Rains bring new birds...

[avwh]

We had our first major winter rain storms the past few days, which has brought in some new birds.

First cedar waxwings (they travel in flocks like no other birds that have visited my yard thus far). Unfortunately, I only had my 70-200 lens on my 40D, with no time to switch before they flew off, and they were on my neighbor's tree behind my yard, so the reach leaves something to be desired):

http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p527424671-4.jpg (http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p527424671-0.jpg)


First western hermit thrush (note whiskers under throat on 2nd shot, and its red-brown tail):

http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p519176760-4.jpg (http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p519176760-0.jpg)


http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p182684032-4.jpg (http://allenh.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p182684032-0.jpg)

[jorj7]

Nice set Allen. Always fun to get new birds.

[Anke]

Nice one, Allen. That thrush is a first for me.

[avwh]

Thanks, George. That makes 19 different species I've ID'd in my yard, in 2 months (since I got my 40D and started paying attention; well, that, and putting up feeders all over the place ;)).

[shannyD]

i had a waxwing in my backyard today.. it was amazing.. i just never thought i would see one since i dont have any berry plants or trees. stunning birds though. and beautiful shots you have of them as well.

[avwh]

Nice one, Allen. That thrush is a first for me.

Thanks, Anke. First thrush of any kind for me, too. Took me awhile to ID it, but I figured it had distinct enough markings I could find it in my guide (as soon as I realized that that was not a sparrow beak).

[avwh]

Thanks for commenting, shanny. They are truly striking birds. Just wish I'd had more reach.

[pknight]

Good shots. If my experience is worth anything, the Waxwings will be back about the same time of day. Keep and eye out.

[avwh]

Thanks, pknight. I will be watching for them. ;)