I went to bed last night sure that I was going to Schoolhouse Pond this morning, but the car drove to Lake Artemesia instead. I suppose a relatively sure thing has its attractions.

The usual suspects were present, although there’s nothing usual about the Long Tailed Ducks who should be well North of here by now.

Some birds were quite cooperative, and the excellent weather was a big help.

I would not have found the Merlin without help, so thank you, Nathan.

The gazebo at Lake Artemesia.

This Swamp Sparrow may have just arrived.

Two Long Tailed ducks have been attracting birders for several days.

This Caspian Tern was fishing successfully.

Many Wood Ducks were foraging near shore.

A small flock of Canada Geese was resting on the lake.

This Merlin was well hidden and hard to find.

I went back to Artemesia yesterday, as no local place is standing out for migrants. For some reason, Artemesia seems to get more accidentals than other places I visit.

I picked a good day. The LT Ducks have been there a few days, and I found several other good birds as well. Many birders were visiting as well.

A quick stop at Buddy Attick didn’t find much interesting.

This female Cardinal had her eye on me.

I found this Northern Shoveler at Buddy Attick.

Forster’s Terns aren’t often seen at Artemesia.

2 Pied Billed Grebes were cruising the lake.

First Yellow Rumped Warbler of the year.

Wood Ducks were very active today.

These birds are supposed to use freshwater lakes in the colder months, but this is the first time I’ve seen one I’ve seen outside the Chesapeake Bay.