Hooded Mergansers
It has been a great autumn for Hooded Mergansers (Lophodytes cucullatus) even as we near the end of the season, with all of the above-average temperatures, little ice and rarely seen snow. Courting is well underway for these birds as you can see by the striking black-and-white crests being displayed by the drakes. The several hens present on this pond were mostly preoccupied with trying to take a nap or grabbing a bite to eat. The boys kept swimming after them, vocalizing and trying their best to get some attention. When it comes time to breed these birds will be making their nests in tree...
Read MoreOrchard Orioles
This morning was a terrific one for yet more orioles! After being lucky enough to get a nice pose from a male Baltimore Oriole yesterday, I was able to get a couple decent photos of both female and male Orchard Orioles (Icterus spurius) today. The only reason they stopped at such low levels for me even for a moment was because the ladies were actively having to avoid all the guys chasing after them. Here is hoping I get to enjoy watching a pair building a nest soon. Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
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 MoreSinging Song Sparrow
By now you have likely heard the Song Sparrow belting out tunes all day long in the nearly-spring sun. They are really ramping up their advertisements as they return to territories and start seeking mates. Can you feel the spring? You can definitely hear it now!
Read MoreScaup Anyone?
Here are justttttt a few Scaup, mostly Greater with some Lesser, on the move while feeding on their way back to the north. Waterfowl are getting busy now, whether it is migration or courting, as our shores and waters are finally melting here in the Northeast. March means “move!” if you are a waterbird. Did you count them?
Read More
