3-6 May

3 May  no data available

6 May

eBird data:  https://ebird.org/checklist/S136355929

weather:  9:00 am 10C, wind SW 2, 1:30 pm 12 C wind E 10,  cloudy

tide:  11:00 am 1.5m, falling


3 May

Definitely spring, despite intermittent clouds. 


The fields of the Estuary are now brilliant with new growth.


Trees and shrubs are leafing out.  The clump of bitter cherry that I use as a seasonal marker (centre of this photo) is showing green.


The chipping sparrows have returned, incredibly cute and welcome visitors.


Clumps of candy flower bloom along the path.  


As the snowpack on Arrowsmith melts, the river has risen.


The stands of alder and cottonwood along the stream are now leafy and green.

6 May

A mild day but grey.  Again, the path into the Estuary is now becoming lush with wild rose, salmon berry and, alas, himalayan blackberry.



The salmon berry is already forming fruit.


A bitter cherry was in full bloom.



The flicker remains on his nest, keeping an eye out.




Towhees abound.  Somehow their colouring is heightened by the foliage.


The eagles remain on their nest.  I've seen them shifting about and bending down as though they may be feeding young.  It is certainly time for a hatch.

Fringe cups are about to come into bloom.



As I headed for home, there was a very bright golden-crowned sparrow.


There seem to be fewer of them than earlier in the year, but their plumage is brighter.  There are always changes to enjoy in the Estuary, of birds, foliage, tides.  It's a gift.







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