This has been one of the better fall migrations, in my LI backyard at least. Lots of birds this year that normally don't show up, like Chipping Sparrows, Ruby and Golden-crowned Kinglets, Yellow-rumped Warbler, American Redstart, and Common Yellowthroat.
Major highlights have been:
1. Brown Thrasher
2. Flock of Cedar Waxwings
3. And biggest thrill of all - this adorable little group of Purple Finches has been hanging around for the past week. Seeing (and observing) them for the first time ever, I can see just how distinctive they are from House Finches. They are beautiful birds! When I think of how much time I've spent scanning drab flocks of House Finches hoping for a Purple, not realizing what to even be looking for...
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