We are a few days into April but Old Man Winter has been reluctant to retreat and let Spring take over.  There are a few signs that will tell you that Spring is just around the corner.  Sure, you can place your trust on whether the ground hog sees his shadow or not (and be mostly disappointed) or you can throw all caution to the wind and pay attention to the birds.  A sure sign that Spring is near is what birds you see as well as the ones you no longer see.

Birds that are very active in the winter include Black-capped chickadees, Tufted Titmice, Dark eyed Juncos, Downy woodpeckers, Nuthatches and Cardinals to name a few.  These are hardy birds that have adapted to the harsh conditions of winter.  If you enjoy birdwatching, you can easily attract these birds to your home by setting out bird feeders filled with seed, peanuts or suet around your house.  This added food source will help to provide extra protein for them for those cold winter nights.

As warmer weather approaches, Dark-eyed Juncos begin to move northward, preferring to stay in the colder climates.  Newer species of birds begin to appear that are surely tell-tale signs of Spring.  Be on the lookout for Red-wing Blackbirds, Grackles, Mockingbirds, Phoebes, Hummingbirds and Warblers.  Below are some photos of birds that are very common during the winter season.

Dark-eyed Junco

Black-capped Chickadee

Male Cardinal

Tufted Titmouse

Female Cardinal

White-throated Sparrow

White-breasted Nuthatch