Spring cleaning is for the birds

by Beth Shepherd
( March 5th, 2013 )

Spring has hatched. Tulips are poking their colorful heads out of the ground, trees are covered in flowering buds, and birds are scouting for locations to build a nest.

Last spring, one of our two birdhouses was “rented” for the first time when a pair of Chickadees moved in. Weeks passed as we watched mama and papa fly back and forth, carrying twigs and moss to their new home. It was very exciting when we finally started to hear the peeps of baby chicks until, one day, there they were: the three amigos.

Three Chickadee amigos

Just this past weekend, we decided it was time for a bit of birdie spring cleaning, so we opened up the nesting box, to clear out last year’s “bedding” and make way for a new tenants.

Spider web on birdhouse

In one box (where there were never any chicks), we found the beginnings of a nest.

Chickadee nest small

But in the box where the baby chicks were hatched, we found a glorious nest filled with an impressive collection of twigs, leaves, moss, and…

Chickadee nest large 2

...even a tiny Chickadee feather.

Chickadee feather in nest

Here’s to spring 2013. May it bring color to our eyes, music to our ears and laughter to our hearts.

Chickadee fledgling side view

5 comments
 
Comments
1.
On March 5th, 2013 at 8:48 pm, Sarah Shaw said:

I’m so anxious for spring to come this year. Here in Michigan, we still have a complete cover of snow and none of the snowdrops are even peaking up yet. Can’t wait till I see tulips sprouting like you are seeing. Thanks for providing some hope!

2.
On March 5th, 2013 at 8:52 pm, Beth Shepherd said:

We were completely snow-free in Seattle this year. But as a kid, in upstate NY, I remember those long drawn-out days waiting for the first crocus and snowdrops! I love the spring…the colors, the light, everything comes alive.

3.
On March 7th, 2013 at 11:52 am, Debby Lee Jagerman said:

Once again, I always love your bird photos!!

4.
On March 7th, 2013 at 1:06 pm, Beth Shepherd said:

:) Thanks, Debby. And I sure love those birdies!

5.
On March 24th, 2013 at 11:20 am, Cleaners London said:

May really spring 2013 bring warm emotions, music for our hearts and souls and laughter to everyone. Birds will do just a little part of that but helping nature is a great thing.
The images of the nest are so good!
Regards,
Scotty from Go Cleaners

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