A few pics from the woods

We’re back from a long weekend in the woods, and I didn’t get a lick of reading in. Honestly, I’m exhausted from this short “vacation,” for a variety of reasons. But there were some beautiful sights along the way.

I saw some birds, too. This is a flycatcher — maybe a phoebe. Actually, after further investigation, I’ve changed my mind… I think this is a red-eyed vireo, a bird we heard singing in the treetops all the while but could never get our eyes on because it’s the color of the leaves. But this one was down low…

It scolded and scolded, and finally I realized it was because I was nearly on top of its nest nestling, which was at the base of a tree.

Vireos nest in trees, so maybe this little one had fallen. In any case, its mother was still caring for it and quite protective.

Earlier in the day, I’d seen this little guy, fallen (I think) from its nest into the middle of the trail. I moved it to an inconspicuous spot on the edge and tried not to think about its chances for survival.

There were cedar waxwings all over, eating wild cherries. They’re such beautiful birds, and so sociable — usually moving in a flock. This one is by itself, and my daughter says the picture makes her feel “wild and free.”

It was exciting to see a wood thrush at close range. Wood thrushes, and hermit thrushes, have the most beautiful bird song of them all.

I was also thrilled to come upon this broad-winged hawk, calling and calling from the top of a dead tree. He’s a rugged fellow — I don’t think I’ve ever seen this kind of hawk before.

I’m thankful to have had these few days to drink in the beautiful weather and the sights. A little perspective is always a good thing.