Early March

These are some random photographs from the end of February and early March. Birds seem to be in transition period and sightings are less frequent. But March is a seasonal transition time too. It can’t seem to make up its mind whether it is a winter or a spring month.

We didn’t see some of our winter birds like Crossbills and Redpolls that only appear in years when there is an irruption or a shortage in the food supply further north. But Snow Buntings usually appear annually and were around all of this winter.

Snowy Owls have been fairly abundant this year. The pattern of feathers on this one’s face gives the impression that it is smiling. Of course, you would smile too if you got to hang out near the beach on a sunny day!

This is an interesting duck. It appears to be a Mallard-Black Duck Hybrid. Mallards and American Black Ducks are very close genetically and often hybridize.

This picture proves that there is no honor among thieves.

I have a lot of photos of Bufflehead activity and it has been tough to whittle them down for a post. This male in flight will have to do while I work on it. Be ready for a long post when I finally do get through all the mating display photos.

It takes a cold heart to not like a Chickadee. These are a year round resident and everyone seems to like their bold, sassy but friendly nature. They sometimes seem curious and will come quite close to people. They will land on one feeder on the pole while I am filling the other. They can be coaxed to take seeds from your hand, although I haven’t tried it myself.