I think this is the first Scarlet Tanager we've seen. It was pouring the other day and Faith called me to the Kitchen window for a look at the bird feeder. There, sticking out vividly among the Chickadees and Grosbeak, was this sopping wet and very red bird. The picture really doesn't do it justice; not enough light and shot through a double paned window.

The feeder has been a busy place lately. When the Sun is out it is empty and neglected, but as soon as the clouds and rain move in (most of May!) the birds flock to it. Once I finish up and install our bird translator I'm sure it will be all,

"Can you believe this? I'm supposed to be nesting by now!"

A bug that's all I ask for, a nice, crispy bug!

"I heard a Robin say the earthworms are up to 99% water. Hey, you wanna worm with that drink?"

Are there any dry seeds on your side?

"My mother told me I'd end up like this."

You think you got it bad, look at red there.

"Hey, Red, what side of the perch did you fall off of?"

Speaking of red...where's the Cardinal?

"Who cares? Rude, just rude. Pushes everyone around, flies off at the slightest noise."

I think he's kind of cute...

"Oh c'mon, he's all crested paranoia. No future there."