Black Duck

This was not the bird I was hoping for but sometimes you have to be satisfied with what you get. At least the light was perfect, the bird was close and
not too stressed by my presence. May 2, East Ragged Island.

Double-crested Cormorants

The Double-crested Cormorants seem especially plentiful this year. These shots were taken on May 2nd at East Ragged Island.

Finches

American Goldfinch -male. Not quite in full breeding plumage on May 2.

Female Purple Finch

Male Purple Finch

As of mid May there are still a few Pine Siskins coming to the feeder. The Purple Finches arrived on schedule in late April
and the Goldfinches were scarce this year.

Mallard Pair



I assume these birds are nesting in the area. I found a nest in the same general vicinity the previous year.
April 29, Hemeon's Head
 

Wilson's Snipe

I guess this is another of our spring migrants. I know a few hardy individuals do over winter but I suspect there were few this year.
April 26, East Jordan.

Great Blue Heron

The Great Blues have arrived for the breeding season. I always look forward to seeing them in their nuptial plumage.
April 22, East Ragged Island.

Osprey Pair

A pair of Osprey made a quick stop at the local pond on April 16. The bottom bird which I assume is the female given the dark "necklace"
landed in the pine tree but then got spooked by my presence. The second bird made a close fly-by and continued on. There seems to be fewer
Osprey in the area in recent years. One wonders whether the relative explosion of the Bald Eagle population may be responsible since they
have been known to usurp nesting sites.