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February 27, 2006
Sandhill Cranes
Sandhill cranes can be seen in large numbers here in the fields and marshes along the Columbia River this winter. Soon, however, they will be leaving as spring approaches. The honking sounds of a flock of Canada Geese flying overhead is a sound that many people typically associate with the mystery and magic of wild nature. The indescribable bugling, croaking sound of a flock of Sandhill Cranes reverburates even deeper for me. Their passage overhead always causes every activity to stop as we hurry outside to catch a glimpse. Their dancing displays amongst each other are graceful and inspiring. Oh, to be able to leap into the air with so little effort! The most I can accomplish is a gravity bound hopping twirl while waving my outstreched arms. Let me fly, just one time, with you neck outstreched, red headed, black billed following the curve of the evening sky.
Speaking of spring, the Red Breasted Sapsuckers have returned. The satellite television dish on our roof is their favorite drum in the early hours. Hammering stoutly on the metal dish the sapsucker's announces his availabilty to every dog, cat, late sleeping human and potential sapsucker mates in the area. Rufus hummingbirds are due to arrive on March 14-15th. Time to clean the feeders and have them ready for their hungry arrival from their warmer wintering grounds
Posted by bill@birdingguide.com at February 27, 2006 12:13 AM
