Game set match

Well gentlemen, I am officially done birding my yard for 2012 and will end the year with 181 avian species. Never thought I'd Achieve this in one calendar year, and I don't expect to match it again for at least a decade (my next residence will not be in view of big water).

So how does it feel to receive a good ole country shellacking, BOYZ? (actually I remember the feeling well)

Oh yeah, we should start to brainstorm the blog for 2013- what are your thoughts?

First excitement in a while

Was definitley hoping for this to happen, but honestly can tell you I NEVER expected it actually would! I thought they had all moved south of me by now. BAM!

WWCR

Walked out to the car and was greeting by a faint jeep.  A quick scan of the surrounding conifers first reveled a lurking Merlin towards the highway - then a couple of these charmers in the neighbors hemlock.  The first crossbills of any "type" for the Swamp Lair. It's my first new yardbird since mid September and arguably the most overdue (especially with mature Hemlock nearby)....#187 tic.