@johnbishop Cute! We actually hit 20 degrees today!!! First time above zero in at least 12 days and there was warmth to the sun! March first is the meteorological 1st day of spring...getting closer!! Yay!

Love this, @johnbishop! Great explanation and photo of this clever, enterprising little fella'.

With sub-zero ice and snow, I've emptied a 35 lb bag of bird seed over the past three days. Precious kitty and I have sat entranced watching the multitude of birds at both the hanging and ground feeders. They mound on top of one another at the ground feeders and it only takes about 15 mins once being set out/refilled for the tons of birds to appear. Also keeping busy adding large containers of luke warm water for them and they actually circle around "waiting their turns " for drinks. Had wondered if birds would use snow for water but they seem to appreciate the frequently refillled water containers. The birds leave at sunset so I set out more birdseed for the squirrels.

I was truly alarmed to see a beautiful, well cared for/fed cat sitting in the snow by my backyard fence the other day. By the time I'd gotten dry food and water out to the yard, the cat had left the yard. Experiencing the most dire weather here in over 70 yrs, I thought bacl to earlier winters when I'd make a comfy winter bed with heat lamp for my wonderful Sunshine dog. Did the same for the unknown kitty and so happy to report that "somebody" has found the garage petdoor and is taking advantage of our impromptu pet motel these last few days/nights! By the time I turn on the garage light, the "guest (s)? have left but the food is gone and the comfy spots have been ruffled.

For all reasons, I'm hoping this arctic weather crisis passes quickly.