Sapphire Sentinel
This morning, I filled the bird feeders, then Charlie and I settled outside, waiting for the birds to arrive—fill them, and they will come. As expected, the usual suspects fluttered into view, but I also heard a pileated woodpecker and a yellow-billed cuckoo nearby. The cuckoo’s call seemed to be coming from just beyond the east fence. I considered getting up to take a look, but Charlie lay motionless at my feet, content in his quiet vigil. If I moved, the other birds would scatter, and Charlie would stir to life, breaking the peaceful moment.
Here’s a blue jay (Cyanocitta cristata) that made an appearance this morning.