Sunny, sunny, sunny. Another 60 degree morning with little wind, scattered clouds and more wildfire related haze. An excellent day for a walk in the woods.
The Ones That Got Away
Today’s birding was eventful and productive. At first things were not looking good. I managed to miss shots of in-flight Belted Kingfisher, Cormorants and a Great Blue Heron – one after the other. I have been wondering where all the Kingfishers were hiding when I spotted one abandoning his perch next to the river and heading downstream right past my position. I got him in the viewfinder but the camera did not get a focus lock and so would not allow me to release the shutter. As I was expressing my displeasure with that situation two Cormorants broke from the river right in front of me and followed the Kingfisher down the river. I watched them fly off and then as I turned to continue my walk heading upriver a Great Blue Heron flew right past following the previous three birds. I missed them all. Further up river I did get a clear shot at what I believe is a Winter Wren so my confidence got a much needed boost.
Heron Family Album
After my rocky start today’s walk wrapped up with a big finish. My chosen path this morning took me past the Heron nest that I have been checking in on from time to time this year. I was delighted to find four of the big birds perched in and around the nest. Today’s featured image (above) shows all four birds as I found them. I think one of the two perched outside the nest is a parent but I am not really sure. I have been under the impression that there were three babies but I could be wrong and this could be a picture of four siblings. I also do not know if the kids have learned to fly yet but they look big and strong enough to me. None of the birds flew away while I was there but there was a little bouncing around between the limbs and the nest. It was fun to watch.
Sightings:
Birds: Starlings, Robins, Swallows, Barn Swallows, Great Blue Herons, Cormorants, Kingbirds, Canada Geese, Mallard Ducks, Flicker, Mourning Doves, Winter Wren, Belted Kingfisher
Critters: Mule Deer
Gear: Nikon D5100, 55-200mm, 55-300mm
Young Great Blue Heron stretches his wing and leg at Lake Pueblo State Park, Colorado 
Young Great Blue Heron at Lake Pueblo State Park, Colorado
