It was the red squirrel that first started harvesting the seeds on the cedar tree outside my living room window.
As the seeds ripened further, American Goldfinches started to take interest. Yesterday the air was filled with cast off hulls floating down, accompanied by the sweet little calls of the juvenile finches.
Just don't fall!!! That's the advice seniors are given. And since my tests show that my bone density has declined into the realm of osteoporosis, I'm extra careful. Especially when doing repairs to the roof!
Yep, that's me up there fastening down a torn and bent back metal sheet on the roof. Must have been damaged by last winter's ice. I clipped a safety rope to a belt around my waist and moved with due caution. Another chore ticked off my list!
Keeping me company were dozens of wasps who had mud nests under the ribs of the roofing panels. Occasionally, one would fly over and chummily ask me "How's it going, eh?" I rather enjoyed their friendly interest.
Florence, you are always worth the wait--loved the finch photos & backstory, got a chuckle from the one the sixth one down. Looks like you were caught taking photos! And you made my jaw drop with that roof repair--you never cease to amaze me, you gotta be the most self-sufficient person I know. So impressive! :^)
ReplyDeleteThanks Doug. Those goldfinches are such sweet wee birds. Regarding the roof -- too small a job to hire a roofer. Plus trades people are in short supply with long waits here. There's a bit of work left in this scrawny 76 yr old yet!
DeleteEnjoyed all the finch photos and especially the one where he seemed to be giving you the stink eye. HOWEVER--good grief lady, was shocked to see you two ladders up. Impressive but scary. So glad those wasps were in the mood for conversation and were not saber rattling.
ReplyDeleteI've been a climber since a child, Patti. Don't mind heights at all! (Gibbon genes??) It's being underground that freaks me out. Definitely would not want to be a miner. I think I'm safer on a ladder than on the ground where I'm more careless with my feet. Yes, I was surprised to see all those little mud nests the wasps had made up there. They were the lovely, docile single dwelling variety.
DeleteYou are SO brave to scale a ladder then another.Needs must, I would hope down here a handy man would come and rescue me . Love the birds foraging for a feed, beautiful among the greenery.
ReplyDeleteGotta say, Jean, the slight risk of danger is a bit of a thrill. I had a safety rope tied to my waist and a cell phone in my pocket so really was prepared for the worst. The finches are a treat to watch. And this species does not migrate so I'll have their company all winter too.
DeleteFlorence, my goodness, is there no limit to what you will do? You are incredibly brave.
ReplyDeleteLove the finch photos! We have a cedar tree just outside a window too. I love watching the various birds nibbling on the seeds.
Have a good weekend.❤️
Robin
I agree Robin, it's fascinating to see what the birds find to harvest. Sometimes fine little seeds that we would never have guessed were appealing. Me brave? Sometimes. Didn't use safety harness in my younger days. Did for that roof repair.
DeleteYour photos of the finches harvesting your berries are fabulous. Not sure I would do any roof work- it's always a big risk. You have some funny wasps!
ReplyDeleteHi Judee, thanks for commenting. Just had a peek at your yummy blog site. I think I'm gonna get myself your recommended insta pot. The mud dabber wasps were a delight. Completely docile!
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