July: Retrospecticus
The stagnant feeling that epitomizes summer birding continues this month, but fear not gentle birder, the end is near. The birds in the field are looking pretty ratty these days, replacing used feathers for that return trip to their true homes, where they spend the majority of their year. The neotropics for many, the southern United States for others, and for those especially hardy souls, no further south than the Canada border. But perhaps it’s still a tad early to consider irruptive finches and raptors, especially as I look back on the hottest month of the year.
So what did July bring here at The Drinking Bird?
News of a new way to look at bird evolution.
Not one, but two editions of Songed Birds, concert season heats up when the birding slows down. And believe me when I say the Bowerbirds are one of the best groups you’ll hear this year.
Oh, I got a seriously kick-ass pair of binoculars.
I mused on birds and Independence Day, and found what faith I have in elected officials somewhat wanting, as birds appear poised to take the brunt of the blow in the Arctic Wildlife Refuge front of the rapidly escalating War on Nature.
While my field birding was slow this month, I did finish strong crossing the state from the deep southeast to the far northwest.
The month’s biggest milestone was the celebration of my first year in the blogosphere, and the hope of many more.
As long as there are birds to see, I’ll continue writing. Onward to August, and fall migration.
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AND you had a good letter published in Birding, for which thanks!
r
@rick – Ah, how could I forget?
Thanks for the inspiration!