Their call is slightly louder and harsher than those of either downy or hairy woodpeckers. By looking at my journal, I know the dates of our observations in this habitat over the last twelve years. I can trace tiny events in the great seasonal patterns. Rosebreasted grosbeaks, scarlet tanagers, northern orioles and ruby-throated hummingbirds are winging their way to my yard. Small and myriad happenings in nature match my own sense of spring optimism.
Buds swell, water drips.
Rivers and streams are free of ice except in the most shaded places. From the tops of trees birds sing songs and calls float in the air. In the mornings, clouds glow pink in the blue sky. Almost imperceptibly, the daylight becomes equal to the darkness. Natural signs speak to my instincts.