Ceanothus azureus ‘Concha’

I was actually surprised when I looked up the planting date on this shrub; it’s only been in the ground for 2.5 years — it seems longer. Looking at pictures of mature specimens, I’m excited for the future. But now I’m wondering why we went with a cultivar, not a local Ceanothus. Perhaps it’s all that was available at the nursery?

Sitta canadensis

The bird bath camera continues to bring us surprises. While it’s a little tedious scrolling through the many, many house finch captures, it’s worth it when we see a new arrival. The red-breasted nuthatch is another winter visitor to our region. Like other nuthatches, these move quickly over trunks and branches probing for food in crevices and under flakes of bark. They creep up, down, and sideways without regard for which way is up. Such fun to see this one at the bath.

Catharus guttatus

Seen on the wildlife camera, a new-to-us visitor enjoying a drink and a splash. We are in the winter range of the Hermit Thrush, and very happy to welcome this one to our garden, as they rarely visit backyards. I haven’t heard its lovely, melancholy song, but I’m keeping my ears open.