Seward, Alaska
Sunrise 8:54 am, sunset 5:32 pm for a total day length of 8 hours and 37 minutes. Tomorrow will be 5 minutes and 15 seconds longer.
Fickle February turned up the thermostat to 35º today and let the burdened clouds vacillate between snow, sn’rain, and rain. More mixed showers are in the forecast until Wednesday. The National Weather Service issued an avalanche warning for the Kenai Mountains and also roofs (!) due to recent heavy snowfall, strong winds, and unstable snow.
This dreary day perked up considerably when I heard the creaking and whistling of at least seven RUSTY BLACKBIRDS at a feeder hotspot on Second and Madison. They rummaged through the soggy snow, striding from one spot to the next, gleaning fallen birdseed while a few others serenaded from hidden perches in the trees. Hopping around with these rock stars were at least three VARIED THRUSHES, glowing like bright round pumpkins.
A very short time later, I found another eight Rusty Blackbirds at a feeder on First Ave. At least 15 in all. Plus, another Varied Thrush and the usual PINE SISKIN and COMMON REDPOLL birdfeeder vacuums, DARK-EYED JUNCOS, RED-BREASTED NUTHATCHES, BLACK-CAPPED and CHESTNUT-BACKED CHICKADEES. Two ROBINS cautiously watched from the alders.
I’m so glad these and all the other birds made it through the cold snap. Now they have to survive the cold winter rain.
Happy Birding!
Carol Griswold
Seward Sporadic Bird Reporter
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