Big Weekend

Last week had so much bird activity, I decided to just post the weekend pictures separate from the week-day. The rains brought all the blooms out, and the butterflies. We also had a first time treat of a young Golden-fronted Woodpecker hanging around the feeder. 

Enjoy my weekend pics.

 A couple of Inca Doves flew into the yard, and found a spot on my circle to sun their wings.

I know it sounds strange to use the phrase in Texas 'between afternoon showers', but that's exactly when it happened!

 Also between showers, two young Cardinals lined up on the branch of the Lady Banks Rose to air out their tail feathers.

 And the Swallowtail Butterfly took the opportunity to visit Jan's zinnias.

He had to try every one.

I was looking down and heard a mighty flapping of wings of all the birds in the yard. I knew that meant a limited number of things, foremost being the Red-shouldered Hawk was in the 'hood.

 I've been hearing this guy all week, but Saturday morning he did something unusual for a woodpecker. I can only credit it to the fact this is a young Golden-fronted, and must not know his woodpecker etiquette. He spent the next few days landing on the platform, grabbing some seed or nuts, and heading out to tuck it in the tree bark.

Most birds were not interested in challenging him at the feeder.

 This time the White-wings were already there, and didn't plan on leaving.

 The woodpecker slowly came up, and started making it uncomfortable for the dove.

 Go'on now! Geee-atta heah!

Git, ah sed! 

Poor peaceful dove, huh Annette?

I stole down to the pond edge hoping to spy some of the Buntings that are hanging in the tall grass down there. Here is a female Painted Bunting.

She also likes to come up to the feeder about 5' off my porch.

And will share a little time with the Titmouse.

But Daddy Bunting doesn't want to share!

 He flew to the Lady Banks Rose and was eyeing the little clay feeder that

the Cardinals favor.

He made a few attempts to intimidate this young female Cardinal, but just ended up foraging among the grass below.

 Had to i.d. this guy, the Gulf Fritillary butterfly checking out our marigolds. Never had even heard that name before.

 Here he's showing his wing underside while going after the Salvia Greggia.

 And had to try the lantana while in the neighborhood.

 And just wouldn't be right not to sample the orange daisies to boot!

We finish with a Black Swallowtail checking out Jan's zinnias. Seemed

everyone was getting in the act this weekend!