Black Raven. Red Poinsettia

There's a solitary raven that has been hanging out in the trees along the alley behind my neighbor's house. At first, I thought 'crow'. But crows are almost always in groups, and this one has been very solitary (like a raven). And he's also HUGE -- I think bigger than a crow (which also indicates a raven). There are definitely crows in the neighborhood, but you can hear their caws. This bird has been silent.

He was just not having it for me to take a portrait though -- flying away as soon as he saw me, But I like this pic of him flying away -- you can really see his wing structure, and the beautiful wing feathers! And up front (you have to look close) is his beak holding what looks like a seed.



The Christmas poinsettia is still going strong -- I'm a little surprised. Usually, they are pretty tired looking by now. As long as it's here, it's still Christmas!

Plum Tree Blossoms in the Snow

We got a small spring snow today. It had been in the forecast, but I hadn't really thought it would happen. The plums are blooming along the street, so I took a walk.