Gold...

As in Goldenrod and American Goldfinch.  This goldfinch is well into his molt with only a few of his trademark bright yellow feathers remaining. And the goldenrod is quickly going to seed.  All signs that winter is coming.

Interesting side note - this is the only North American finch that undergoes a complete molt twice a year, with distinctly different winter and summer plumage.

Hubs and SIL moved the rest of the 4 cords of firewood today, sadly with no help from yours truly.  I only managed to get a couple of hours of sleep last night so have been pretty useless all day.  

Got a surprise package in the mail from my parents today which had two rare migratory pink flamingos inside!  Stay tuned to this space as I'm certain they will be blipped at some point.  

In other news of the day, monarchs # 47 and 48 emerged today, the last of this year's butterflies.  Number 47 actually emerged overnight so was ready to fly today.  Number 48 didn't emerge until early afternoon and the temps just weren't warm enough for him to fly so I will keep him in his enclosure until the rain ends on Tuesday and release him then.  In the meantime, I'll keep fresh flowers from the garden in the enclosure in case he wants to eat.  Once he's gone, I'll sterilize the container and put it in the basement until next year...

Tonight the rains from Hurricane Delta are due to arrive in our area so tomorrow will be a largely indoor day.  

Be safe and be kind.

xo
Debbi