bird 9

common redpoll
acanthis flammea

this morning was quiet on the bird front.  a flock of chickadees, a white breasted nuthatch, a hairy woodpecker.  wonderful birds to gaze at as you wait for your tea water to boil.  and then this fella arrived.  at a distance, i thought he was a purple finch, but as he came closer, there was no mistaking that red cap.  my tea was put on hold.  i went to grab my camera.  i hadn't seen a common redpoll for at least a decade.  

a bird of the arctic tundra, they venture south in the winter, especially on years when their food supply is scarce up north.  i guess this is one of those years.  they travel in flocks.  why this fella showed up on his own, i'm not sure.  but i will be looking for both he and his friends in the days to come.  mr. redpoll, you made my day.