First Tigers of the Year! By: Michele Babcock-Nice

The weather is fast-warming here in Georgia, with the daffodils already fading and my cherry tree in full bloom already, although it is much less full than usual. When I went outside at lunchtime to enjoy a few rays, I saw my first Tiger Swallowtails of this year, flitting about and getting nectar from the blossoms of the cherry tree and other flowers!

They appeared to be two males, as evidenced by their thick, dark stripes, and they were both somewhat small. Taking my dog to the front yard, I also saw my first Spring Azure (Blue) butterfly flash by so quickly that I could not even get a picture of it.

I also enjoyed watching the many bees on the cherry tree blossoms today, especially as there were virtually none last year. And, I further enjoyed watching a robin gather nesting material and a female blue bird check out one of my birdhouses in the backyard. You know Spring has truly sprung when you see the first butterflies of the year in Georgia, as well as the birds and bees being so busy!