Birds in the Old Burying Ground - Birds of Beaufort NC

I try to visit the Old Burying Ground on a daily basis, primarily because of the birds. It’s one of few forested places in town, so it attracts a variety of bird species, coming there for shelter, quiet, nesting sites, or feeding.

After years of observing and photographing the resident birds, each encounter continues to offer a momentary relationship with an untamed creature. Sometimes we play games of hide-and-seek. Sometimes I find myself the recipient of a verbal scolding.

Ground Birds of the Old Burying Ground

Here’s the Brown Thrasher, who is usually found thrashing around for food under bushes, where he blends in with dry leaves.

Although he has a fierce yellow glare, he’s really shy and retreating and hides when I get too close.

The Gray Catbird is another bird that stays low in the trees or on the ground. He’s very alert and fidgety.

Often confrontational, he tells me to get lost if I stay in one place too long.

Here’s the American Robin, a very grounded bird who often feeds on the grassy, open spaces in the graveyard.

She’s patient with me, not frightened away easily, showing her natural grace and dignity.

In the Trees of the Old Burying Ground

The Northern Cardinal, the state bird of North Carolina, spends most of its time in the trees, but not at the very tops. Pairs of cardinals stay together all year long, calling back and forth when separated.

Cardinals exude a natural confidence and grace in their movements. Nevertheless, they’re quick to seek cover when they see me coming.

Here’s the European Starling, a distinctly social creature that hangs out in small or large groups in the trees or on utility wires outside the graveyard. It’s unusual to find an individual on its own, whether ground feeding or on a limb.

Here’s the very vocal Northern Mockingbird, who spends a lot of time in the tree branches of the Old Burying Ground.

He’s an upfront sort of guy, seemingly fearless and protective of what’s his. He’s the one you’ll see chasing a crow or dive-bombing a cat.

In the Treetops

Here’s the Blue Jay, a brash and vocal bird, who often raises a ruckus in the presence of a hawk or owl, trying to drive it away.

The Blue Jay is a bold and inquisitive bird, but one who’s determined to keep his distance from me.

Welcome, welcome, little stranger. / Fear no harm and fear no danger; / We are glad to see you here, / For you sing “Sweet Spring is near.”
Louisa May Alcott, To the First Robin

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