October is a busy month for birds here in the Atlanta area.
Many of them have begun the long flight to their winter homes and stop by for a brief visit en route. The other day, I looked out in the backyard and was pleased to see my favorite migrator, a Rose-breasted Grosbeak.
This fellow is a youngster and is still losing the brown feathers of his youth. Although he started off as the spittin’ image of his tan-toned Mama, he is now beginning to display the black and white boldness of his Dad and is already sporting the tell-tale rose tinged breast.
Most of the time, he stayed concealed among the Dogwood leaves, busily munching on berries to fuel up for the rest of his journey. Getting a picture of him felt like a game of Peek-a-boo where I was continually on the losing end.
It was fascinating to watch him eat several berries, and then carry one over to a notch in the branch for easier dining.
Every once in awhile, he would head down to the fountain for a quick drink, and then get right back to his feasting.
A female has been tagging along with him, but she has been hesitant to come close when I have been out with my camera. There is such a gentle loveliness about this shy gal.
Once his belly was sufficiently full, the young fellow settled on a branch for a brief rest, and then off he flew for another round of berries.
I hope he stops by on his return flight in April and humors me with a few more photos. By then, this young Grosbeak’s colors and patterns will be breathtaking.
Backyard Bird Nerd 
What a cute little guy! I have only seen the grown ups. Pretty bird!
He has been delightful to watch.
I will miss my grosbeaks in the winter but look forward to their return in the spring. Like to think mine might make a stop st your home. ☺️
Wouldn’t that be fun!
Oh, your birds are wonderful and cheer me up every day. I am going to pick one of your birds to sketch for Oct 8 “Draw a Bird Day,” which I found out about through a WordPress follower (8th of each month).
Your comment made me smile! Can’t wait to see your sketch!
Love your wonderful photo series; our local NPR station did a short piece on the physiological changes that birds endure as the migrate, it was really amazing.
I’ll bet that was interesting. I am always amazed at how much they eat during their layover here in Atlanta.
heeheh He is so cute 💕Lucky you are to have such visitors 😀
He really is a cutie!
Thank you Kathy! It was fun painting something new other than birds and flowers 😀
Wow! I’ve never seen one with a red breast! His red is as bright as the berries!! Love your photos, Kathy! Think I’m going to have to try painting one for tomorrow’s Draw A Bird Day! ❤️😊
Ooooh…can’t wait to see your painting!
You got some great shots here. We feed the birds and try to keep plants that provide food for the wildlife too. I love watching and photographing them.
It is the best kind of entertainment!
He is very handsome! You are lucky to get so many birds visiting your feeders!
For living in the suburbs of Atlanta, I am always happily surprised with how many birds show up. 🙂
Wonderful photos of these beautiful birds!
They usually stick around for a handful of days and then our on their way. I was glad to have the chance to get his picture. 🙂
WOW WOW WOW