GRACKLES ARE BACK - The Common Grackles have returned to the feeders in the yard. The Grackles are large, boisterous and come in a crowd - which causes commotion at the feeders. But, it is not their fault, and doesn't have to detract from their iridescent splendor.

BEAVER POND REFREEZE - After a brief warm stretch with some open water on the beaver pond - it is ice-covered again. Looking forward to seeing ducks instead of ice.

ONLY THE BEST - We feed our birds well - a price I am willing to pay for using the birds as frequent POTD subjects - and we mail ordered expensive mealworms to attract Bluebirds. We have found that most of the birds visiting the feeders prefer the mealworms - as this White-breasted Nuthatch makes a feeder exit with a mealworm meal. (we did get Bluebirds ;-)