Blog – Page 66 – CrazyM Bird & Nature Photography

Mountain Bluebird

Another early spring event I look forward to is the Mountain Bluebird. Each year at this time during their migration they can usually be seen in Boundary Bay Regional Park in Tsawwassen. Having already been sighted elsewhere in the Lower Mainland recently, I made my way down there this afternoon.

Only a few minutes after arriving I spotted my target bird.

There were two male Mountain Bluebirds actively hunting for insects along the beach.

While numbers will vary each year, these were the only two I saw today. Still, not bad for the first try of this year for these beauties.

Bushtit

With the arrival of spring each year there is something I always try to photograph. One of natures many little marvels, the Bushtit nest. These intricate woven nests of spider webs, lichen, moss and other plants always fascinate me. One reliable area over the years for getting photos has been the South Arm Marshes.

I was fortunate to get a pair of Bushtit active at a nest this afternoon. Here the female is arriving with some moss.

Once finished inside she pauses briefly at the entrance before leaving to gather some more nesting material. Only took a few shots, but I was happy with these.

Northern Shrike

One bird that I have not had much success with this winter is the Northern Shrike. They have been around in various spots and I have seen them, just no photos to speak of. Fortunately that would change this afternoon. I was out enjoying another beautiful afternoon walking around Brunswick Point. At the start of the trail there were some Common Goldeneye and Western Grebe in the river. Once out on the point both Northern Harrier and Short-eared Owls were active over the marsh. On getting closer to the far side a familiar streak of grey, black and white flew into a stand of trees just off the dyke. I made my way slowly along the trail that parallels the dyke.

It was not long before I came across the Northern Shrike perching atop a tree.

This has been a good spot for them in the past and this bird did not disappoint.

Even more delightful was the fact it was calling quite a bit while moving between the trees. Perhaps it could sense spring was in the air. It was good to finally get some shots before they move on. On my way back out a group of Red-breasted Mergansers had also arrived on the river.