Arriving several weeks ago, this Eastern Towhee appears to have taken up residence with us.  We hear his song and see him every day.  Hopefully he has a lady friend (we haven't seen one yet) and they will nest here.  The Towhee is a larger bird (about 7 1/4 inches)  and although its colors are black, white, and rust, they are vivid.  They scratch on the ground for their food and  also nest on or near the ground.  This makes them vulnerable to preditors.   When the neighbors cats are out prowling at night, the Towhee is in danger!!   Stray cats have become a problem for all our ground and low shrub nesters.