Summer Days

Finally, the mountain woman returns.  What a treat to have a nice break and visit with family.

Like most of the country, we are suffering from the so-called "heat dome" that hovers over us.  We've had day after day of near-record high temperatures.  The rain that falls is very spotty and unfortunately we have had very little.  The woods are dry.  Our mountain breezes have temporarily deserted us.  It feels quite strange to look out and see such stillness.  But it does make us appreciate the bird activity even more than usual.

We have been treated this summer to multiple Pileated Woodpecker pairs bringing their fledglings to our feeders.  Most often we see only one, but there was one pair who brought two fledglings to the feeders.  The trees were certainly not still when these two big babies screamed for food faster than the mother could fetch it.  I'm sure she was relieved when they finally learned how to reach the suet for themselves.
(You may want to click on the pictures to enlarge)

The mother gets some food while the siblings wait.

 The trio in a tree

 Even in this miserable weather, our birds give us such enjoyment.  The bird bath is in constant use.

 The little ones always seem to have unruly hair.

We are hoping for some respite but that does not appear likely for at least another ten days.  I know it is far worse for many others so we are grateful that we can stay comfortably inside and watch our birds.


I hope you love birds too.  It is economical.  It saves going to heaven.
Emily Dickinson