Blue Skies/Blue Birds

Today I FINALLY got out to do some hiking and birding. It seems like the last few weekends have been either too cold or too wet or both to get out. I went to three different locations and purposely let it just be an enjoyable outing without any counting or listing taking over as the focus. I did, however, swear that I would get at least one picture of a bird, however common, however bad. As I was thinking about leaving my last location I decided I could settle for one of the Mallards sitting in the lake or even the American Robin I found in a playground. Then, as is almost always the case, I get a satisfying sighting just as I'm ready to go home. Walking back to the parking lot I caught a bit of burbling chirping behind me. There, up in the top of a tree was the source of the sound.

Soon it took off and flew toward me along the edge of the prairie.

It was soon joined by another as they were making an inspection of a nesting box.

My first Eastern Bluebirds of the year! I'm taking this as an official declaration that Spring is here.