Spring sprung a few days ago. There are reports of some of the arriving summer birds, but I haven’t seen very many of them yet. But soon, we will be having orioles, buntings, and other colorful birds to watch for. In the meantime, here are a few photos that I managed to get during the past few days.
We drove to San Angelo State Park as we had heard of some Scissor-tailed Flycatchers that had arrived there. We missed them, but I got some nice sparrow photos. (Click on any photo to see some nice enlargements.)
This Song Sparrow was having a difficult time in the wind.
Song sparrow
This Vesper Sparrow was having an easier time…..
Vesper Sparrow
…..and this Black-throated was taking it pretty calmly.
Black-throated Sparrow
Wandering down in the grass, this Greater Roadrunner was having a great time doing a bit of hunting.
Greater Roadrunner
Back out at Spring Creek Park, we had to check on our owls. There was nothing we could see on the nest, as it is pretty high up in a tree, but the parents to be were taking a break in a nearby tree.
Great Horned Owls
While we were there in the park, we decided to check out the brushy areas, where we can usually find some of the tiny birds. We saw several kinglets, but the only photos I came up with was of this Blue-gray Gnatcatcher.
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher
After getting those photos we cruised along the water and was treated with this Great Blue Heron, about 200 yards away across the water.
Great Blue Heron
That’s about it for this post. We’ll get out and about again in the next few days, after completing some yard chores.
Until then, Happy Birding!!
I don’t remember the last time I have mentioned this, but I would like you to know that ALL of my photos that you see on any of my posts are for sale. Also I still have copies of my book, “Birds, Beasts and Buttes”, and my DVD of 100 of my best photos. Just e-mail me at bobzeller@pobox.com. for more info.
These are all excellent captures, but I especially love the blue-grey gnatcatcher. Its color is amazing.
Many thanks, Trail Walker, I love that little bird, too.
Great pics!
Thanks, Samuel, I appreciate it.
I have developed an interest in sparrows and now look at the brown birds differently. Very nice photos. Yard work is never ending, so pause now and then to do a bit of birding. Hugs to you and Ann.
Thanks, Beth. I know what you mean about the sparrows. There are so many of that species, I still am learning. 🙂
Yes, Bob, I looked it up after you naming it and that fit perfectly. I’m learning to be a better birder through your blog. Thanks.
Any time, Rick. I enjoy helping with bird identification.
These are terrific!
Thanks so much, Belinda.
Great shots Bob! 🙂
Bob, in my back yard this morning in your neighborhood, I saw a small beige bird with an orange beak and a small orange tuft on top of his head. I think he/she is nesting in my large pine. Any ideas what it could be? Hanks.
That sounds like a female Northern Cardinal. Your description fits. Thanks for commenting, Rick. I appreciate it.