I live right at the southern tip of the arboretum/golf course. Got home from work yesterday afternoon, glanced at my feeders, and saw something pretty out of the ordinary.?Grabbed my binoculars?and was very surprised and excited to see a pair of Lazuli Buntings feeding. I'm not positive about this but I *think* that's somewhat unusual right in the heart of Seattle.

I called my dad to tell him about it, and while we were talking I saw a Western Tanager sitting up in a tree (possibly a pair, was hard to see). Another first for my yard. Then, I noticed a couple of Red Crossbills up there, too!

Along with the Red-Breasted Nuthatches, Goldfinches, Siskins, Chickadees, Wilson's Warblers, my resident California Quail, etc. etc., it was a pretty lovely afternoon.

Oh, and it was my birthday yesterday. Lucky day, nice gifts. :)

Kathy Hartman
Seattle, WA