Belted Kingfisher at Patuxent NWR

I had eye surgery Monday, spent Tuesday and Wednesday recovering, but got to Patuxent Wildlife Refuge this morning late, as I took a wrong turn. The late start put me right in the hottest weather, and I didn’t stay long. I believe this much heat affects the birds, who are probably staying in the shade, or deep in the woods.

Bluebird

Bluebird

This Bluebird, and several juveniles, were at the lake.

Canada Goose

 

Canada Goose

A flock of Canada Geese flew low over the lake.

Deer

This Deer was cooling off in the marsh.

Mourning Dove

I often pass up Mourning Doves because they are so common, but I liked the look of this one.

Dragonfly

Dragonfly

There are Dragonflies in every corner of the refuge.

Belted Kingfisher

Belted Kingfisher

Belted Kingfisher

I watched this Kingfisher for quite a while as she flew back and forth over Goose Pond. The water level was very low, and I fear he may have been wasting his time.

Western Tiger Swallowtail

It was far too hot to chase butterflies, but this Western Tiger Swallowtail landed quite close and posed for a while.

Blue Grosbeak

This Blue Grosbeak was a surprise. He was deep in the little bush, and I thought I was photographing a Starling.

Eastern Wood Peewee

I’m unsure, but I think this is an Eastern Wood Peewee .