Rain without Migrants

This has been the slowest migrant year I can recall since moving to the Hill Country.  With the exception of three new species to the ranch, I have seen and heard very few migrants this spring.  The new species are Bronzed Cowbird, Philadelphia Vireo, and Black Headed Grosbeak.  The Cowbird and Vireo were briefly at the Oasis, but no photo was taken as they were gone before I could turn my camera on and focus.  The Grosbeak came to the hanging feeder and was a female that only remained a few seconds as a White-winded Dove forced it off and was last seen flying away - no photo.

The few migrants we have had are Catbirds, Common Yellowthroats, and Yellow Warblers.  Last year was one of the best ever years with dozens of migrants and often several at the Oasis all drinking and bathing together.

My guess is the rains are providing plenty of easy access sites so our Oasis is just one of many and thus few visitors.  At least that is my best guess and hope.

One interesting observation has been the Cedar Waxwings hanging around the ranch.  I found 12 while doing my Spring Point Counts last week.  And yesterday I found 8 flying just above the ranch house.  Must be plenty of fruit still available for them - Elbow Bush has lots of purple fruiting seeds and perhaps there are some Agarita with fruit, although I would wonder how a Waxwing could feed on this thorny bush.