FRIENDLY PHOEBE - An Eastern Phoebe hunts insects from a high perch. Phoebes are sparrow-sized flycatchers that have a conspicuous habit of dipping their tails gently while perched. Many unrelated species of birds have a habit of pumping or wagging their tails. Several possible explanations have been offered. A recent study found the rate of tail pumping increased when a predator was nearby. Perhaps sending the message - "I know you are here. I'm healthy and quick and you won't catch me, so don't try!"

ON SCHEDULE - A female Rose-breasted Grosbeak at the birdbath. We usually get our first Hummingbird return and a Grosbeak on the same day. Our FB memories and my POTD archive showed the first Hummer yesterday (2 years ago) - we did not see the Hummingbird today, but seeing a Grosbeak today confirms the amazing clockwork of nature!

WE GOT GOLD - Tiny Goldthread blooms brighten the trail. Goldthread was historically used by Native Americans and colonists as a treatment for mouth sores, thrush, and as an eyewash, earning it the nickname "canker root".