Went to Nevada for work last week and had my first experience of Las Vegas. And the Mojave Desert. Of the two, I think I prefer the desert!























Got to watch the Thunderbirds practicing for an airshow




One of the casino hotels had an aquarium inside, so that was a nice escape from the craziness of "the strip."







Last weekend we had some chilly weather in FL. Riverbend was hopping with birds!

Misty morning





Downy Woodpecker



Lots of red-shouldered hawks



Robins



This little blue heron was a great poser. I couldn't decide which shot I liked best.











The mischievous racoons again

Today I was able to attend the release of a rehabilitated sea turtle at the Loggerhead Marine Life Center. I'm usually out of town when these events take place so I was very happy to be there to see "Atwell" return home.

Getting ready to go





The procession down the beach





The final stretch





Home at last





I've also been vising Riverbend when I can. The weather has been pretty weird lately. No polar vortex to worry about, but we have had some unseasonably heavy rains this past week.

Stormy skies


Raccoons







Lots of birds





Attitude



I was planting some flowers in the front yard and disturbed this narrow-mouthed toad. He was grumpy but I put him in a safe spot to sleep for the rest of the day.



I saw a hummingbird one morning, but no use of the feeder that I have seen. Lots of painted buntings still here!

Wishing everyone a very Happy New Year! May 2014 bring you health, happiness, prosperity, and beautiful birds!

We are celebrating the occasion with Painted Buntings.



Click videos to play:











Many people have been asking why my new bird feeder looks like a robot.
I use the Heritage Farms Squirrel-proof feeders because these are the only ones that I have found to be actually squirrel proof. They might not be the cutest feeders, but they do the job!
The reason for the new, more robotic look is that the view of the new feeder is from the side, because it is double sided. The old one only had one perch, so it faced front. The old one is still in use and has lasted well after 5 years in the elements.

Still waiting for hummingbirds!