For Rent - Inquire Within

This particular nest box is a hotly contested bit of real estate this summer with both tree swallows (seen here) and bluebirds taking tours and trying it on for size.  I am adding a second box to the meadow area where this one sits in the hopes that I will attract either both species OR two nesting pairs of swallows.  Either would be A-okay with me.  In this image, the male swallow is guarding the box while the female swooped around and then landed on the front porch to peek inside.

New in the yard for this spring was a Great Crested Flycatcher - heard but not seen.  In total, I had 30 species either heard or seen in the yard/garden this morning.  The flycatcher is the first of the Neo-tropic migrants to show up this spring.  In anticipation of more long distance migrants I've put out halved oranges, which many of them love.  Meanwhile, at least two catbirds have set up territory in our yard, and were observed taking long baths in the birdbath yesterday late afternoon.  There is a third bird who I believe is probably a male based on the territorial displays from the other pair.  Hopefully his mate will show soon.  See Extra for a simple shot showing the catbirds elegant lines.

Hubs and I went to the local Culinary Institute's restaurant for lunch today and thoroughly enjoyed it.  The students (from the local college's culinary school) do all the cooking and serving under supervision.  The food was beautifully presented and delicious.  We will definitely go back.  They are only open 2 days a week and reservations are in demand.

Rain in the forecast from tomorrow, but I am planning to head to the fairgrounds early in the morning and spend a few hours shooting a horse event.  I just want to get the lay of the land and figure out my best places for shots as I will be doing a couple of weekend events during the next month.  Hubs is headed to the racetrack in south New Jersey this weekend for a practice day with the race car.  Should be a blast for him!

Trying to keep my mind calm and trying not to worry so much.  Not sure how successful I am...

xoxo
Debbi