swimming in birds

After looking all spring for a rose-breasted grosbeak, I had only seen one female before today. I spied this male watching from our trees. He couldn't quite build up the courage to fly down to the deck, but got close a few times.

We've gotten about 3" of rain in the last day with more to come. The birds are all soaked.

Finally! He landed! . . . and then flew away again. They're so pretty when they fly. I hope he builds up the nerve to eat something soon.

tufted titmouse gets a peanut snack

The house finches are around by the bunches to fight over the feeders.