I saw a few geese over the weekend. Not a huge flock. Just a few geese. Probably stopping by for a quick rest before meeting up with other geese in the departure lounge before they head south.
Probably taking the time to check their maps for their best route. Maybe even picking who gets to fly in the lead position.
That is one of those questions I often wonder about. How do they pick the one who’s going to fly at the head of the V? First one in the air seems a bit random. I mean, you probably want someone who is good at knowing directions. Someone who knows how to find the best buffet on the way down. And probably one who doesn’t mind stopping to ask for directions. Don’t want to lead the flock in the wrong direction.
But that’s a mystery to solve at a later time.
The thing is, they’re getting ready to head south. And they’re not alone. Many other have been coming through as they head south. Some in flocks, some on their own. Most of the hummingbirds left a couple weeks ago. So did many of the song birds.
The year round residents are just preparing the best they can. Chickadees, juncos and nuthatches will all stick around. They don’t mind a little cold weather. So they take their chances here.
Unlike people, birds and even some insects have been able to head south with no problems over the past few years. It seems that this year, people will be able to join them. There might have been a bit of confusion at first, but things are getting worked out.
But I’m not a goose. I don’t have a problem with not going south. I’ll just stick around here. With the chickadees.
