Downy Woodpecker at Lake Artemesia.

The weatherman promised a sunny day and he delivered. I left early for Artemesia in hopes of getting some dawn color, but it was kind of tepid.

Canada Geese are still the dominant waterfowl, but there were plenty of others, including the continuing Goldeneyes, Great Blue Herons and a Great Egret.

A few Cormorants, Mallards and Gulls contributed, as well as a Cardinal and very cooperative Woodpecker.

Lake Artemesia 115

Dawn at Lake Artemesia.

Downy Woodpecker 2018-10

Downy Woodpecker 2018-11

This Downy Woodpecker was quite close.

Cardinal 2018-22

I haven’t gotten close to a female Cardinal in a while.

Mallard 2018-59

Mallard 2018-60

I kind of like this odd Mallard pose.

Great Egret 2018-107

I’m not sure why this Great Egret is still this far North.

Double Crested Cormorant 2018-28

There are more Double Crested Cormorants than usual.

Common Goldeneye 2018-19

Common Goldeneye 2018-20

Common Goldeneye 2018-21

I’m used to seeing Common Goldeneyes in the bay, not in an inland lake.

Great Blue Heron 2018-100

Several Great Blue Herons were feeding.

Ruddy Duck 2018-26

Only a few Ruddy Ducks were foraging.

Bufflehead 2018-90

Buffleheads will probably be around all Winter.

Carolina Wren 2018-7

This Carolina Wren was very loud.

Canada Goose 2018-42

The Canada Geese usually leave right after sunrise.