Rosefolly, fortunately the two Belinda's Dream specimens I've seen locally, in gardens less dry and hot than mine, had no mildew, so I'm hopeful. Daisy, from all the input, including yours, I've decided that Heritage will never grace my garden. I do have an order in for Potter and Moore, a rather obscure small Austin rose, and I'll let you all know how it does. Cass, your valuable advice about Sophie's Perpetual is very much appreciated. It will definitely have an effect on where I plant this rose. I've definitely decided against all the others you mention, except perhaps Mc Clinton's Tea, even though it's not the most beautiful rose in my eyes. Deadheading doesn't bother me, it's something I like to do regularly anyway. Buff, I'm so glad your Carefree Beauty does well for you. It's just a rose I want to try and see how it does for me. Thank you so much for all the new contributions. Ingrid P.S. I've eliminated Mary Rose and ordered Mrs. Dudley Cross instead and Anne Boleyn has been canceled.

They may be local fledglings or they could be migrants. It has always been my impression that the fledglings are extremely active, chasing each other around and investigating everything. It is a short learning curve before they undertake the most difficult journey of their lives, their first fall migration. They must contend with each other and more experienced adults for food resources, because if they are not in perfect condition they have little chance of making the trip to Mexico. It is probably rare that they hurt each other by direct conflict. It is more likely that those that don't measure up in get pushed into more marginal habitats where they are unable to find enough food. Even if they don't die locally they will be ill prepared for the rigors of migration. Then again, I could be wrong.

Thanks as always Kenn. BTW My friends daughter did win a medal in the Bird ID category of the Science Olympiad Competition which was in part thanks to many of your photos I used to quiz her. They only give medals to the first 5 places and there were 79 schools competing in the county wide competition. I must admit though she was a very good and willing student too. Thanks again Cathy

Oh Tom, I just checked yesterday to see how I could attract some Orioles to my farm. Just curious what area of 9b you're in? I'm also 9b between Orlando and Ocala. I would be thrilled to see an Oriole here. I just added another (4th) feeder yesterday in another area of my yard, due to the cold. So many birds congregate these past few cold mornings. Sultry, I've had bluebirds here the past few years and they are so fun to watch. The bluebirds love some water feature for mini-baths and drinking. they flock to my nearest pasture when I overflow the horse water tub. And I've also added a couple bluebird houses this year. They nested in past years inside one of those big fake owl plastic statues attached to my barn roof peak. they actually pecked a hole in the chest of it to make their nest inside. The storms blew off the head so I've got to get a big ladder out and glue it back on before spring.