We’ve been dodging some wild early March weather and were happy to have a few warm, calm days between those with high winds and arctic temperatures. March has certainly been a “coming in like a lion” so far this year. The snow and ice finally cleared enough for a trip to the bluffs overlooking the ocean at Halibut Point in Rockport MA. The ducks were swimming and often flying below us, giving a different perspective for my photographs. There were still a good number of Harlequin Ducks and they put on a show as they flew in and out of the area below the bluff.
The reason it is called a Long-tailed Duck…
A few Scoters made an appearance. Male and female Surf Scoters flew past. The multi-colored beak on the male is unmistakable. The bright orange knob on the male Black Scoter’s beak is also distinctive.
Red-breasted Mergansers also did a flyby. Later we watched the males doing some courtship displays.
Two freshwater ducks: a Gadwall and and a female Mallard:
How about a couple of dry land birds? Here’s an American Crow carrying a small clam in his beak. Several Horned Larks were spotted foraging along a trail and in the dry grass beside it.
Birds in My Viewfinder 