When I photographed this immature Eastern Bluebird three days ago, I imagined she had a question for me: “Hey, it’s October. When is it going to cool down?”

Immature Eastern Bluebird at a birdbath, Sebastian County, ArkansasImmature Eastern Bluebird at a birdbath – Canon R7, f7.1, 1/8000, ISO 2500, -0.3 EV, Canon 100-400mm at 400mm, natural light

Why?

Because the temps in October here in Arkansas aren’t usually in the low to mid-90s. Low 80s or upper 70s are more typical.

At the time I photographed the young bluebird, the forecast predicted that temperatures would drop by this coming Monday. I hope they do, for both me and the birds.

The one nice thing has been that mornings are definitely cooler than they were. I’ve enjoyed sitting outside with my coffee while it’s still pitch dark, listening for coyotes and owls.

So, my answer to the question I imagined the bluebird asked me is: Monday, little one, is when it should cool down.

I’m not really wishing away warm temps, just the overly hot ones.

I still want to photograph the butterflies and other insects I’m seeing now. I’m also hoping to catch one last glimpse of a hummingbird at the flowers, or maybe a tanager, cuckoo, or phoebe again before the weather turns cold.

Yes, I know, I don’t want much. But a woman can dream and have hope.

This will be my first fall here, and I admit that I’m looking forward to the autumn birds and wildlife I’ll see.

I am excited—excited enough to do a happy dance. I should have invited this young Eastern Bluebird to join me

Life is good.

Mia

Click here to see more of my Eastern Bluebird photos plus facts and information about this species.