Common Birds 138 - Mockingbird

Thursday, July 10, Evening

Mockingbirds have always been mysterious to me. I remember feeling alienated seeing them in DC at the start of grad school. At the time, I had no idea what they were, but I knew I’d never seen them before. I still can’t figure out why they’re all over downtown Haverhill but never at my work just a few miles up river.

This evening, my son and I spotted a mockingbird in our parking lot. It alighted on a curb, pulled itself up to its full height, and spread its wings wide, flashing its iconic white patches. Then, it flicked to the base of a tree and spread its wings again. I don’t know why, but it was mesmerizing. And I’m excited to watch for more mockingbirds and try to find out.

And if I don’t find out, I love a good mystery to ponder.