There were numerous different trees and bushes beginning to burst their buds
And some of the locals were busy checking out potential nesting sites
This is a pair of Wood Ducks Aix sponsa, sorry the lighting is so bad but as I said it was very overcast. In case you were wondering, Wood Ducks nest high up in trees and then when the ducklings hatch they make a death defying leap to the ground before scurrying off to the nearest water. They are so tiny that they just bounce when they hit the ground like little fluffy balls.
The Red-winged Blackbirds Agelaius phoeniceus, although not yet appropriately attired in their breeding plumage, are in full voice as they work to establish their territories.
I was delighted to see my first Northern Rough-winged Swallows Stelgidopteryx serripennis of the year, look closely, it is perching on the branch! Although I cannot imagine what they are finding to eat as it is way too cold for any flying insects that I could see.
Another summer visitor that has started to arrive is the Green Heron Butorides virescens, at least I know there are plenty of fish in the pond for him, although the MASSIVE Koi that I saw cruising around may be a bit more than the heron could handle :)
And why, you may ask, am I including a picture of an old tree in a post about new life? Well that is because someone has made themselves a very cosy nest right inside it......................
So although my nose and fingers were numb with cold by the time I came back inside I most definitely did find evidence of new life and new beginnings!
For great posts all with an 'N' theme this week, check out ABC Wednesday.
Photo Credits - CJT
10 comments:
Always rant, it does you good especially when you feel so strongly ans are so right. I couldn't blog if I couldn't rant. That said this is such a lovely series of new and fresh beginning.
It still looks a bit chilly!
Interesting post and as usual I always learn something here...the info about wood ducks...new life is a great N...
What very pretty pictures! I am so glad that Spring has finally come : ). Winter has wonderful moments but, boy, can it get depressing after a while!
You were justified in being upset.. but I am loving the photo of the wood ducks in the tree. I saw a wood duck hen land in a neighbor's tree and it was a amazing. I just saw my first brood of mallard ducklings today and it is way too early. It's cold and there isn't much in the way of insect life for them. I guess our warmer March temps threw her timing off. If she brings them this way, I have some (unmedicated) chick started they can have to help them for the next few cold days. Hang in there......Michelle
Have I told you that i love your blog? It is so right up my alley. That last pic of the duck peeking out of the tree is priceless... Peking duck! lol
sorry, couldn't resist :-p
Becky mad me laugh...Peking duck....Great new beginnings series for the letter N. Definitely a good day.
Last night on my way out I got a very nice, close view of a wood duck pair. No camera, of course. Great shots all around on your part.
What glorious spring photos! I love them...they sing of new life and new beginnings, for sure!
It was a good rant, but it's nice to see the new beginnings post too!
Love the duck in a tree - how sweet. :) But I'm not sorry I won't be around to see the ducklings plummet to earth.
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