North 40 – Page 8 – CrazyM Bird & Nature Photography

Bullock’s Oriole

After seeing reports of some interesting birds showing up elsewhere the last couple of days I headed back out the North 40 this afternoon. I was hoping for a better chance with the Black-headed Grosbeak from yesterday, but I could not locate it today.

Some entertainment while scouring the trees,

… was this Crow harassing one of the Bald Eagles.

I would keep moving between stands of trees, stopping to watch and listen before moving on. Finally, just before moving off from one area, a song caught my ear. It sounded familiar, but I could not place it right away. After moving around the tree for a couple of minutes I found a vantage point that provided a view of the source.

A Bullock’s Oriole was tucked away high up in the tree. Another first of year bird for the North 40. They have nested in this area in past years. Unfortunately after it flew off from this spot I could not relocate it or hear it singing. Hopefully it sticks around and I get another chance with this colourful bird.

Swallow, Blackbird, Grosbeak & Eagle

First stop this afternoon was at Reifel. While there were some Cinnamon and Blue-winged Teal around, neither were in decent spots for photos when I saw them. While watching the swallows at the northwest corner I noticed a lone Cliff Swallow, but it was too far off for a photo. They are not one of the regulars here,

… unlike the Tree Swallows which are everywhere. Also present in the outer ponds today were over 100 Dowitchers.

With the longer days now it was too early to head home after leaving Reifel, so I decided to check the North 40 again. While driving along Westham Island Road I noticed a blackbird I had not photographed in some time.

The Brewer’s Blackbird is regularly seen around the farm fields in this area.

It was quieter on the warbler front than on my past visits at the North 40 today. While scanning the trees a flash of colour did get my attention,

… a Black-headed Grosbeak. The first I have seen this year, unfortunately it was not going to cooperate by coming down lower or any closer.

And because they are usually around and will sit nice for you once in a while.

Yellow-rumped Warblers

The warbler quest started off in Deas Island Park this afternoon. While there were lots around, including a brief glimpse of another Townsend’s, none were alighting in spots that were any good for photos. Not wanting to end the day empty handed, I stopped by the North 40 on my way home.