It is so exciting to see (and hear) the different species of birds at each feeder. The Sapsucker Woods feeder lets me see birds such as Red-Winged Blackbirds and Baltimore Orioles that I remember from my childhood growing up in the Midwest. In the warmer months, the West Texas feeders feature a myriad of iridescent, magical hummingbirds. My favorite feeders to check each day though are the Panama Fruit Feeders. The spectacular colors of the Rufous Motmot or the Tanager species’ kaleidoscope of colors never cease to amaze me.
I enjoy getting rare glimpses of crafty squirrels, or caretakers replenishing seeds, suet, and fruit. Last month the Ontario feeder was decorated with a cute snowman and Christmas tree. It is also interesting to observe weather changes at the feeders: precipitation in the rainforest, autumn leaves flashing and floating down, thick snowflakes falling while Canadian Geese honk on the lake.
I highly recommend this prayer of gratitude for, and with, the birds and have included some more grateful living resources for you below. “Gratitude bestows reverence, allowing us to encounter everyday epiphanies, those transcendent moments of awe that change forever how we experience life and the world.” -John Milton- Happy New Year!
Cornell Live Bird Cams – view here
A Network for Grateful Living – founded by Brother David (resources and practices for grateful living) – click here
Video – A Grateful Day with Brother David Steindl-Rast (inspiring message / beautiful footage)