Trumpeter Swans

Another quick trip over to Vadnais.  There have been 6 Trumpeter Swans (adults and juveniles) feeding along the access road this week.  The mallards hang around then as they stir up stuff to eat.

White balance set to Sunny

This was a great day for photographing birds. Other than a pretty severe windchill, the sun was bright and the birds were out. I saw 24 species which for a cold November day is great. Even got to see a couple of Bald eagles, but no photos.  Image Gallery...

Ring-necked Duck

Tina and I finally went birding today, in spite of the cold north wind.  We read a report of a Long-tailed Duck on Lake Vadnais, but were unable to find this rare bird.  We were however treated to numerous Common Goldeneyes, Hooded Mergansers, Mallards, several...

Color variants

Friday, we experienced our first snowflakes of the season and the feeders were quite busy, with many of the birds trying to ‘bulk up’ for the cold. One of the finches got our attention as his colors didn’t seem to match what they should. Both the House Finch and...

Winter arrives

Winter arrived this morning with a light dusting of snow… nothing like the 40+ inches that fell yesterday in South Dakota. The feeders are busy as all of the backyard birds prepare for the colder weather.   Along with all of the usual suspects, a Fox Sparrow stopped...

First Great Horned Owls

Today was quite special… woke up ready to vote but had to walk the dog first.  As we entered Crepeau Park, the local crows were yelling at or about someone, so Biggs and I naturally had to have a look.  We were greeted by not one but two Great Horned Owls.  Neighbors...