Monday, August 6, 2012


I believe I have mentioned that Eastern Phoebes are a
signature bird on the farm. I have included pictures 
taken during our recent visit, some are from the farm, my 
brother in law's home and the cabin. I also noticed that they 
really complete for the highest perch. I was taking a wooden
scaffold apart a favorite perch, some 8 0r 9 feet tall
as it got shorter the Phoebe continued to choose the 
highest remaining perch until it was sitting on a stub 
maybe a 18 inches high. When that was removed 
I substituted a sawhorse which was also popular. We will
be putting up a post to serve as a perch and holder for
some feeders.  I think all these are Eastern Phoebe's but
I always have trouble telling them from other flycatchers
so if I am wrong please let me know.

"Summer is all a green air—
From the brilliant lawn, sopranos
Through murmuring hedges
Accompanied by some poplars; "

     from                  
                                     Summer Music
                                         Mary Sarton










"Yet I have glimpsed the bright mountain behind the mountain,
Knowledge under the leaves, tasted the bitter berries red,
Drunk water cold and clear from an inexhaustible hidden fountain."

                  from
                                         The Wilderness
                                               Kathleen Raine

6 comments:

Lynn said...

Dropping by to tell you how much I appreciate the quotes you chose as I view the accompanying photographs. Mary Sarton is one of my favorite reads. You have quoted her before so I think you must favor her also. It’s as if these flycatchers are posing for you. I’m not a bird watcher except for casual backyard sightings so your observation about their perching at the highest point is fascinating.

Guy said...

Hi Lynn

Thanks for your comments. I do enjoy Sarton's journals and poems. I really enjoy pairing poems with photos and it is a good excuse to dip into my poetry collections.

All the best.
Guy

Kathie Brown said...

Guy, flycatchers can be so challenging but most of these look like phoebes to me. There were only 2 photos that made me wonder: the second and the 5th but I still think that you are right. I love your pairing of poetry and photos as well and I have learned about so many poets from you!

Guy said...

Hi Kathie

I suspect you are are right. I think identification in the 2nd and 5th photos is hindered by the lack of detail in the photos. I am glad you like the poems I always hope someone might be introduced to a new writer or remember an old favorite.

All the best.
Guy

Roy said...

Great shots of a sweet little bird Guy.

Guy said...

Hi Roy

Thank you very much I do really enjoy seeing them.

Guy