As spring approaches, we, along with much of the wildlife, look forward to its changes: fresh green leaves, blooming flowers, fruit tree blossoms, and more. The landscape takes on a warmer glow, and Great Meadows Wildlife Refuge is no exception.

We’re watching for the return of birds that migrated south last fall in search of warmer climates and convenient food sources. Among those we eagerly await are Baltimore Orioles, catbirds (with their big personalities), flycatchers, water birds, and swallows, to name just a few. Other birds, like bluebirds, stay with us through the winter.

We hung a nectar feeder on our deck in anticipation of hummingbirds, and just a few days later they arrived, delighting us with their aerial acrobatics. The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is the only hummer that comes to this part of the U.S. 

Along with the lovely colors of spring and the arrival of migratory birds come the blossoms of rhododendrons and the renewed activity of animals—muskrats going about their business, and new families appearing, including swans and their cygnets.

Enjoy the beauty and promise of spring!

All photos by Dave Witherbee