I stumbled across this Goldfinch nest alongside a well-used recreational trail after flushing the brooding hen while out hiking a few weeks ago. The three chicks (the fourth egg was undersized and did not hatch) were about twelve days old and covered in prickly feather sheaths. The mother was nearby, chirping agitatedly, so I kept my visit brief. This was my second time checking up on the nest since its discovery, and I intend it to be the last: the nest is too obscure to scope it from a distance, and I’ve no desire to encourage predation by leaving my scent in the vicinity.

As summer grows old, the Waxwings suddenly appear after a very quiet season to take advantage of the fruit crops. I scoped a few as I returned along the trail.

We had a bit of rain this afternoon, and afterwards a pair of Mourning Doves sat on the fence below my balcony and preened their damp feathers. I’ll never grow tired of sketching these birds — their chunky bodies and ruffled feather textures are always great fun.