After yesterday’s encounter with the Great Egret, I vowed to carry my camera every jaunt. Here are a few shots from this morning, when mosquitos seem to outnumber birds.
One of today’s objectives was to relearn how to blog and handle photos on my iPad in preparation for traveling without the laptop. The last time was from Spain in 2021. We’re planning to head back in six weeks.
A week and a half ago, we were walking on the river while dozens of skaters came and went as we watched. A few days later, things thawed and now the ducks are back, enjoying some early spring-like weather. Sunday, I came upon this couple tucked into the back just upstream from the house.
A week earlier, this couple was foraging downtown in the main Winooski River.
Mergansers are here – not sure where they retreat to during earlier “below zero” weather. This pair of Hoodies are hanging out – I see them nearly every day.
And we don’t forget the faithful few who hang in here all winter, singing every chance they get. I hear cardinals, titmice, nuthatches, crows, and now and then, a raven on most of our walks.
We’ve had a warm fall, as witnessed by the number of ticks on Ginger and the number of birds hanging around. Most migrating birds have left but I still hear a Carolina Wren every morning. Several days ago, I was on an early walk with the dog and saw a bird upstream, and returning a bit later with my camera, found this pretty male Hooded Merganser, hiding amongst the branches of a fallen tree. I suspect he’s headed out.
Today, I saw this Great Blue Heron right out back of the house. He was wary and flushed right after a few shots.
Later, on another dog walk, three Common Mergansers were hanging out just upstream from the house. Access because of brush was challenging but here they are.
It’s nice to use binoculars and the camera without gloves but I’m ready for some change. Snow tires are going on tomorrow. Stay tuned.
Another grey morning, just below freezing, and Ginger and I are on an exercise/birding outing. Just minutes into the walk, I heard a splash below me and then saw this wonderful Wood Duck easing down the river.
He hopped up on a limb, just about out of range of my camera, and posed.
It’s nice to get out and walk every day but even better when you have birds to lighten up your mood. This guy did the trick.
As the snow slowly recedes, it’s fun to recall the birds who rode out the last big storm. Mourning Doves are here every day regardless of weather.
We have had many more American Tree Sparrow than we normally do.
This, I believe, is a Song Sparrow feeding in the back yard. They now are singing – last week they were thinking more about food.
Northern Cardinals are always handsome, but this guy was spectacular in the new snow.
Lastly, my birding companion loves to romp in new powder – last time for her this winter.
