Bird Bath Bonanza

I can confidently say that our backyard bird bath is the coolest spot in town! At least the birds that visit us must think so. We have seen quite a variety of birds stopping by to simply take a sip of water or indulge in a full-blown bath. Here's a little sampler of what we've been seeing when we look out the window...

(Keep in mind that the photos are a little darker than usual because we had our sliding glass door tinted to help cut the glare and keep us cooler during these sweltering triple-digit Northern California summers.)

Our favorite backyard visitor has got to be the pair of Hooded Orioles that take their regular baths in the evening...

The male is one of the most striking birds I think I've ever seen (at least in my little backyard anyway.)

(I know I've posted about him before, but he brings us so much joy that I'll find any excuse to mention him!)

The Lazuli Bunting sure is noticeable when he flies in! His beautiful turquoise head stands out among the sparrows...

We've always had a regular pair of Eurasian Collared Doves, but lately these Mourning Doves have been stopping by to see what all the fuss is about...

And finally, this last bird has to be the most incredible backyard bird sighting for us. A White-breasted Nuthatch! We've seen Red-breasted ones up in the mountains at Lassen, but to look out and see a little nuthatch in our bird bath was a real surprise...

I have been taking some video of the birds we spot in the bath, and as soon as I put it all together in my new editing program, I'll post these cute little guys in motion.

Have a wonderful week!