November so far have been gray and cloudy and much of the fall foliage has faded. I was therefore extra happy to see brightly colored birds today. Although I have repeatedly photographed brilliant red cardinals, today was the first day that I got a decent shot of the equally spectacular Eastern Bluebird (Sialia sialis).
I looked at the range map for the Eastern Bluebird and we may have them here all year in Northern Virginia. I guess that I’ll just have to wait and see.
Eastern Bluebird
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved.
Mike Powell 
Nice photo, Mike! I really like these cheery little birds, and wish they stuck around here in the winter, but it is much too cold for them.
I posted a photo of an Eastern Bluebird too—also taken in the fall. It’s a beautiful bird that I don’t see that often. I think we live fairly close to each other, as you have taken several photos around the DC area. Unfortunately, I am on the wrong end of the I-95 Springfield traffic (in Fredericksburg), so I don’t venture north that often anymore.
We are pretty close to each other as the crow flies, but that section of I-95 is one of the most gridlocked pieces of road in the entire area most of the time. What it means, though, is that we are pretty much the same zone for animals, plants, insects, and birds, so almost anything I photograph is “in season” for you too.
These beutiful birds aren’t seen that often around here. I’ve only seen one or two in my lifetime.
The marshland park that I visit a lot is reported to host as many as 200 species of birds (or at least that many have been spotted there). I am amazed each time I visit, because it seems like I see something new.
Again, another great photograph. They stay here in southern Illinois most winters. Of course our recent winters have been mild.
Thanks. I have never paid attention to the cycles of nature here in Virginia, even though I’ve lived here for almost 20 years. I’m excited to see what remains in terms of wildlife.
There should be species that move in, like here it’s certain sparrows, juncos, etc.