Songster

(Orange-Crowned Warbler)

Sing it. Sing it out.
Sing it. Sing it loud.
Sing it. Sing it high.
Sing it. And fly and fly and fly and fly.

While we’ve seen several Orange-crowned Warblers in our neighborhood over the years, they always stood out as unusual, if not rare—a good spot on any day. But this winter, at least half a dozen have become regulars along the streets we walk each morning.

Like clockwork, I begin to hear them distantly as the sun first rises and my ears, if not my eyes, begin to open. Throughout the morning they sing away, and we enjoy their serenades along our walks or while sitting out front on our patio.

Their songs could be easily dismissed, just another trill among House Finches and Cassin’s Kingbirds that abound at this time of year. Yet they are distinct. There’s no memorable melody or sonorous tones, just a blast of rapid notes, pitched high, then slowing in a last second. Yet, if you are listening at all, you hear it. You remember it.

I think Orange-crowns have learned to make the best out of the talent they were given. They’ve learned to sing their song without reservation, with a joyous volume no one can deny. It seems a solid tactic for all of us who first decide to step out from our own shadows.