Down Nuthatch

Nuthatches can most often be found heading directly down tree trunks and branches, head first.  They also move very quickly which can make them difficult to photograph.  I got lucky here and this was the only shot in the burst that was in focus.  The White-breasted Nuthatches are our most common species of nuthatch and can be seen in our garden pretty much any day of the year, regardless of weather.  During the fall and winter months, we sometimes get the Red-breasted Nuthatches although it has been several years since I've seen one in our garden.

It is heavily overcast today which makes it nice for photographing birds, but also colder which makes it less pleasant to be out.  Trade offs.  Definitely no bees around today.

Several people asked about our egg shortage so I thought I would elaborate a bit on it.  We are currently experiencing a large outbreak of avian influenza which has impacted many large commercial chicken farms.  There is no cure or vaccination to protect birds agains the virus and when one in a flock is infected, the entire flock will usually be euthanized as it is extremely contagious.  It is not being reported much in small "backyard" flocks and my thinking is that the conditions are far less crowded and there is less opportunity to bring the virus in on shoes.  Sadly, the virus has also affected raptors and waterfowl too.  Most of the avian rehabilitation facilities are having to refuse adult geese, swans and ducks for rehab for fear of spreading the virus.  And all raptors have to be handled with full hazmat gear and extra precautions until they have passed the 48 hour intake period.  This is the second time in several years that N. America has had a major outbreak.  

Tomorrow will be my 5,000th blip - good grief!  

xo
Debbi