Tachycineta bicolor

This iridescent gem is a Tree Swallow. Along with its mate it is frequenting the nest box that has been set up off the deck of the volunteer cabin. No signs of young or actual nest building as of yet--I suspect they may either be nervous about its proximity to us, the humans, or they may be new parents with some feelings of reticence. In any event, they are often perched on or very nearby the deck in the mornings, affording excellent views of their striking plumage. Like all other swallow species of northern California (and most of the U.S.) this bird is migratory and can only be found here in the breeding season.