Yes, this is the bird it appears to be, and yes, this photo was taken today!

This is indeed a Dark-Eyed Junco, one of several enjoying a little spa treatment in my uneven driveway this morning. Old-timers around here call them "snowbirds," so you know what that means. This snowbird will be happy only if their appearance includes sufficient snowfall this winter to make for plenty of happy cross country ski outings.

Along with the juncos, the Black-Capped Chickadees seem to be appearing in greater number as well. I keep hoping for a Carolina among the bunch--fat chance this time of year!--or even a Boreal. We do have a little pine grove for them. Is that boreal enough?

The goldfinches have shed their bright yellow coats for drab winter duds as well, and a post the other day on the wisbird listserv mentioned the presence of the Tundra Swans at the Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge. I'm not quite ready to be a snowbird yet, but the southern movement of northern species, combined with fallen leaves, could make for some fun birding outings in the near future. Wonder if my Northern Shrike friend from last year will return to his post in the LaCrosse River Marsh?