Artistic Attempts

Thank you for the guidance, Mr. Lee J. Ames.

Of Dippers and Robins

My first spring in Colorado has presented me numerous opportunities to witness in person birds' display, procreating, nest building and rearing of their young.  Needless to say, the (on-going) spectacle has been giving me an overwhelming mix of emotions - euphoria, awe and gratitude.

Recently, Pete and I decided last minute to go to Gateway Natural Area on a weekend.  The weather was glorious and as expected, there wasn't any table available.  It proved to be a blessing in disguise because it led us to a picnic spot along the Poudre River where we were able to marvel at the American Dippers feeding their chicks.

Emerging from the water after foraging for food

Diligent parents feeding their very hungry young

Begging for more

Flashing its nictitating membrane (it protects its eyes underwater)

Bobbing away ... up and down and up and down

Meanwhile, the images below are an on-going affair in our very own backyard to my heart's content.

Papa Robin plus ...

 ... Mama Robin

... Equals baby Robins.

How adorable!

Wary of everything and everyone, they viciously guard their brood.

The parents constantly chase away this fellow and other birds that dare come near the nest.  Could this be my wabbit?