After missing the Yellow-breasted Chat on my last visit to Oakland Nature Preserve, I returned determined to stalk the bird and photograph him. I think I caught quick glimpses of him, but no photo. It was fun to see all the other birds who hung out in this particular location…

The Gray Catbirds were active. They chased each out in and out of the brush, completing to be the victors of the sumac berries.

A Northern Mockingbird stood watch from the tallest tree branch. If I were a chat, I think I would have avoided this bully-bird too!

I heard the White-eyed Vireos several times before I saw one. He flew in, perching briefly in the open. Then he hopped the sumac berries, grabbed one, and flew off quickly. Yay for the high-speed frame rate on my camera!

After a while, I decided to move on and roam the trails. This House Wren told me that he was glad I did. He reminded me that all birds are not camera shy!

It was a strangely quiet morning. I didn’t even see that many Palm Warblers darting around in the low grasses, which was very unusual. But before I left, this greenie Painted Bunting popped out to say hello. She encouraged me to come back another day!