George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary – Page 66

Peregrine Falcon

After a few chores around the house this morning I headed out to Reifel for the afternoon to help out on the trails. My only photos of the day were of a Peregrine Falcon.

This particular bird was perched nicely on an old snag along the driveway.

While the light was slightly behind the falcon,

… it still provided for some decent shots. No photos after that, but it was still an enjoyable afternoon to be out answering visitors questions along the trails.

Snowy Owl

Well I certainly did not head out to Reifel this afternoon with the expectation of seeing a Snowy Owl,

… but low and behold there was one roosting in a tree along the centre dyke trail.

It seemed to be resting fairly peacefully even with those stopping to admire the bird.

It was relaxed enough that it started a preening session,

… which was a great opportunity to capture this behaviour.

Then finishing with a nice glance towards those that were taking it all in. Use to seeing them out in the marsh, it was fun spending some time with this one in a tree.

Northern Saw-whet Owl & Others

This afternoon’s stroll was at the Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary. While I have been seeing Saw-whet Owls the last couple of weeks, none have been in spots suitable for photographing. While today was not much different,

… this Northern Saw-whet Owl was a little less hidden than usual. When the Chickadees came around the tree alerting to the owl’s presence,

… its only reaction was to yawn and then continue napping.

I then spent some time at the northeast corner of the east dyke trail. An Evening Grosbeak had been sighted there yesterday. While waiting to see if it would make an appearance,

… I took the opportunity to photograph some of the others stopping by.

As luck would have it, no sign of the Evening Grosbeak.

Last stop of the afternoon was in the area of the tower to look for a Virginia Rail. While I did hear it, and then spot in amongst the reeds, it did not come out into the open.

One of many Red-winged Blackbirds provided the last shot of the afternoon.