Bold

Birds are bold in many ways, but some are distinctly eye-catching, brave, and recognizable. Pennsylvania has welcomed back the boldest of the bunch, and for the first time in 2025, I had the privilege to watch them go about their business.

A Scarlet Tanager buzzed by from atop some oak trees, calling all the while it looked for the hoards of insects the trees support. It’s a bird that is drenched in beauty.

Scarlet Tanager (Piranga olivacea)

Another species, with a different configuration of red and black, was heard calling from the canopy. It didn’t take long to locate the vocalist, who’s name derives from an obvious concentration of red feathers, and an intimidating beak.

Rose-breasted Grosbeak (Pheucticus ludovicianus)

Shortly after, a raspy, pulsed set of notes was heard nearby, echoing from about eye level. Even so, this bird was busy and put my manual focusing skills to the test.

Black-throated Blue Warbler (Setophaga caerulescens)

The birds themselves were bold, but the moment was too. All three were encountered a minute or two apart, in a quiet preserve that I had all to myself. Spring brings with it so many avian gems. I feel lucky to have come across a bit of a treasure trove.

Until next time, thanks for reading.

-Sebastian A. Harris