April 22, 2010 1:30 pm Sunny 60`backyard

A Chipping Sparrow is a commonplace bird at any park or in the country (or wherever) but in our 30 foot wide yard in the middle of the city it is a real treat. So it was quite a surprise that I found one nibbling seed on the newly grown grass. I have never (as long as I can remember anyway) seen one here. I managed to take some photos of it as well as a picture of a Common Grackle.

Later on in the day, Waterman Ave in East Providence, RI: The first thunder storm of the year struck. Thunder boomed, lightning lit up the dark sky and tore the clouds open and started the pouring rain and hail. Nine Turkey Vultures circled high overhead (no black cats). What an ominous scene. Scary!