Spring in the backyard

I haven’t seen blue-gray gnatcatchers in the backyard in a long time. This was early April. I was sitting outside enjoying the cool weather and this one came down close and was singing away.


I was pretty excited to see indigo buntings in the backyard. Brett and I were watching tv one Sunday afternoon and I look over and see one on the bird bath. I was able to sneak over to the window and snap the first shot before he flew off. Then I went outside and was able to get the 2nd shot of one up in the tree before they both took off.

The lone turkey has still been visiting and taking naps in the backyard. I wonder if she was scoping out places to nest.

I could see a hawk on the other side of the fairway.

The lizards were showing off for the ladies.

I realized that our wall outside had a lot of these caterpillars. They are tussock moth caterpillars. They are known to eat your plants but we didn’t really notice any damage to the few we had in the back.

One morning I saw one of the caterpillars spinning what looked like a web over his body and I ran out and took the 1st picture. Later that day it was completely covered. I counted 16 of these on the back wall.

A few weeks later I saw a few of these on the windows. I don’t think a lot of the cocoons hatched though.

The gardenia bush was full in early April and I couldn’t stop taking pictures of them. I just wish the pictures captured the smell.

BLUE MONDAY BADGEan image of a red sport car with a lady caricature going at Vroom Vroom high speed

6 thoughts on “Spring in the backyard

  1. Really amazing photos and lovely, too. The photo of the lone turkey certainly makes him look strong and in control. Thank you!

  2. Superb collection!

    I can’t find an Indigo Bunting and you have them in your yard. The Tussock Moth larvae can be damaging but they sure are fascinating to see.

    When I close my eyes I can smell your lovely Gardenia just fine.

  3. Love the lizzard and thanks for sharing our SSPS Logo, much appreciated
    Thank you from your Vroom Vroom Team for sharing your links with us at #262 SSPS Linky. Please check back weekly to see if featured on the blog post or by any co-hosts.

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