I’ve been an active backyard/neighborhood birder since 2024. Over the past couple of summers, I’ve often heard the Black-headed Grosbeak’s song but could never catch a close-up view of this striking bird. This summer was different.

I received a bird feeder camera for my birthday. It’s so cool to be able to check my phone to see who’s stopped by. One day, I noticed a Black-headed Grosbeak had visited. I hurried out to the feeder and waited, and this time I finally got a beautiful close-up photo.

But it gets even better. A few days later, a flock of Evening Grosbeaks joined in at the feeder. What an incredible sight. It is one of the most memorable birding days I’ve had in my garden.