They're Baack!

 Spring is finally here!  How do I know that?  No, not because March 21st has just past, but, because the Phoebes are back! 






We have lived here almost 7 years and each summer we have a pair of Eastern Phoebes that board with us and raise 2 or 3 clutches of chicks. 

Phoebes are one of the first birds to return in the spring and hearing their "fee-bee" song in mid-March makes me think warmer weather is just around the corner.  They mate for life, are loyal to their nests, and can live up to ten years.  I'm not sure if this is the same pair that returns year after year, but they head straight to the barn like they know where they are going.  They set up house in the rafters above Casey's using moss, mud, and a few horse tail hairs.

Momma sets for two weeks and the chicks are ready to fly two weeks after that.  They grow up so fast!  I love to watch the chicks head pop up out of the nest and see mom and pop relentlessly flying in and out with bugs.  I hope they don't decide to move out now that Owen has moved in!