Ludington CBC 12/18/2021 and the Winter Finches That Stayed 12/26/2021

  The above photo was taken today in rare December sunlight, in contrast to the shroud of clouds that muted photos during the Ludington Christmas Bird Count a week ago yesterday.  Despite the clouds I was pleased that the White-winged Crossbills that occasionally zipped over my yard since October 23 finally came down to be counted and feed on the spruce cone crop.    

Yeah, now what.

  Also on the count a single Common Redpoll showed up for only its second appearance of the season.

  Today it appeared again..

  Another winter finch that appeared on the count as well as today were Pine Siskins.

    The American Tree Sparrow below also showed up to be counted last Saturday but hasn't been seen since.