I have three types of feeders set out for the birds. Suet feeders and regular seed feeders in the front and back yards. A finch feeder containing thistle seed and bits of sunflower seed. It’s been cold, so the birds have been busy and I am pretty sure that raccoons and/or possums form raiding parties every so often, so I need to refill every couple of days. I see mostly finches and sparrows. Juncos and woodpeckers. And chickadees.

Over the last couple of months, a single chickadee has shown up when I approach the backyard feeder. It roosts on a nearby branch, calling all the while. As soon as I finish filling, it grabs a seed. Before long, more chickadees show up.

Today, I checked the front yard feeder first. Before long, I heard that distinctive call. No way of knowing if it’s the same chickadee. I filled that feeder, then headed to the back yard, where I was once again greeted. Yup, that feeder was empty, too.

I really do believe the little suckers are on the lookout for me.