What Mountain Chickadees do on the Christmas bird count...

As new birders, it was exciting to take part in the annual Christmas bird count in Estes Park this year.  We didn't have a lot of time for the project but dutifully took the Endovalley area of RMNP and walked along the road from the Alluvial Fan to the picnic area at the base of Old Fall River Road.  This stretch of road is one of our favorites because it borders a large meadow and is lined with willow bushes and aspen trees -- perfect habitat for birds.  In winter, though, it is pretty sparse.  When we reached the picnic area we were excited to see and count 4 Mountain Chickadees.  Then, it looked like they were following us so we stopped to make sure we counted correctly.  Well, that is when the 4 ambushed us!  First they flocked at our feet, then at a nearby rock, then on our heads, hands and cameras!  What a trip!  One pecked at Rachel's un-gloved hand!  We're not sure if they were "friendly," "hungry," or "lonely," but they sure made sure they were counted!