Birding Journal Observations - January / February 2017

Cedar Waxwings in silhouette 2/28/2017

The winter of 2017 will likely be remembered as the warmest in recent memory, if not a record year for warmest temperatures. Another observation is that this winter was not as wet as the past three, especially since the trees of the forest began putting on leaves in February, which serves to tap into the groundwater. Early flowers in bloom include azalea, yellow jasmine, dogwood and many more - making March 1 seem more like the middle of Spring. The very unusual weather should make for eventful birding this spring.

With the lack of cold weather I did not record my first goldfinch until February 20, which was after spotting the return of cedar waxwings on February 15!? Other birding journal observations for Jan / Feb '17 include yellow-bellied sapsucker, cardinal, Carolina wren, tufted titmouse, bluebird, chipping sparrow, downy woodpecker, Carolina chickadee, mockingbird, red-bellied woodpecker, dove, white-breasted nuthatch, osprey, Canada goose, wood thrush, blue jay, wood duck and red-tailed hawk.

To view past Birding Journal Observations from January / February click 2016 - 2015- 2014 - 2013 - 2012 - 2011 - 2010 - 2009 

To view the most recent Birding Journal Observations click on January / February 2017