Sometimes goldfinches one by one will drop From low hung branches; little space they stop; But sip, and twitter, and their feathers sleek; Then off at once, as in a wanton freak: Or perhaps, to show their black, and golden wings Pausing upon their yellow flutterings. ~John Keats

John Keats truly captures the goldfinches in the quiet wild. The goldfinches have been gathering in groups to enjoy the seed in the feeders. They are different from the other finches that visit the backyard in that they do not swarm in and out so much as simply gather. They do not seem to exhibit the skittishness of the sparrows. The goldfinches stay on the branches and feeders even as I walk about the yard.

Birds are a constant reminder of the joy and beauty that surround us every day. It was raining today, but you couldn’t tell it from the birds. They were visiting every feeder and constantly singing. Whenever I get discouraged by the human world, I go outside and watch the birds. My mood improves immediately!