It was mild in Columbia last evening, with temperatures in the upper fifties. But the dry air and east breeze made it feel more like early October than late March. Adding to this illusion, a hint of wood smoke was in the air and the squeaky sound of a squirrel gnawing on a walnut husk echoed through the yard. Even the call of a white-breasted nuthatch, though heard year-round, was more reminiscent of fall.
There was little to suggest that spring would soon unfold. The trees and shrubs remain leafless and the greening of the lawn is well behind schedule this year. Turkey vultures drifted through the evening sky but the chimney swifts won't appear for several weeks; the only birdsong was provided by our permanent or winter residents.
But the magnolia buds are swelling, daffodils are blooming and the hysterical call of the flicker rings through the neighborhood. April and the verdant season will soon arrive!
