Spring Warblers!

Spring migrant warblers have begun to arrive in Fearrington Village.  The first species to get here from wintering grounds was the Louisiana Waterthrush, which builds its nest along Bush Creek.  This past week, the Yellow-throated Warblers and Northern Parulas arrived, along with the Common Yellowthroats (pictured above).  Many warbler species travel from as far away as Central America.  These first arrivals may stick around to breed, but others may simply pass through for a day or two, fueling up for the trip further north.
Warblers are not often seen by casual birdwatchers.  The birds are small and often shy, and as insect eaters, they don't usually come to feeders.  Wherever there is good forest habitat, however, especially in April and May, you can find these colorful birds with a little persistence.  Most avid bird watchers learn the songs of migrant warblers, to increase the chances of seeing them. I'll likely see ten to fifteen different species this spring, in the neighborhood alone.  I'm already up to seven.

Today, on my way out the door, I had a special treat. . .a new yard bird.  The Prairie Warbler is a little more comfortable than most warblers in open spaces like yards, so it's not a major surprise.  Still, it's bird number 60 for my yard, and number 103 for Fearrington Village.