The last few days there have been several waves of birds moving through the
trees. Unlike the spring migration, where the energy is loud and birds
obvious, the fall migration is whispers and shadows. A dozen or so cedar
waxwings move into the Red osier dogwood and clean out the remaining berries
in short order. But there is no noise at all, no squabbling no fighting for
position. I lay on the ground and watch the tops of the Alders as
yellow-rumped warblers weave in and out, again silent with barely a twitter
to mark their passing.



The early morning stillness seems like nature is holding her breath in
anticipation of some event that I can not quite see.



Finally a Steller's jay starts a ruckus and several squirrels alarm no doubt
announcing the hiding place of an owl or hawk. It is a relief to hear their
voices, to be reassured, that yes, we are still here and we will stay as the
others quietly pass.



Rob Sandelin

Snohomish, WA