Okay, they're back and in better light. Mystery solved, I'm being visited by a lovely pair of Lazuli Buntings, oh my gosh!! This is a first in my yard since I've lived here. Thanks all for trying to help me. I got a very clear look at these birds today, and saw that the blue extended across the back, and the head was even bluer than I had realized. I thought at first it might be a Western Bluebird, but it wasn't big enough. Such a pretty little bird and so glad to see it at my feeders!!

Yup, that is a Heerman's Gull. BN

black phoebe is mostly found in the south west usa but has expanded north and east so has been seen in most states west of the rockies. if you google eastern Phoebe you will see the eastern version which is similar but not quite as black. the phoebes are mostly insect eaters and are most often found around water, either streams or ponds or lake shores. there have been a few instances of phoebes at feeders and they will eat small seeds if insects are not available.

Goldfinches in the non-breeding season are very drab compared to their summer glory. Sibley Guide: The Annual plumage cycle of a male American Goldfinch Click on "play" to see the slideshow of monthly changes. Claire This post was edited by claire on Fri, Oct 17, 14 at 16:09