Cold Winter Coming

I know it's probably to early to even start thinking about winter. A couple of months ago, I made an early prediction that it was going to be a cold winter but wanted to wait and observe a couple of things before I made my final proclamation.

Well I've been observing quite a lot lately. First, a really heavy acorn production...a lot heavier then last year. Second, the squirrels are really burying those acorns all over the place, again something they didn't do last year. And third, a really cool summer. I think we only had a couple of days in the 90's and have even had to run the furnace a couple of times in August.

So my finally prediction is for a really cold, long winter....not something I'm looking forward to. Guess I should help the squirrels by gathering acorns to feed them this winter.

By the way, The Farmer's Almanac came out with the same prediction today. They must watch the squirrels also.

Northern Waterthrush - Lifer

About five minutes after yesterday's lifer, I saw this little bird near the feeder area. All I had was a quick glance at what I thought was a female RB Grosbeak. Up popped the camera for two quick (identical) pictures and the bird flew off. Later when I downloaded to the computer did I find out it was not a Grosbeak.

I have to admit that in the almost three years of looking at bird blogs, I have never seen a posting on this bird. It is a Northern Waterthrush...Yard Bird #101 and MN. Lifer #102. This is a good way to start out my next 100 of Yard Birds.

Two days later on Saturday, the little bird was back for some more pictures.