~Loveland, Colorado, October, 4, 2017

Yesterday, a small flock of White-crowned Sparrows landed in the yard to partake of the “buffet” I have setup. Also, a Mountain Chickadee was spotted at the Sunflower Station. A flock of Eurasian doves arrived Monday and ate everything in sight, it was a feeding frenzy. They decided to leave, with just a few long-term residents staying behind. (Flocking up to head south.)

This morning other visitors arrived, Juncos! They are leaving higher elevations, because of the weather.

Two Hummingbirds are still hanging out at their Hanging Station. I tell them everyday to head south. It has been getting down into the 30’s here, so they need to go! This morning, one was sitting in a big Blue Spruce preening! Just go!

A hawk flew by a window. I think he wanted to partake in a buffet of his choice (a live one). He was too fast and didn’t stay for identification.

Other birds in the yard this week: Scrub Jays, Blue Jays, Steller’s Jay, Mountain Chickadees, Black-capped chickadees, Mourning Doves, Downy Woodpeckers, Red-shafted Flickers, White-breasted Nuthatches, House Finches, House Sparrows, Spotted Towhees, Robins (flocking up), and Western Tanager.

We don’t usually see the Mountain Chickadees and the Stellar’s Jay, which means they are coming down to lower elevations. We are at 5,000 feet.

Howard and I know what these sightings indicate.

oOo – Winter is Coming!

~Happy Birding!

Remember to assist them during the winter, and with their migration south!