Winter Gold

American Goldfinches may be at their drabbest during the winter months, but they're still jewels even at this time of year. I have been seeing much more of the Goldfinches this winter than last--and paying more attention to them-- and sometimes, in the proper light, they simply glow. And when I think about it, there are not that many competitors. The Cardinals occupy the bright red end of the spectrum, of course, and the male Eastern Bluebirds can serve at the other end, assuming the right light and sightline. But everyone else is duller plumage with some color spots. And that means our Goldfinches still come out as a star in the bird constellation. It will be some time (March) before they molt and take on those canary-yellow duds. But I won't be impatient.