A Look Back

Here in the Midwest, the fall season brings many changes. Cooler, more comfortable temperatures arrive delivering crisp, clear, refreshing air. Brilliant golds, burgundies, umbers and reds replace the lush, green leaves of summer. Autumn also brings about a chance to view beautiful birds on their migration south to warmer climates. I always look forward to visiting my favorite birding locations in the fall, as there is usually an abundance of activity. Surprisingly, this autumn season has been especially quiet for bird viewing. That being the case, I took a look back at my photograph archives to see the images I captured last year at this time. Below are several beauties seen in 2009.
~ Identification corrections welcome ~

A striking Cooper's Hawks scans for prey atop a park fence

A most comfortable place to have lunch

A pretty Hermit Thrush framed by brilliant fall foliage

A busy Golden-crowned Kinglet in search of insects

This Eastern Phoebe has its eyes on a swarm of gnats nearby

A VERY berry Northern Cardinal face

A fluffed up White-throated Sparrow also enjoys the plump, ripe seasonal berries

An Orange-crowned Warbler carefully extracts tasty seeds

A White-breasted Nuthatch against a pretty autumn background

Tasty seeds galore for this beautiful White-crowned Sparrow

A lovely Wood Thrush amid damp grass blades

Sweet mush face