May 3, 2021

This morning I heard the first ovenbird of the year calling as soon as I stepped outside. It’s been a cool spring, probably closer to historical norms than we’re used to, so it also feels slow. But the usual progression of wildflowers and greening is underway, and Britt also discovered a trout lily patch down by the brook, which I believe is the first time we’ve ever noticed it. This morning she also spotted what could be rhododendron near our well.

Over the weekend I inventoried Paradise Park Rd. and Pump Station Road for ash trees, and heard black-throated green warblers, black-and-white warblers, and saw a big flock of yellow-rumped warblers. At the moment I can heard the omnipresent Louisiana waterthrush, and am watching a pair of chickadees zip around the house.