This January the Southeastern United States experienced a winter time rarity: snowfall. While snow is a common occurrence in other parts of the country, it happens infrequently here (the last recorded snowfall in this area was in 2022!). When it does snow here it tends to throw our schedules off quite a bit, with many schools and businesses closing down for a few days.

While the snow did throw us for a loop, the birds didn't seem to mind. I noticed a bit of an uptick in activity during the day, which I would attribute to the colder weather. My theory is that this unusual weather had the animals in the area more alert than usual as they figured out how to "adapt" to the cold for a couple of days.

I also noticed quite a bit of variety in the species that were out and about. In addition to the usual suspects (Northern Cardinals, Mockingbirds, and our migratory Kinglets and Vireos), I also spotted a Pine Warbler and a yellow-shafted Northern Flicker! While these two species are native to this area, seeing them out and about in this one particular location was a new experience.

Overall, I'm glad this area got to experience some snowfall this winter. It always amazes me to see how much a city or an environment changes when everything is covered in white. Next time it snows in your area, be sure to take that camera out and get some pictures! I enjoy taking closeup detail shots of ice or looking for bits of snow in unexpected places. Just be sure to watch your step on the ice (I may have slipped once or twice :) )

• Jonathan