In a signal for a changing of the guard, I spotted the first Swamp Sparrow so far this fall at my home on Simerly Creek Road, Hampton, around 7:50 a.m. this morning (Oct. 7) before leaving for work. The Swamp Sparrow was hanging out with some Song Sparrows in the cattails near the pond. Also, last night, still had two Ruby-throated Hummingbirds coming to feeders, and the blooming Pineapple Sage has made it through the past two cool nights. Bryan Stevens, Hampton, TN