Blue-winged Teal Hen
The hen Blue-winged Teal is rather skilled at going unnoticed with its drab colors and comparatively tiny size to some of the other ducks it may be spotted hanging out with. We do not get to see too many of them outside of the summer or migration, but this was a recent sighting thanks to the relatively warm weather keeping some water open. What intriguing waterfowl sightings have you had this winter?
Read MoreRed-throated Loon
Ever wonder why Common and Red-throated Loons like this one end up with a winter plumage of mostly varying shades of gray? Look no further! Winter waters, especially on cloudy days, match the birds perfectly…even the waves.
Read MoreHooded Mergansers (Lophodytes cucullatus)
Here is a group of Hooded Mergansers (Lophodytes cucullatus), a common species to spot on an unfrozen pond or lake near you right now. Chautauqua Lake is certainly a good place to find them – at least during this time of the year while it is not a solid block of ice. More of our waterfowl species are moving into the region as we have had an active and varied weather pattern. Have you had any surprises?
Read More
