On Monday, May 10th a Franciscan Priest revisited the preserve after just a weeks absence. He spent a good amount of time photographing willing Summer Tanagers in the overflow parking area. (While the tanagers are cooperative, we ask that people let the birds come to them so nests are not disturbed.)

Father Barica wrote a note to our manager Reed:

"I woke up early after a big dinner on Sunday and while I was lying awake, I remembered that one week ago, I was forcing myself to get up with the excitement of finding Summer Tanagers. All it took was that memory and I was up and ready to go, once again."

"This time, there were so many more birds, particularly the flycathers - they were in abundance. And, of course, my friend, Mr. Red, was waiting for me right where I left him. He seems to be ready for posing between 9 and 10 am in those trees. I heard you say that this was his territory. The female came by but is much more shy than her mate."

... "let the birding world know that the Franciscan pastor at St. Barbara Parish (Old Mission Santa Barbara) is a summer tanager fan, an Audubon Society member, and, in the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi, the founder of the Franciscan order, a lover of nature and the created world!"

Peace and blessings,

Fr. Daniel Barica, O.F.M.

(those last letters stand for Order of Friars Minor)

Father Barica sent a several photos he took on Monday, May 3, 2010 of the birds: they are posted below.

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