Black & White Ice & Ducks
This is just some of the ice that was present on Long Island Sound in the month of February. On certain days large swaths of the Sound were covered in sizable sheets of ice in an almost unprecedented crushing blow from this season’s ridiculously cold climate. This black and white photo is really representative of how it has felt in the Northeast. There has been a lot of waterfowl to be seen given that most areas other than the waters of the Atlantic Ocean have been frozen solid.
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 MoreBald Eagle in Florida
Twan took this shot of an immature Bald Eagle in flight in Florida, the bird spending its winter in a far more pleasant climate. In the Northeast we have had a lot of Bald Eagle action during all of these historically frigid days with the enormous raptor hunting waterfowl on any open water it can find and grabbing fish from icy rivers.
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 MoreTrumpeter Swans (Cygnus buccinator)
Here in Chautauqua County we are accustomed to seeing Tundra Swans (Cygnus columbianus) throughout the migratory and wintering seasons. If you are very lucky you may someday be able to pick out a Trumpeter Swan (Cygnus buccinator) in similar habitats. The Trumpeter Swan, the largest of North America’s waterfowl, was nearly extinct in the early 20th century. Thankfully hunting for feathers for the quill pen market, among others, has ended and their numbers have rebounded. This is also due to hard work by the conservation community in North America. It can be very difficult to separate a...
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