when I walk the sammamish river, I’m listening to music or a podcast. Occasionally, I get into a book. I have Youtube Music and for books I have the libby app. Highly recommend this app. While listening, I try to keep a Vigorous pace. At this time in the fall, there is a lot to notice.

The first thing I notice as of October 30th, that the leaves are on their last stages before they fall off. But not all of the color comes from tree leaves. There are Deciduous plants like the reeds in the photo below. Proof positive that fall colors come from a wide range of plant life.

A flock of canada geese have found a home on the sammamish. They cruise up the river in single file. Some stray way ahead. A couple disengaged when I stopped and stared. On my way back I noticed they were feeding under the algae. The algae provides a layer like a carpet where aquatic life thrives.

The downy Woodpecker is a common yet irregular visitor. First you notice the size and shape of this small bird. Compared to a dark-eyed junco the downy is longer, slender, yet more robust, physically stronger it appears. once your attention is drawn to the size and shape difference you look for the distinctive red behind the head. This little guy has repeptitive movements at the feeder. It stabs at the food, backs off, and looks to its upper right. So much so that I could plan the photo based on the repetitive movement. I enjoy the common birds, our regular, they are anything but regular. birds are so unique. uncommon birds bring a special treat.