Brant
Very few waterfowl species have been seen in any sizable numbers consistently in Long Island Sound in November and early December. Some of the chillier night air, along with the calendar, is finally pushing additional birds more to the south. One exception has been the Atlantic Brant, with hundreds of birds being seen on many days. They are starting to dwindle as they head for even warmer quarters as finally more American Black Duck, Gadwall, Red-breasted Merganser, Red-throated and Common Loons, American Wigeon and others arrive. Even while noting additional species their overall abundance...
Read MoreEurasian Wigeon Calling & Courting
Take a look and listen to this drake Eurasian Wigeon calling and courting some female American Wigeons, off camera. His loud call is one you are not likely to hear over here in North America! This bird is a continuing individual that has spent months in Stratford, Connecticut. Spring waterfowl activity is building up, and I wonder if this guy will actually spend breeding season here. Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach...
Read MoreLove in the Air
When I first saw these birds I noticed that the American Wigeon male and female seemed to be a pair, staying close together and calmly swimming in the water. Ducks are pairing off now, if they have not already, and breeding season is not far away. However, I also saw another male following them, and I swear he had a bit of a lonely look to him. Even in this photo you can see his somewhat sad demeanor. I hope I am simply imagining it! Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
Read MoreAmerican vs. Eurasian Wigeon Race
And we’re off! The race between the American and Eurasian (Wigeons) has the latter taking an early lead, but the vocal American is yelling his way to the front. Take a look at that loud bill action! This Eurasian has a history of racing, with it also besting another American recently as you can see in the other photo.
Read MoreResting Eurasian Wigeon
If you are participating in the Great Backyard Bird Count later this week be mindful of finding rarities like this Eurasian Wigeon in Stratford, Connecticut. You can find the species among American Wigeon most often, like this alert drake looking at me and the camera resting with some of its new American friends. Even when they tuck their heads in to sleep you can find that dark reddish/orange head with the buff-colored crown floating on the water and standing out from the green surrounding it. This upcoming Friday through Monday will be frigid but hopefully very productive birding! Scott...
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