Artsy

This is kind of a weird photo, but I like it!

Welcome Back

...to the Townsend's warblers, who are migratory. So pretty!

Young and Spicy

This is an immature spice finch, also known as a nutmeg mannikin, also known as a scaly-breasted munia (why so many names?). Such a cute little bird...

White Crowns

White-crowned sparrows in the fountain...the last photo is an immature bird.

First Bird of 2026

Supposedly, the first bird you see in the new year sets the tone for the year to come. I saw a hummingbird (not this particular one, but one on the feeder--very rainy day today). 

 Key Meanings of a New Year Hummingbird:

Hope & Renewal: Hummingbirds embody the spirit of new beginnings, bringing promise and a fresh start.

• Joy & Resilience: Their quick, energetic flight signifies bouncing back from tough times and finding delight in life.
• Good Fortune: Many cultures, including Native American traditions, view them as lucky messengers of good fortune and positive intent.
• Healing & Love: They can symbolize healing energy, bringing messages of love and bringing peace after difficulty.
• High Vibrations: Their rapid movement is seen as high kinetic energy, suggesting a year of operating at a higher frequency and achieving big dreams. 

I could certainly use some healing and good fortune in the new year!

Happy New Year 2026

 

May the bluebird of happiness bring you all good things in the coming year.

Rump of Yellow

Our migratory friends are starting to pass through...this is a yellow-rumped warbler. Photo 3 shows how it got its name and why birders refer to it as "Butter Butt."

One White One

I have seen this crow a few times before but have never gotten a photo of it--it has just the one white feather. Kinda odd, kinda cool!

How YOU Doin'?

 z

Two of a Kind

 

Poofed Up/Out

This adorable dark-eyed junco was REALLY puffed out...

(Unpuffed-out version here...)

Action!

A Gathering of Redheads

Motion Study

 

New New New!

 

These lovelies are dark-eyed juncos, which we have never had in the backyard before. They have traditionally been migratory, but apparently there is now a population of them who have taken up residence in San Diego county. I believe this to be a mated pair. 

Full Pool

Fifteen birds! A new record...

Blues

So fun to see bluebirds again in the fountain. This is clearly a young bird as its gape is still yellow at the edges. Plenty of gorgeous blue feathers!