As it seems that it is always raining on my days off, I haven't been able to get out as much as I would like to have. The warmer than usual weather seems to be holding a lot of the birds up north.
However, I have been enjoying a nice show of resident raptors.
While having a bad day recently, I went out to my car to get something and looked up to find this beautiful immature Red-shouldered Hawk perched right above my head in a maple tree. Made my day a very good day!
At East Fork, I have been keeping an eye on the resident Bald Eagle Pair there. I have seen them mate and engage in courtship, so I feel there is a good chance of them attempting to breed at this location this year. Below is a recent shot of the pair from the car.
I have seen at least one immature Bald Eagle also hanging around. A sign that they were successful in the past, as the adult male would have chased it out of their territory otherwise.
With all the rain and clouds recently, it has been perfect weather for seeing Barred Owls in daylight. They often hunt all day on really cloudy days. I got lucky the other day to find this Barred Owl sitting in a tree on the side of the road. I just get this cool feeling when one is looking at me - love them!
Hope everyone is able to get out and put some birds on the map by participating in the many Christmas Bird Counts!
Hope everyone is able to get out and put some birds on the map by participating in the many Christmas Bird Counts!
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