Hints of Spring

"Readers photograph birds in thawing backyards and parks."

I visited Retzer Nature Center in Waukesha, Wisconsin, to look for cardinals and blue jays. As I walked along the tree line, a northern flicker flew low in front of me, coming in from my right. I had just enough time to raise my camera and capture this beautiful bird with its wing feathers spread in a downward position.

Mike Brickl Dousman, Wisconsin

I was not disappointed sitting in my backyard, Nikon Coolpix P900 in hand. A beautiful female pileated woodpecker flew from tree to tree looking for a good meal. As she finally perched on a wooden fence that had seen better days, I took aim and got the perfect shot. Persistence does pay off!

Lillian Stewart Princeton, West Virginia

The spotted towhee inhabits many areas of western North America. The species tends to prefer forest edges, thickets and shrubby park areas. I took this photo while hiking along a trail near Boulder, Colorado. The towhee is sitting on a wild plum tree, which blooms in the foothills during spring. I was able to catch them both together.