Iconic Sign: Spring is On It’s way

When I was growing up in northern Illinois, seeing an American Robin was considered the first sign of Spring.

Here, in south-central Illinois, it’s not odd to see an occasional Robin throughout the winter months. In fact, yesterday I spotted this lovely:

I know that winter’s wrath has not given up its hold on us, just yet. Tomorrow, it’s supposed to snow, here. But, yesterday it was in the mid 50’s, full sun and only a slight breeze. It felt like Spring!

A few of the birds seemed to think the same thing. This Song Sparrow, a year-round resident, began singing it’s “hey, Babe, how’s it goin’?” tune. It was the first time I’ve heard it since, probably August.

The Eastern Meadowlarks have also beefed up their songs. I saw this one at the top of a tree near the pond.

The songs of all those birds could be considered a “first sign of Spring.” For me, they don’t trump the first Red-winged Blackbirds that arrive. It’s such an iconic image for me; these handsome birds perched on the spent cattails that gently send their feathery seeds into the wind at the slightest breeze.

The very distinctive Trill-tweet sound of these birds tells me that Spring is on its way. Yesterday, I was surrounded by their song while I sat at the pond’s edge. It felt amazing, especially since I haven’t been out much this entire winter.

Here are some images and a video of these handsome birds.

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