I’ve been waiting, and watching, and wondering if my favorite migrator, the Rose-breasted Grosbeak, was going to pay a visit this year. Then yesterday morning, I looked out the window and there he was!
I only had a few minutes before I had to leave the house, so I snapped off a few shots with the hopes that he would return later in the day. Thankfully, he did just that.
Whereas the male Grosbeak is bold and striking…
…his female counterpart, who also made an appearance, tends to be more delicate and demure, both in tones and in temperament.
Isn’t she lovely?
Although she kept her distance while I was outside, he seemed rather curious about me and not the least bit shy.
At one point, I tried to see how close he would let me get, but he didn’t seem the least bit concerned by the lady with the giant lens. I guess he decided that the hand that is feeding him must be friend and not foe.
Anyway, I wanted to get this close up of his face so that you could see the cool ring around his eye. It kind of reminded me of a camera.
He has been at the feeders constantly since he arrived, crunching and munching and feasting away with a beak that is built for just such a task.
He is definitely going to be well nourished when he starts the next leg of his journey.
I know he won’t be here long, so I am planning on enjoying every moment of his visit.
And although he arrived later in the season than usual, it was definitely worth the wait!
Backyard Bird Nerd 
How gorgeous!
He is even more stunning in person!
Love the pictures! I had a pair come through last week. They are so pretty.
They have such a sweet nature too.
Wonderful photos! A beautiful pair of birds. I have longed to see this species. It was worth the wait for you and it will be for me too someday. Lovely close up photo!
I hope you do get the chance to meet up with some one day. 🙂
Thank you so much Kathy.
Beautiful photos!! 💗😀
Thank you!
What beautiful captures Kathie, that lens is paying off for you, and see how the smaller depth pf field gives a nicely blurred background further highlighting you subject.
Yes, the blurred background is definitely a nice benefit when taking bird pictures.
Benjamin is going to be ecstatic when he sees these Rose-breasted Grosbeaks on Monday. I have never seen this bird before, he is stunning! May I just tell you that your new lens enables you to capture magnificent details…amazing addition. Thank-you so very much for sharing these marvelous photos.
I hope Benjamin enjoys them! And I am absolutely loving the new lens!
What beauties, and I do love the beak of the Grosbeaks. Thank you Donna, my day is starting out right!
Great pictures of these lovely birds. I was so excited a few years ago the first time they came to my yard. Thank you for sharing these wonderful captures, I have not seen any Grosbeaks as yet this year.
I get excited when they show up too. Pretty sure I squeal every time!
Beautiful photos. Well worth the wait!
Agreed!
Such intelligence in those eyes. Lovely birds and fantastic photos. Well done.
Thank you. They do look intelligent, don’t they!
Just gorgeous. I’ve never seen this type of bird before. Love the head tilt photo.
I only get to see them for a couple of days out of the year when they are passing through during migration. They are truly breathtaking.
They sure are with those colors. That’s a shame they don’t linger, but migration trips to the feeder works too. I am enjoying your bird photos and you’ll be sure to get even more with your new lens.
Putting your newly toned muscles to great use I see, Kathy! 😀
Lovely shots of an absolutely beautiful creature.
My muscles are actually a bit sore! My workout routine must be working!
And I agree, he is a beautiful creature!
How wonderful that Grosbeak is- your shots are awesome!! I saw my first one ever last spring!!
I wish he was a year round resident, but at least he tends to stop by as he is making his journey.
Awesome images, how lucky for you!
They are beautiful! I have had females this year but no males.
They are beautiful! I hope they stay for a while.