Below are some photos taken during the 2009-10 blizzards, when backyard birdwatching has been especially fun (even after the power went off). So far I’ve counted 25 different species in a quarter-acre backyard that abuts 100 acres of open space, incuding a stream that is so heavily damaged by stormwater runoff it can no longer support aquatic life.

During the blizzards, up to 100 individuals crowded the area at times, patiently taking turns at a feeder. Sometimes everyone is scared away by things that aren’t obvious to me. The backyard is suddenly still and quiet. After a short wait, a noisy clamor from the tree line breaks the silence and soon there’s a steady influx of birds coming from every direction, the troops are charging back. Read more...