The birds have been a bit elusive this winter. I think it’s because it’s been so dry, and even more, so warm. But now that the days are getting longer, we’re beginning to see a few more.

A surprise visitor! When I snapped a couple of photos of this bird, I couldn’t really see the details of its plummage. I assumed it was one of the Coopers hawks that return each year to nest in that particular corner of the neighborhood.  But when I started to process the photos, the beak looked too small and the dark streaks on its chest too big.

I ran it through the Merlin app, which said it was a Merlin falcon! It’s a rare bird to see in Colorado, especially this time of year. I think the unseasonal warmth let it migrate early.