shopping. Of course it
was crazy, but it was fun to watch his eyes light up
as we sped through store after store. With the
exchange rates the way they are, everything he saw was
CHEAP, and I must admit, he went just a little crazy.
LOL
On Sunday, we drove him back up the mountain to our
friend's place at Big Creek. We all sat around gabbing
and joking, but I was busy watching the Mountain
Chickadees, Juncos and Stellar's Jays empting the bird
feeder. LOL

Good Birding All!
Aves
Fresno, CA 93728

__________________________________________________
Do You Yahoo!?
Yahoo! Shopping - Thousands of Stores. Millions of Products.
http://shopping.yahoo.com/

Howdy all....

Among the throng of MODOs (60+), HOFI (20), HOSP (18),
WCSP (5), and GCSP (3) at the feeders this morning,
there was a sad sight.
A beautiful little sky blue Parakeet (Budgie) was
feeding on the ground.
I know the bird owners among us, do everything in our
power to keep our pets safe and healthy, even when
they get into mischief. ;) I hate seeing a domestic
bird fending for itself in an alien environment. At
least he knows where to find some grub and I hope he
comes back.

Good Birding!
Aves
Fresno, CA 93728

__________________________________________________
Do You Yahoo!?
Yahoo! Shopping - Thousands of Stores. Millions of Products.
http://shopping.yahoo.com/

Howdy all.....

Why must the weekends go so fast? Why must there
always be so much to do? LOL
Friday night, the fog rolled into the city, en
shrouding it in a thick mist. The one good thing about
it, is the way it makes the Christmas lights stand
out. The water condenses on everything, and it seems
like a gentle rain has kissed the world and drops fall
from the trees.
Saturday morning, I can't see past the end of my yard.
Across the street the world becomes surreal. Shapes
and forms vanish into a grey world that is the
opposite of Marilyn's crisp outlined world of negative
space. The birds are slow to start on wet days like
this. Even at 8:00, there is little or no activity
visible from the window, but that changes very
rapidly. The sparrows are the first to arrive. GCSPs,
WCSPs, HOSPs are the frist visitors, and then the rain
of MODOs begins. For 10 minutes, I sit and count them
as they land. My grand total was 114! I just know I'm
going to hit 120 before this season is over. The HOFI
arrive with the doves and my yard is alive with every
shade of brown that exists, feeding in a frenzy of
feathers. The little blue Budgie paid three visits to
the feeder on Saturday. His sky blue plumage shining
like a beacon among all the earth tones. He seems
healthy enough and no worse for wear.
We stayed in most of the day, and it gave me the
opportunity to watch the feeders most of the day.
Juncos flit about, YRWAs enjoy the Lerps and bath, a
pair of Brewer's Blackbirds join the Robins and RSFL
working over the yard. The resident Crow struts across
the yard and then flies to his post on the corner and
proclaims his ownership of the neighborhood. Periods
of inactivity are followed by large groups of
visitors. The squirrels and Scrub Jays race to see who
can bury the most peanuts.
The MODOs spend the afternoon in the trees, on the
wires and roofs, huddling against the chill. They
visit in groups of 10 - 30 for the remainder of the
day, with a second high count of 74 at 1:36 p.m.
Sunday was another dreary day. A little WCSP showed
up, a large growth on his lower left leg and missing
his right eye! I couldn't get a good look at his foot,
but the eye looks like it has just shrunk down into
the socket and is closed forever. He doesn't seem to
have any problem feeding, and scraps with the other
WCSP that show up. My little lone Goldfinch showed up
again today among the 18 HOFI who where fighting over
the BOSS feeders.
I had to return a movie before noon, so it cut my
counting short today, but it gave me an opportunity to
venture out into the world of mists. When I walked out
the door, my senses were assaulted. WCSP, Juncos,
HOSP, Starlings....all singing and chirping their
hearts out as if the sun were shining brightly. The
doves explode into flight from every point around the
house and those that linger are simply shapes in the
fog.
It is amazing how the thick fog transmits sound. I
could hear the wing beats of every bird, from the tiny
warblers to the deep beats of the jays.
As I walked through the quiet of the neighborhood, I
could hear the drops of water falling from the trees.
The moisture coating everything, made the colors pop
in the flat light that penetrates the gloom. As I
passed under trees, I could hear the sound of flock of
Goldfinch and Waxwings calling from above. The fog
forces you to bird by ear and form, since that is all
you see through the grey stuff. It was a wonderful
walk and a beautiful weekend.
Good Birding All!!
Aves
Fresno, CA 93728

__________________________________________________
Do You Yahoo!?
Yahoo! Shopping - Thousands of Stores. Millions of Products.
http://shopping.yahoo.com/

Howdy All...

Well, I knew this would happen eventually. When I
looked out the window this morning, among the 100+
MODOs and assorted regulars, there was an unexpected
guest. A big, fat RODO!! Where there is one, there is
bound to be more. Oh well, ya can't win them all.
That's what happens when you advertise a good thing.
LOL

Good Birding!
Aves
Fresno, CA 93728

__________________________________________________
Do You Yahoo!?
Yahoo! Shopping - Thousands of Stores. Millions of Products.
http://shopping.yahoo.com/

I thought you might enjoy hearing about this. I think
it would be so cute to see it in person. Happy
Holidays!

Aves


<<Although I had a rather unproductive day generally,
I did manage, with the
  usual cussing, to get the colored holiday lights up
in the back.  Will have
  to do the front tomorrow as the light has gone.  All
the while I was doing
  the lights, however, I was surrounded by very excited
chickadees, zipping
  and zee-zee-ing all around me.  I could almost swear
they remembered the
  lights from last year and were all a-twitter about
getting their "foot
  warmers" back!  Naaaaw.  And yet.....
  Anway, I now have pink and blue and green and gold
chickadees again, and
  they seem well pleased!   Cheers, Marilyn, Seattle>>

__________________________________________________
Do You Yahoo!?
Yahoo! Shopping - Thousands of Stores. Millions of Products.
http://shopping.yahoo.com/

Howdy All....

Well, I finished reading my new FeederWatcher's Guide
from cover to cover, and I love it.

Unlike so many other feeder guides out there, this one
is more personal. Not cluttered with diagrams, charts
and lists, it is like talking with old friends. Great
advice, wonderful tips, and more information gleaned
from real experience than you can imagine.
It covers all the feeding basics, identification of
common feeder birds and rich prose make this a great
introduction for anyone interested in birds. It was
fun seeing so many familiar names scattered throughout
the book, and seeing such beautiful pictures! I
proclaim it an easy read with a personal touch that
should inspire many to join our flock. :)

Only one small goof. The caption under the picture on
page 14 bothered me a lot. "Four cardinals and a
junco...." Don't look to closely, the bird in the
shadows isn't a junco at all, but a Blue Jay. :O
The size of the bird bothered me, and I had to pull
out my printer's loop to get a good look. Yup, a jay!

But why should I be so picky when I have such a
delightful book to enjoy?! Thanks to all you PFWs!!

Good Reading All!!
Aves
Fresno, CA 93728

=====
Cheers! Kris : )

__________________________________________________
Do You Yahoo!?
Yahoo! Shopping - Thousands of Stores. Millions of Products.
http://shopping.yahoo.com/

Howdy All....

I was awoken this moring by the gruff cooing of the
Spotted Dove. It was in the pine tree in my neighbor's
back yard, right behind our bedroom window. He hasn't
been visiting very often, so I guess all the comotion
at the feeders if drawing him closer.
When I got up and looked out the window, there were 8
WCSPs and 4 GCSPs feeding in the early light. Thirty
minutes later, I peeked out and saw the usual 100+
MODOs pigging out at the freshly filled feeders. Boris
and Natasha were busy carrying off peanuts. Just
another day.

Aves
Fresno, CA 93728

__________________________________________________
Do You Yahoo!?
Yahoo! Shopping - Thousands of Stores. Millions of Products.
http://shopping.yahoo.com/

Howdy all.....

I'm done watching for the morning and we're planning some shopping this
afternoon.
I've got several birds with bum legs, a WCSP with two bad eyes, and a fluffed
up HOFI. :(
Plus 106 MODOs!!
But the best guest to stop by this morning was a Hermit Thrush!!
I hope tomorrow is just as exciting!!
Not to cold here yet, but they are expecting lows in the 30's within the next
couple of days and possible rain on Monday.

Good Birding All!
Kris "Aves" McNew
Fresno, CA 93728

Wanted:
A bright, energetic individual with a love of birds for part time counting
duties.
Must be able to juggle large numbers in a short amount of time.
Hours are from 6:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m., weekends preferable.
No special equipment necessary, all supplies and coffee will be provided.
All interested parties should contact Aves.

Good Birding!
Kris "Aves" McNew
Fresno, CA

Howdy All....

I said I would reach 120 MODOs by the end of the season, and sure enough, it
has happened. While Saturday was rather busy at the feeders, with 17 species
visiting. Today was MODO day!

The sun came up bright and clear and the doves arrived right on schedule.
(7:12 a.m.) There were a few sparrows and a couple juncos feeding peacefully
when the first dove landed.  In the next 15 minutes, everything else got
ignored while I tallied each dove as it arrived. By 7:30 a.m., there were 133
simmering in the front yard. This frenzy continued until 7:43 a.m., when a
passing dog sent the flock exploding into the air. Scared the *^&$ out of the
dog. LOL

So here's my weekend totals:
MOurning DOve = 133* (Saturday = 106 / Sunday = 133)
White-Crowned SParrow = 12 (one with a crusted over eye and a swollen eye,
and bum leg)
Gold-Crowned SParrow = 4 (but I know there are more out there)
Junco = 2 (there are more, but too shy to visit)
Yellow-Rumped WArbler = 6
Western Scrub JAy = 3
HOuse SParrow = 12 (down from last week)
HOuse FInch = 22 (one female, very puffed up and sluggish, a male with a bum
leg)
AMerican GOldfinch = 1 (a male with a bum leg)
AMerican RObin = 1
Ruby-Crowned KInglet = 3 (fighting over lerps)
AMerican CRow = 1
Red-Shafted FLicker = 1
HErmit THrush = 1* (a special guest appearance)
Starling = 1
ANna's HUmmingbird = 1 (a darling juv. male)
CEdar WAxwings = 24 (enjoying the lerp buffet)
FOx SQuirrel = 2

All in all, another good counting period. I did spend some time out on the
front stoop, camera in hand, getting some snapshots of the Jays and other
stuff. I sure hope some of them come out. The light on Saturday wasn't the
best for taking pictures, but the birds were sure cooperative. Now off to
pull out christmas boxes, tree, lights and assorted junk.


Good Birding All!
Kris "Aves" McNew
Fresno, CA 93728

Howdy All.....

The clouds are moving in today, and the sky is a
mosaic of grey, white and blue. A gentle breeze stirs
the leaves and the temps are hovering in the 40s.
At 7:30 a.m., the feeders were empty because a black
cat was exploring them. :( But a quick tap on the
glass sent him off in a hurry.
7:45 a.m., and I'm out the door. The flock of 90+
MODOs , a few WCSPs, HOFI, HOSP, and a couple Juncos
burst into flight.....and a familiar sound draws my
eyes to the sky. A pair of Belted Kingfishers is
circling over the neighborhood! They did look a little
confused, but there are enough places in the city for
them to find a suitable place to rest and refuel.
As I crossed the street to the bus stop, a juv.
Cooper's Hawk flew out of a big pine tree, heading in
the direction of my house. I know he'll find something
tasty there to eat. ;) LOL
All this excitement going on and I have to be here at
work....darn!

Good Birding All!!
Aves
Fresno, CA 93728

__________________________________________________
Do You Yahoo!?
Yahoo! Shopping - Thousands of Stores. Millions of Products.
http://shopping.yahoo.com/

Evening All....

Living in the heart of the city, one doesn't always
get to experience the full wonders of nature. But not
tonight!
As we came home from dinner this evening, Jupiter
shining as brightly as the Christmas lights, a
wonderous sound caught my ear.
Above the din of the city streets, Hoo Hoo Hoo. A
Great Horned Owl was sitting in the tall redwood tree
in our neighbor's back yard, telling the world where
he was.
What a special treat on this beautiful winter night.

Good Birding All!
Aves
Fresno, CA 93728

__________________________________________________
Do You Yahoo!?
Yahoo! Shopping - Thousands of Stores. Millions of Products.
http://shopping.yahoo.com/

Howdy all you frozen snow birds. :)

It has been a most interesting count period for me out
here.

Saturday, I got up just a little later than usual and
found the feeders nearly deserted and the few birds
present acting very nervous. The high fog was thick
and bathed the world in a gray light. It didn't take
me long to find the reason for their strange behavior.
As a group of HOFI were feeding on the raised
platform, a dark shape burst from the perennial border
along the fence. Like a slow motion movie, I watched
the feral black cat leap into the air and snag one of
the HOFI with a single paw. :( It landed, bird in
mouth and turned to look right at me, eyes glaring
wildly. grrrrrr I tapped the window, and it ran off
with its prey. (I want a cat trap for Christmas!!) But
that's what happens when you live in a city of
irresponsible pet owners. :(
Anyway, after 30 minutes, things returned to normal.
The MODOs descended, but in fewer numbers. (only 62
this time). The juvenile WCSP with the bad eyes and
bum leg is still hanging in there. The growth below
his right eye is now the size of a small pea, but he's
doing well in spite of his disability.
A HOFI showed up that looked strange. He looks all the
world like a female until he flies. He has the
brightest yellow rump I've ever seen! A group of CEdar
WAxwings spent the afternoon sitting in the trees,
lisping softly and spitting out berry pits all over
the yard. By late afternoon, the sun broke through the
goo and it turned into a sunny warm day for us to go
to the store and stock up on baking goods.

Today, I had to scare off the same black cat, but this
time he ran off empty mouthed. :) Things quickly
returned to normal. It seems warmer today, but the
yuck is back, and we won't be seeing any sunshine at
all. A Yellow-rumped Warbler discovered a piece of
buttered bread Joy had thrown out, and has spent the
entire day feasting on it! The WCSPs like the bread
too. ;)
They day has progressed normally, with lots of WCSPs
and HOFI feeding in large groups. But there has been
one moment of excitement.
I was watching a group of LBBs feeding, when suddenly
they exploded in every direction. I searched the sky,
and saw a Red-tailed Hawk stooping in the direction of
my yard!! It was after one of the squirrels in the
upper branches of the tree closest to the house. The
alarm sounded by the LBBs gave the squirrel just
enough time to escape the attack. The hawk circled
over the house and took off across the street. WOW!

So now, I'm off to bake yet another batch of cookies
before we rush off to a party tonight. You all take
care out there!

Count Totals:

MOurning DOve = 62
Gold-Crowned SParrow = 3
White-Crowned SParrow = 17
HOuse FInch = 36
HOuse SParrow = 26
WEstern Scrub Jay = 2
Dark-Eyed JUnco = 4
Red-Shafted FLicker = 1
Yellow-Rumped WArbler = 6
Ruby-Crowned KInglet = 4
CEdar WAxwing = 24
AMerican CRow = 1
ANna's HUmmer = 2
AMerican RObin = 1
AMerican GOldfinch = 1
Red-Tailed HAwk = 1
FOx SQuirrel = 2

Good Birding All!
Aves
Fresno, CA 93728

__________________________________________________
Do You Yahoo!?
Yahoo! Shopping - Thousands of Stores. Millions of Products.
http://shopping.yahoo.com/

Howdy Feathered Friends :)

Check out some of my newest pics.

Ever wonder what 166 MODOs looks like? Check it out and see how many
you can count.

I also posted a couple pictures of the Juv. WCSP that has been hanging
out in my yard for over a month. Other than being afflicted with these
strange growths and a bum eye, he seems to be doing well.

It won't touch the suet (yet) but the buttered bread is a big hit with
this Yellow-rumped Warbler.

Good Birding All!
Aves
Fresno, CA 93728

Morning all....

The feeders were empty until 7:30 today. First the
squirrel, then a handfull of HOSP arrived with about
20 WCSPs and a couple of GCSPs. Only 48 MODOs today.
;)

Another sunny day has dawned here in Fresburg. Looks
like we just might reach the 60s again today.
On my trek to the bus stop this morning, I paused at
an intersection here in the neighborhood, and caught
sight of something special.
As I scanned the street for cars, my eye was drawn to
something whizzing up the street. I waited to see what
this bird was, zooming along with quick powerful wing
beats. A beautiful, very dark, Merlin shot by at roof
level, giving me only the smallest of passing glances.
Such a powerful little wonder of nature. :)

Good Birding!
Happy Holidays!
Love and Safety to all!

Kris "Aves" McNew
Fresno, CA 93728

__________________________________________________
Do You Yahoo!?
Yahoo! Shopping - Thousands of Stores. Millions of Products.
http://shopping.yahoo.com/

That's it!
All that remains is a few gifts to wrap tomorrow, a
mourning count, and I'm done and ready. Although the
sun came out and the birds were singing, I still
needed to finish up three different cookie batches, a
chocolate caramel bar thing, and some spritz cookies.
Joy on the other hand, finished up 20 loaves of lemon
poppy seed bread! But before I could get started, I
had to enjoy the birds a bit.

The usual early morning crowd was here bright and
early. White-Crowned SParrows, Gold-Crowned SParrows,
a few HOuse SParrows, and the lone JUnco scratched
around. They were soon joined by a few HOuse FInch, 4
AMerican GOldfinch and the fat mama squirrel. Then of
course the MOurning DOves began to rain in, and
everyone else took off while they powered up for the
day. (96 today). The dove feed lasted about 45 minutes
today, then things quieted down and returned to
normal.

When I turned away to fill up my coffee, some
excitement broke out across the street. On top of the
resident Crow's tree, the tree they nested in this
year, was a Red-Tailed HAwk! I don't think I have to
tell you how the crows reacted to this intrusion!
Cawing, diving, feather ruffling.....what a great
noise! Their valent efforts paid off, and the hawk
only lasted a couple minutes before he took flight.
Two crows in tow I might add. ;)

I had the pleasure of another visit by the HErmit
THrush today. He popped in the work the flower border
along the fench and stop by for a drink. The SPotted
DOve decided to pay a call in the early afternoon,
along with a young ANna's HUmmer who enjoyed the
French Lavendar that is in bloom. Ruby-Crowned
KInglets and Yellow-Rumped WArblers enjoyed the Lerp
buffet. It is fun to watch them hover to pick the bugs
off the leaves.

That little YRWA that so enjoyed the buttered bread
was back today. On the menu, was Devin's sandwich
remains and some sliced apple. Buttered bread and
cheddar cheese were a big hit with this Butter Butt.
He was even bold enough to come right up onto the
front porch and right up to the door after insect
prey. I got some excellent views, and even a look or
two from this little one. They are too cute!

The residen pair of NOrthern MOckers paid a visit to
see what all the comotion was about, but they don't
stay very long. Not many bug in the garden this time
of year for them, but they like the free water. :)
Boris and Natasha were in rare form today. Just as the
BOSS feeders and the platform feeder would become
filled with HOFI, they would swoop in and send every
one scattering. I think they do it just for laughs at
times. lol

No sign of the little WCSP that has been about. I
wonder if his illness has finally caught up with him?
Perhaps I'll see him tomorrow. The Red-Shafted FLicker
sent the sun down, yelping from the top of the tallest
tree, and sparrows and finches galore at the feeders.

Sorry if this was a little too long but I do tend to
ramble when my brain is only half awake. |O
So now, with  birds counted, cookies baked, presents
almost wrapped and weary eyes, I bid you good night.

From Aves and My Feathered Friends.....
Happy Holidays....One and All! :D

Kris "Aves" McNew
Fresno, CA 93728

=====
Cheers! Kris : )

__________________________________________________
Do You Yahoo!?
Yahoo! Shopping - Thousands of Stores. Millions of Products.
http://shopping.yahoo.com/

Howdy All....

Whew! Am I glad that's over! lol I doubt I could
handle anymore shopping, wrapping, un-wrapping,
baking, eating and general holiday cheer.
The usual suspects showed up for my count period this
last weekend with a couple surprises.
Saturday, the Red-Tailed HAwk showed up on top of the
Crows tree, which made for some excitement to be sure.
A HErmit THrush stopped by for a few minutes and the
SPotted DOve paid a visit in the afternoon.
Saturday, I had a short count period, but it was long
enough to enjoy some great views of a HOuse WRen that
poked around in the French Lavender bush for over 15
minutes. We don't usually see those little guys around
here often, so it was a nice visit.
The little White-Crowned SParrow that has been sick,
was absent and I haven't seen it since. I fear his
condition finally caught up with him. The Goldfinch
finally discovered the thistle feeder, and 9 showed up
on Sunday.
On the road out to my parents house, we saw a
White-Tailed KIte hunting the highway median. We saw
another one on Monday on the way out to Joy's mom's in
Clovis, perched on a tree overlooking the river
bluffs. At her family's place, I was treated to a nice
view of a juv. Cooper's and a Black Phoebe!
Ours was a wonderful and warm holiday spent with
friends and family and I hope that you all had a
similar holiday. But I'm so glad to be getting back to
normal at last.

Count data:
White-Crowned SParrow = 14
Gold-Crowned SParrow = 3
SCrub JAy = 3
HOuse FInch = 34
HOuse SParrow = 31
MOurning DOves = 96
Yellow-Rumped WArbler = 6 (one has decided that table
scraps are great. It is eating apples, bread with
butter, suet bits, and cheddar cheese)
Ruby-Crowned KInglet = 3 (they have been full of
energy all week)
Red-Shafted FLicker = 1
AMerican GOldfinch = 9
Dark-Eyed JUnco = 3
AMerican CRow = 2
NOrthern MOckingbird = 2
ANna's HUmmingbird = 1
HOuse WRen = 1
Red-Tailed HAwk = 1
SPotted DOve = 1
HErmit THrush = 1

My Fox Squirrels are feeling amorous too!

Good Birding All!!!!
Aves
Fresno, CA 93728

__________________________________________________
Do You Yahoo!?
Yahoo! Photos - Share your holiday photos online!
http://photos.yahoo.com/

Evening all....

It is with saddened heart that I post this evening.
For today, a dear friend met her end. In her quest for
life in this urban world, her destiny played out.
This afternoon, I found Mama Squirrel, stiff and cold
in the street, headed for my house.
The scars from last year's amorous mating positively
identified her. This was the same squirrel who took
peanuts from your hand. The same squirrel who feared
no one or anything else in the garden. The same mother
who brought each new generation to share in the peanut
bounty.
As I disposed of her body, I paused and pondered her
place in the urban landscape that surrounds me. Are
those creatures that pass through our lives so freely,
but regularly, anything less than pets, friends, or
family? We witness these dramas of nature almost
daily. It could have been any predator or disease that
took her life, but it was one of us.
Now I can reflect and smiles and hope for the next
special friend to arrive. She will be missed no less
than any special animal companion that shares my life.

Good Birding,
Aves
Fresno, CA 93728



__________________________________________________
Do You Yahoo!?
Yahoo! Photos - Share your holiday photos online!
http://photos.yahoo.com/

Howdy All....

Well, It feels like things are finally getting back to
normal after the holidays. I'm still playing catchup,
but things are almost there. ;)

Here are my totals for the last count period. The
number of species is down, but the number of
individuals is up, especially WCSP and HOFI.

I did have a couple of interesting flyovers on my last
count days. Saturday morning, a beautiful Great Egret
sailed lazily over the yard. Looks like he was on his
way to the city park or the ponding basin down the
street.

That afternoon, all the birds suddenly scattered, and
those that remained froze in place. A fine little
Merlin passed over the garden. He was flying very
slowly, as if looking for something tasty. :O
As soon as he was out of sight, the birds returned to
their normal gluttonly.

Species / High count

Anna's Hummingbird = 1
Northern Flicker = 2
Western Scrub-Jay = 2
American Crow = 2
Ruby-crowned Kinglet = 1
American Robin = 1
Northern Mockingbird = 1
Cedar Waxwing = 24
Mourning Dove = 135 (wonder if they will ever stop
flagging me? LOL)
Yellow-rumped Warbler = 4
Golden-crowned Sparrow = 4
White-crowned Sparrow = 13 (numbers are growing
rapidly)
Dark-eyed Junco = 3
House Finch = 26 (0 with eye infection)
American Goldfinch = 1 (0 with eye infection)(There
are a lot more out there in the neighborhood. I see
large flocks moving around and feeding in the trees,
but not in my yard :(
House Sparrow = 30

Good Birding All!!
Aves
Fresno, CA 93728
(where we are basking in the hazy sunshine and high 50s)

__________________________________________________
Do You Yahoo!?
Yahoo! Photos - Share your holiday photos online!
http://photos.yahoo.com/

Howdy All...

Rain has finally arrived here in CA, and it is very
welcome. The birds sensed the approaching storm just
as much as I did and the feeders were packed for my
count this weekend.

I got home Friday night and filled the feeders to
overflowing. Two BOSS feeders, raised platform with
BOSS and Mixed, low platform with BOSS and mixed, and
as always, scattered mixed seed all over the ground. I
think there was about 5 lbs of BOSS total and 10 lbs
of Mixed seed waiting for the weekend rush. By Sunday
afternoon, the feeders were picked clean! The two BOSS
feeders had abut an inch of seed left in them. The two
platforms had only a scattering of hulls left on them.
The ground looked as if I had never put seed there at
all. WHAT PIGS!!

The sparrows always arrive first thing in the morning.
When the first of the MODOs arrives, the sparrows
begin to give way and return after the madness of the
doves subsides. The HOFI and AMGO are later risers,
and usually arrive just as the doves reach maximum
numbers. This weekend, I had more WCSPs than ever and
I found it hard to keep track of all the LBBs
scratching around.

Here are my count totals for the last count period:

Mourning Doves = 142 (think I'll break the 200 mark?)
White-crowned Sparrow = 22 (highest number yet)
Gold-crowned Sparrow = 5
House Sparrow = 57
House Finch = 32
Dark-eyed Junco "Oregon" = 3
Western Scrub Jay = 2
Yellow-rumped "Audubon's" Warbler = 5
Ruby-crowned Kinglet = 2
Northern "Red-shafted" Flicker = 1
American Goldfinch = 4
American Robn = 2
Rock Dove = 3 (darn)
Northern Mockingbird = 1

The crows were absent this count. I see them as the
retired couple. They travel around and usually stop by
once a week to check on the homestead. LOL
The robins are starting to check on the ripeness of
the Carolina Cherry berries. It won't be long before
the robins and the waxwings will descend on the tree
and eat every berry they find.

Good Birding All!
Aves
Fresno, CA 93728

__________________________________________________
Do You Yahoo!?
Yahoo! Photos - Share your holiday photos online!
http://photos.yahoo.com/

Howdy All...

Friday night I went to the pet supply to stock up.
Purchased $80 worth of various seed, hoping that it
will last the month. I got home and stocked the buffet
with 2lbs cracked corn, 4lbs of BOSS and 20lbs of
mixed seed. The suet was fine and a handful of peanuts
completed the spread. Now all I had to do was wait.
Saturday morning I was up with the sun. At 7:18, there
wasn't a single bird in sight, so I thought I had time
to piddle around. Was I ever wrong! I went to the
bathroom and was preparing to start the coffee when a
dark shape flashed past the window. I ran to the
window and found that the MODOs had started to arrive.
By 7:25, they were coming in so fast, I was hard
pressed to keep track of them. I counted once, twice,
three times for a final total of 174! They were so
thick, I couldn't see the ground between birds. When
they spooked a few minutes later, I jumped back a few
feet from the sound of all those wings exploding into
flight. By 9:00, the main rush of doves was over and
the sparrows and finches returned in force.
I finished off my day with some yard work in the warm
sunshine. Pulling weeds, cleaning flowerbeds and
planting seeds. It felt really good getting out and
getting my hands dirty. But the whole time I was
working, I had the feeling I was being watched. Of
course the MODOs were never far away.

Count Totals:
MODO = 183
WCSP = 18
GCSP = 5
HOFI = 32
HOSP = 32
JUNCO = 4
YRWA = 3
RCKI = 1
AMGO = 1
AMCR = 1
ANHU = 2
EUST = 2 (one checked out my nest box :(
AMRO = 1
WESJ = 2
Fox Squirrels = 3

Sunday, the doves brought a few friends and by 8:20,
there were 183 feeding feverishly! I need someone to
pinch me to prove I'm not dreaming. I also had a male
HOFI with a very bad case of pox on his head. (I'll
post a sketch later)
So I finished my count and decided to spend the day
out in the world birding. Living in the city limits my
birding options, but there are a few good places to
check out. One of these is Woodward Park. A large,
still wild place that is rapidly being surrounded by
the city. It borders the river and has a wide variety
of habitats for the birds and humans to enjoy.
The weather was overcast and chilly when I caught the
bus out to the park. When I arrived, I was greeted by
Red-shafted Flickers, Cedar Waxwings and American
Goldfinch. At the ponds, Ring-billed and Mew Gulls
begged for scraps from the few people brave enough to
face the cold. A odd collection of hybrid ducks and
geese milled about among the Coots and Ruddy Ducks.
There was even a Canada Goose hybrid. A goup of
Double-crested Cormorants lounged on a log, waiting
for some sun. I spotted a Pea Fowl lurking in the
undergrowth across the pond, and a sick American
Goldfinch gave me a great photo op.
I followed the man made stream through the park.
There, I came across a Ruby-crowned Kinglet. I almost
stepped on the poor thing! It was very ill to be
foraging on the ground. It was also gapping, as if it
was hard to breath, but it did fly off when I tried to
reach out and touch it.
I left the stream bed and walked across the park to
the bluffs that overlook the river bottom. This part
of the park has just recently been open, and this was
the first time I have gotten to explor it. Down to the
rivrebottom I went. At the base of the bluffs, A
Red-breasted Nuthatch, a group of Brewer's Blackbirds
with a couple Brown-headed Cowbirds, and some Cedar
Waxwings lounged in some Cottonwood trees. I continued
on my way and a flash of movement caught my eye. I
slowed and began the hunt. In an ancient willow tree,
a pair of Loggerheaded Shrikes were feasting on a vole
they had stuck to one of the branches. One of the
birds flew off at my approach, but the other lingered
long enough for a photo. Then, it too flew off,
scolding me loudly. The other bird returned almost
instantly and snatched their prize and flew off into
the pasture.
A group of Great Egrets stalked the field and
Red-tailed Hawks soared above. The sun came out, and
acted like a spot light on the egrets, making them
really stand out against the brown weed stalks and
green grasses.
A Belted Kingfisher, Black Phoebe, Ruby-crowned
Kinglet, Scrub Jays, Waxwings and an American Kestrel
awaited me along the river. A light chirping made me
turn skyward. Above me, a flock of at least 30 Black
Swifts, swirlled against a backdrop of white clouds
and blue sky. True masters of the air.
Back across the fields and up onto the bluffs I went.
House Finch chirpped from the trees, and Anna's
Hummers defended the small patches of wildflowers that
are already starting to bloom. Yellow-rumped Warblers
flitted about and Norther Mockers fussed at their
neighbors. I walked across an open area, and came
across a lone Mourning Dove. I told him about my
place, so we'll see if he shows up. LOL There, in the
most remote part of the park, there are large brush
piles the city leaves after they prune the park trees.
I was hoping for some sparrows and juncos, but only
got a few White-crowns and a Lincoln's for all my
effort.
The sun hid behind more clouds, and the weather once
again turned cold and grey. I started back across the
park to the entrance. Along the way, I wondered where
all the ground birds were. No sparrows, no juncos, no
robins, nothing that would feed on the ground. Then I
remembered that this park is infested with feral cats.
I counted 4 during my time in the park. Originally,
this place was ment to be a bird sanctuary, but people
drop off cats and other animals here all the time, so
life for the birds is frought with danger. (sigh)
So back to the noise of the city and home for me. When
I arrived, I was greeted by an odd "chirp". I searched
the trees and finally found the source. A male Anna's
Hummer courting his lady love. Every time he reached
the bottom of his display flight, "CHIRP", very
loudly. But she was unimpressed, and went on her merry
way.
A delightful weekend!

Park Totals:
Red-shafted Flicker = 4
American Goldfinch = more than I could count
House Finch = 4
Brewer's Blackbirds = 50
Ring-billed Gulls = lots
Mew Gulls = 4
Double-crested Cormorants = 8
American Crows = 4
Loggerheaded Shrike = 2
Great Egret = 12
Brown-headed Cowbird = 4
Belted Kingfisher = 1
Ruby-crowned Kinglet = 5
Coots = Lots
Yellow-rumped Warbler = 3
White-crowned Sparrow = 9
Lincoln's Sparrow = 1
Western Scrub Jay = 6
Black Swifts = 30+/-
Red-tailed Hawk = 3
American Kestrel = 1
Anna's Hummingbird = 3
Ducks and Geese of all colors (domestic)
Red-breasted Nuthatch = 1
Ruddy Duck = 4 (that I could see)
Peacock = 1
Mourning Doves = 8
Cedar Waxwings = Lots (feeding on mistole berries
mostly)
Northern Mockingbird = 4
Black Phoebe = 1
Feral Cats = 4
Cottontail Rabbit = 1
California Ground Squirrels = Lots
Vole = 1 (dinner for the shrikes)

I took a roll of pictures using my 200 zoom with 2x
teleconverter. Used AGFA 400iso film with an f stop of
4.5 - 8. I will get them back later today, and hope
that some of them came out alright.

Good Birding All!!
Aves
Fresno, CA 93728

__________________________________________________
Do You Yahoo!?
Get email at your own domain with Yahoo! Mail.
http://personal.mail.yahoo.com/

Welcome to leshon...

Feel free to jump right in and share your love of birds and nature
with us, we promise not to bite. ;)

Give us a little introduction, and if you have any questions, please,
give me a buzz.

Welcome aboard!

Kris "Aves" McNew
Fresno, CA 93728

Morning All....

Tonight, I prepare for my first, and I mean first
birding adventure with a group! Our local Audubon club
is heading up to Arrowhead Marsh and Lake Merritt,
located in Oakland, California. We'll be so close to
San Francisco Bay, we'll taste the spary. LOL
I'm getting very excited. It will give me the chance,
to not only meet some local birders, but the a better
chance to learn a thing or two. ;) Now, what to
take???

I got out of the house a little earlier this morning,
and enjoyed the calm of the neighborhood. At first,
there weren't any birds anywhere. But as the minutes
passed, I got to watch the MODOs waking up and doing
their morning excercises. Small goups of them would
rise from their roosting places and race about,
dipping, diving, turning and generally flexing their
muscles. All this action at top speed! Small groups of
HOFI and AMGO bounding across the sky, twittering to
their hearts content. Kinglets and Warblers "chitting"
up a storm, it was a magical morning.

There are more Robins here now than there are all
year. I'm starting to see much larger groups of them.
Mostly, flocks flying over, but here in the
neighborhood too. Seems they are arriving just a
little bit early this year. I usually see peak numbers
in February through April, when the rains are at their
peak.

Have a good Birding day!
Aves
Fresno, CA 93728...where the cloud cover kept things
from freezing last night. :)

=====
Cheers! Kris : )http://hometown.aol.com/akm52464/TLS/home.html

__________________________________________________
Do You Yahoo!?
Get email at your own domain with Yahoo! Mail.
http://personal.mail.yahoo.com/

Howdy All....

I'm back for Arrowhead Marsh and Lake Merritt and it
looks like I have a ton of mail to go through. LOL
It was a wonderful adventure and I have something
special planned for all my pictures.

I did add a new species to my life list, but saddly, I
didn't get a photo of it. Species #301 is the Barrow's
Goldeneye!! :) I'm happy!

I pass on all the gory details later.

Good Birding!
Aves
Fresno, CA 93728

__________________________________________________
Do You Yahoo!?
Yahoo! Auctions - Buy the things you want at great prices.
http://auctions.yahoo.com/