There is a band of chickadees, juncos, kinglets and creepers around the yard
today, very vocal and actively foraging. All at once about 30 birds or so
all totally went still in response to an alarm call by a chickadee. 5
seconds later a Coopers hawk flew through just above the shrub layer. The
instant response of the whole mixed group of birds was fascinating, and
clearly illustrated one of the reasons they form these mixed group winter
bands.

Rob Sandelin
Naturalist, Writer, Teacher