The East

In my world, the high plains have now surrendered to tall trees. Eastern Kingbirds have replaced Western Kingbirds. And I’m seeing clouds and rain (lots of it) for the first time in nearly three months. I’ll enter Michigan today to see my family. Then home to Vermont next week to conclude a road trip that began March 7. I have nothing profound to offer at this point. Some folks have asked for a photo of me on the road (instead of my truck). So here’s my new plumage (a lousy self-portrait after a shave), inspired mostly by orioles, like that adult male Hooded Oriole on an Ocotillo (below) and all those first-year male orioles with goatees (check your field guide) I’ve seen throughout the Southwest. I’ve thrown in a Black-chinned Sparrow from Chiricahua National Monument for good measure. Next Vermont stop: Warbler Weekend at Highland Lodge!