After getting that amazing photo of the Bobcat, I was pretty sure that I wouldn’t be so lucky again for awhile. However, the following day, Ann and I decided to go back for some serious birding. We were very disappointed with the lack of birds. Hey, isn’t this migrating time? Where are the birds? Hard to say, as I sure can’t predict the behavior of the avian community.
Anyway, on the way to Middle Concho Park, I decided to turn into a smaller area called Hot Water Slough Park. The first thing I noticed was a large bird on the ground, and as we watched it flew up into a nearby tree. Well, I’ll be danged if it wasn’t a Swainson’s Hawk. I hurriedly tried to maneuver my car into a position so I could photograph it from my driver’s side window. The bird co-operated and remained perched for me. Had I tried to leave my vehicle, it would for sure have flown.
We continued into Middle Concho Park, but nary was a bird to be seen. We left there and decided to return to Spring Creek Park. Again, there was a distinct lack of birds there, too. However, we are pretty patient. We cruised along the river bank and all of a sudden, Ann exclaimed, “There’s an owl”. Wow! It was a Great Horned Owl, and almost directly overhead. As I again tried to maneuver my car for a vantage point, she said, “There’s another one!” Sure enough, above and slightly left was another adult, but it was partially hidden in the branches. I was able to get some nice shots of the first one.
So even though there were few of the regular birds that make up the normal population, it was nice to see these nice surprises.
The very next day, we tried again. Again, we were rewarded with another great surprise. As we turned into Spring Creek Park, we came upon a large dead tree next to the river bank. In past years, we had seen hawks, and other birds perched there, but usually it is empty of any bird life. This time there was an Osprey sitting there. One of the first of the winter season. It was very close, as I again, was able to get my car into perfect shooting position. The first image is from a spot where he was un-obstructed by branches.
After getting several shots from that spot, I moved a few yards and took the following photo. Notice he is on the same branch, but I think this image looks a bit more natural. I am undecided as to which one I like the best.
I hope you enjoyed this post and the photos. There is a lesson to be heard here; never give up as you never know what surprises may lie in the next tree.
You are one lucky guy. (and gal)
I am very lucky – and very thankful. 🙂
Your never give up worked..great photos…
No, I never give up. Thanks, Syl.
Wow, Wow, and Wow!!! Loved these shots – especially the owl! I’m glad you got some nice surprises and we all get the benefit! 🙂
Thank you do much, Jo. So glad you liked them so much. 🙂
Great surprises you got! Some days the birds are really difficult to spot and other days are full of pleasant surprises…like these wonderful pictures will tell.
Thanks, Helen. I agree with all you said. 🙂
All beautiful birds! What a great opportunity for you and Ann…glad she has sharp eyes and you have some major skills in maneuvering a vehicle! Well, there is some skill in that camera use, too! hugs
Thanks, Beth. I agree, Ann has sharp eyes as I have to keep my eyes on the path ahead for the car.
Amazing photographs. I love the Swainson’s Hawk. I have never seen one as far as I know (they are rare in my neck of the woods). I feel like I’ve met this one!
Thanks, Lisa. You need to travel a little west, as they pretty much all over the western half of the country. Nearly as large as a Red-tailed Hawk. Glad you like it.
“Never give up”……. Love reading your blogged adventures and seeing your amazing pics. 🙂
Thanks, Christie. I’m glad you are enjoying all of it. 🙂
Great captures Bob! 🙂
Thanks,H.J. 🙂
Great pics. So excited for u all.
Sent from my iPhone
>
Thanks, Annette, I appreciate you.