Eurasian 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 MoreDrake Common Goldeneye Flying
This drake Common Goldeneye (Bucephala clangula) is on the move, ready to head back to the north for the spring. The ice and snow are going to slowly be devoured by the sun and (eventually) warming temperatures as water begins to open once again. It does not feel like it but very quietly…migration has begun!
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 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...
Read MoreRedhead on Lake Erie
Here is a drake Redhead duck having a quiet swim in Lake Erie on a cloudy day with lake effect snow in the air. I love how their yellow eyes contrast with the red, and I envy how peaceful and content this bird looks in such frosty conditions. Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
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