Grosbeaks Galore

Another picture heavy thread... But I have had a heck of a weak in birding. First off, I discovered Cornell University has a live web cam of a Red-Tailed Hawk nest. Makes for getting things done around the house difficult. ( http://cams.allaboutbirds.org/channel/16/Red-tailed_Hawks/ )

Secondly, I have about five to eight Rose-Breasted Grosbeaks. Yes, I said five to eight! I was excited to see two at first, but as I was cooking my traditional big Sunday breakfast. My platform feeders were over taken by these beauties. I have at least two females, and I keep loosing count of the males. But after having seven on the feeders at once, I somewhat narrowed the numbers down.  Here are a few pictures....

Female Rose-Breasted Grosbeak.

Male Rose-Breasted Grosbeak.

The amazing thing about these birds is how long they have been here. I first saw them on Tuesday of this past week. So, they have been here for at least five days. I am not sure how long they will stick around. As you may or may not know, these birds are not native to MS. They spend winters in South America and summers in the Northern US and Canada. I am very thankful though that these have decided to make a pit stop at my place on their magnificent journey. 

Also, I have had at least two male Indigo Buntings. Last year, I only saw one Bunting on one day. So, it was cool to see multiples for a few days. Below are some pics.

Also, I did not realize that Ol' Red (my HUGE fox squirrel) could climb the Shepard's staff. Apparently he can.

More to follow.... Especially if the Grosbeaks stick around for a few more days.