Fountain Planter

My daughter bought this pretty little flower cluster called Ageratum to plant in an old fountain she had. The pump was broken and it had cracked over the previous winter and it was too pretty to throw away, so she turned it into a planter. (See image below) I think she had a great idea.

She bought the plants with a color design in mind and had her husband, Gary, move the new planter in front of the house. All the flowers are annuals, so they'll have to be replanted next year, but it gives her the flexibility to be able to change the color scheme each year. She has such a creative mind. I admire her for it.

This is a great way to recycle or better yet, reuse and do her part by keeping things out of the landfill. What a way to go green.

Another Mystery Bird

This bird is a female Red-Winged Blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus), I think. I'm looking for someone to confirm or correct me on this one.

I love how she's gathering most likely nesting material or possibly food; but my guess is on the nesting material. She's a cute little bird whatever she is.

Red-winged Blackbirds run in flocks with other Blackbirds, therefore are abundant in marshes and fields, which is where I photographed this one.

They breed pretty much all over the United States. Each pair produces 2 to 3 clutches a year. They build a new nest for each clutch.

Immature American Robin (I think)

I spotted this immature American Robin while walking in a park in Brooklyn, CT with my daughter, her husband and son in May.

At least I believe it is an American Robin. The only thing that makes me have any doubt is the short tail. If any of you readers know for sure, I'd love it if you either confirm or correct me.

Robins are the most easily recognized birds in the United States because of their distinctive markings. There are no other birds like it. That red breast is hard to miss.

They can be seen on lawns most everywhere in the US. They eat fruit and insects, but their favorite food is earthworms. Robins can be seen in large numbers foraging for worms. Besides lawns, they can be found in forests, woodlands, swamps and in parks.