Rites of Spring

Many signs of spring have appeared over the last few days. Puddles have formed, the snow crust has crumbled, and a few patches of grass can be seen. Today there was a very special harbinger of the new season: the first sighting of the Silver-Tipped Lesser Corolla. It has been three months since the last sighting, so we were somewhat anxious. Ollie is particularly concerned. Don't worry--STLCs have no fear of dogs and no difficulty defending themselves if provoked.

Much preparation was necessary; note the special Corolla-watching tools deployed. Here you can see what looks like a single eye peeping around the shed door (Silver-Tipped Lessers commonly winter in sheds, so don't tear down any on your property!). Although it was a long and hard winter, with about 1 m of snow accumulating and long periods of sub-zero weather, the STLC seems to have coped very well.




Here is a closer view. Our activities clearly woke the little fellow up and he gave voice to his characteristic warbling. At first there was only a dull metallic clicking, then a more encouraging chuckle, and finally a clear, strong note that I can only liken to purring. Pretty soon he'll emerge and try his wings--will he fly, I wonder?