Jane

I enjoy watching birds in my yard and hope to learn more about them. I enjoy cardinals and finches especially. This year I was pleased to attract rose-breasted grosbeaks to my yard and was able to identify both the males and females. Hurray for me. I have also seen a small raptor enjoying a meal of a small rodent twice in my backyard. Not good enough a birder to be sure but I think it was a sharp shinned hawk. I once saw a female kildeer and her nest. She had picked an open space near a public garden plot I was tending. She clearly demonstrated injured bird behavior to protect her nest. Last year I had an opportunity to go on a birding foray with David Sibley in Denali National Park. He found an arctic warbler for the group. It was thrilling to see him observing and to hear him talk about our find.. Arctic warblers are only found in North America during their migration to their Alaska breeding grounds from Asia.

I also had an opportunity to see the Blue footed booby. It was so exhilarating to see this storied bird and to be that special place. Their peaceful behavior was a wonder because they have no fear of humans. They could actually be a bit of a nuisance if you want to walk where they are!