My weekend almost always involves birding or astronomy, but this weekend I had to catch up on shopping and other chores, so I had to settle for any birds I could see while looking for a dress. Okay, it might seem mission impossible, but I long ago learned that birds show up when you least expect them, even in high traffic areas. Since my purse is full to overflowing with absolute essentials (don'task), I always carry a beautiful Nikon 5x15HG monocular. It's about the size of my pinkie, but, oh, what fabulous optics. Crystal clear views all the way to the edge and great eye relief.
With this monocular, I have scanned large shopping centers for good clothing stores. I have looked two stoplights ahead to see street signs. I have checked out hunks ... well, never mind. I have also logged many birds at busy intersections! My traffic light list contains, to name a few: Merlins, Kestrels, Red-Taileds, a Peregrine (downtown Chicago), Swainson's, a Ferruginous (near a vacant lot with prairie dogs) and, of course, many Purple Martins and other swallows.
So, if you see someone in an old Geo a little slow to rush ahead at a stoplight, it might be me. I might have a good bird spotted. Instead of honking and waving with one finger, you might want to ask to look through my little Nikon monocular. Who knows? You might be able to add another bird to your list! (Or maybe a hunk ...)
