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Swamp Sparrow

It was overcast and cool with the wind when I arrived at Reifel to help out in the afternoon. Not many visitors either so it was fairly quiet on the trails. Providing an interesting start to today’s walk,

Eurasian Wigeon
Eurasian Wigeon

… was this Eurasion Wigeon that was hanging around in the house pond. The White-throated Sparrow was still present near the entrance, but I was not having any luck with getting photos. After checking the east dyke trail I made my way towards the tower as the morning walk had turned up some Swamp Sparrows. They were located in the marsh off the north dyke as you make your way to the outer west dyke. Near the second bench I could hear the chip call,

Swamp Sparrow
Swamp Sparrow

… and one Swamp Sparrow popped up into view.

Swamp Sparrow
Swamp Sparrow

While it would appear the bird was ready to take flight here, it was actually just calling. I could hear two Swamp Sparrows out in the marsh.

Swamp Sparrow
Swamp Sparrow

These birds can be challenging to see and photograph, so this opportunity definitely made my day.

Rock Wren

Brunswick Point has certainly been busy of late. With the continuing Gyrfalcon, American Tree Sparrows, Swamp Sparrows and Lapland Longspur. Then the sighting of a Rock Wren yesterday which was the goal for today. Indications from other birders was that it was well beyond where it was seen previously,

Rock Wren
Rock Wren

… but the long trek to the far side of the point was worth it.

Rock Wren
Rock Wren

The Rock Wren was quite active on the marsh side of the trail,

Rock Wren
Rock Wren

… and did come close enough for some half decent shots. Time well spent on another chilly afternoon.