Spring Has Sprung

Even though the temperature here in Puerto Rico is fairly constant all year -- I'm guessing a variation of maybe 20 degrees -- there are seasonal changes. Little signs pop up here and there, indicating the arrival of spring.

Image via Wikipedia

The first thing I noticed was the blossoming of the trees, my attention drawn by the steady bee hum. The entire tree seemed to shimmer with bee activity...and several little yellow birds perched in the midst, periodically nabbing a tasty bee snack. Of course, tree blossoms mean petal drop, and it's impossible to keep the pool free from floaties.

Next, I started hearing a new bird song. It sounded like a 33 rpm recording of an eastern wood-pewee played at 45 rpm. I finally tracked it down to the gray bird I'd thought of as some type of flycatcher. It has been here all along, but it just started its spring song. I looked up the pewee online, and it is a flycatcher. Maybe its song sounds so fast because it's speaking Spanish.

There are two spring things I know of, but have not really experienced myself. The sea turtles are beginning to come ashore and lay eggs. Zoni Beach, where I went snorkeling, has nesting areas roped off for protection. And some kind of large white bird is arriving. I've only caught a glimpse of one, so I can't describe it or say what it might be. It looked like a shore bird like an egret or something. I don't know if they are here to stay or just passing through on their way north.