Another good day at this cabin in the woods. Such a beautiful morning with new snow clinging softy to every branch, berry and grass.
Actually quite warm as well. I took myself to the outhouse to do outhouse things. My little long haired dog tagged along making sure ever new animal track had his full attention. Paying attention it what I should have done. Before I could say “get down” he had jumped into my pants, which I was still occupying, leaving a few lumps of snow. Not a problem I guess, just a tad cool. But carry on is what we all did.
Lots of bird coming to the feeder for seed or the log feeders for peanut butter. A few mountain chickadee, black-capped chickadees and the siskins are back! I did hear from Prince George that redpolls are seen there.
On the sunny Sunday past I thought I should start up the big snow blower and blow snow. But I have to tell you, there were so many birds I opted for the shovelling technique. High in tall poplars perched big flocks of pine grosbeaks. I think there may have been some waxwings as well. Lower down in the thick bush a few robins picked about in the saskatoon berries.
Also on scene was the downy and hairy woodpeckers. They are into the peanut butter. Of course they cannot resist poking holes in the plywood that covers this place.
Marjory from Quick tells me she had five steller jays? Not sure if she was happy about that. Heinz from up the hill has a few as well. I do know he is not happy about that.
I spoke to a lady at No Frills yesterday and she tells me the stellers are at her place as well as an eastern blue Jay. It seems as if they are moving west. Beautiful bird!
Today at my feeder I had two purple finch and many juncos. I broke down and bought some smaller seed for the juncos. A friend from Ontario sent a photo of a red cardinal. Now that would be a nice addition.
Lots of evening grosbeaks eating a heap of seed and a nuthatch carefully taking one seed at a time. If for some reason I thought I was finished feeding birds, my old tame raven dropped by telling me in certain raven terms that he was ready for a snack. Next it was the 32-year-old silver pheasant who hummed when he had his egg yolk, pomegranate seeds and crumbled muffin.
The dogs readied themselves in their places for breakfast. Dry food, canned meat and a splash of olive oil. Winter can be hard work for an old lady like me but it is just a unique time of the year.
I hope some of you had a chance to see the W5 segment about Alex Cuba and Sarah. If you weren’t happy before you saw that piece you would smile at the end of it. What a vibrant personality with his dulcet tones sending his positive message to us. Singer songwriter extraordinaire. I am sure you can get one of Alex Cuba’s CD at Mountain Eagle Books or online.
Thanks for telling your stories and bird sightings when I am in town. You could call 250-846-5095 or just email a note to mallory@bulkley.net.