Snow and the Black Oak

 Winter has finally arrived! Our first major snowfall of the year arrived Christmas Eve. The second snowfall occurred last night, New Year's Eve.

Our friends in the desert have purple "ornaments" in their tree, we have yellow and red ones.

Lesser Goldfinch

House Finch

 With the arrival of much needed snow, the finches have made our Black Oak tree their haven. Having feeders filled with thistle and sunflower seed helps. Our yard is extra enticing on snowy days.

When we first moved into our home last year, this oak tree was filled with crows. Nothing against crows but I was hoping for a more diverse bird population to fill our trees. A year has gone by and this tree has been filled with lots of birds including migrating warblers and uncommonly seen woodpeckers.

All this activity piques the interest of other birds like this Red-shouldered Hawk.

Northern Flicker preening itself in the magnificent oak

Observing birds is an easy way to reconnect with Nature no matter where you live. Birds have a tough time with natural habitat loss.Hanging up a feeder and providing water this winter for our feathered friends will benefit you just as much as it does the birds.

May your new year be filled with peace, joy, healing, new discoveries and a bit of adventure!

Click on photos to enlarge.
Photos and content by Robin Roberts