I did see a few crocuses in bloom yesterday, but today they are covered with snow. This is 'birdfeeder man' doing his good deed for the birdies...and squirrels and deer who will be sure to get their share. (notice the ungloved hands...next he will be complaining about splits in his fingers so he can't wash dishes)

Jim, your bird is a Gila Woodpecker. They usually eluded me by flying away, exactly when I tried to take a photo. Neat birds, though.

Oh I am so sorry, my deepest sympathy. I lost my precious Great Dane to lymphoma. Yes you did the right thing. Even though it's so very hard. Remember the good times.

My "sparrows" turned out to be female red-winged blackbirds. I always thought they were black like the males, but I was wrong.