[Birdtalk] White-crowned, Ermine

[mjw22 at comcast.net]

Hello All,
   It's been a while since I've posted but with spring migration on its way (or currently underway), the excitement level increases and I figured I should contribute. 

    This morning, beneath my empty birdfeeder in Provo, I saw a bird and asked to myself House Sparrow or Finch?  I wasn't able to answer quickly and continued to watch as I got a cleaner look at a juv. White-crowned Sparrow. Also, the thistle feeder, which has remained mostly full, has attracted a pair of Lesser Goldfinches once more this year.
     
     An evening drive up to Big Springs Park in the South Fork of Provo Canyon yielded little bird life.  We didn't even see the flock of 100+ roosting Wild Turkeys that we'd encountered previously.  At the park, on the hill across from the restrooms, my wife spotted a small, white animal scampering across the snow.  I glanced back in time to see it, complete with it's black-tipped tail.   Based on size, I'm going with Ermine.  
    
      While I was driving down Provo Canyon, my wife spotted a Belted Kingfisher along the river.  Upon our return home, inspired by the earlier White-crowned and a singing Junco next door,I filled the feeders in anticipation for more visitors returning.

Good Birding,
Matt Williams
Provo, UT