I decided to try a new place today, so I went back to Lake Artemesia in Beltsville for a closer look. While not an overwhelming success, I did get a new bird and saw my first Racccoon in a tree. A good day, all in all.
This Ring Necked Duck is a first for me. It was taken during the morning fog.
From Cornell:
“Of all the diving duck species, the Ring-necked Duck is most likely to drop into small ponds during migration.”
These Canada Geese were enjoying the early morning tranquility.There were dozens of geese on the lake.
This Beaver is carrying breakfast back to his den.
This Ruddy Duck was patrolling the lake by himself.
This Song Sparrow struck a nice pose.
There were several flocks of Cedar Waxwings in residence.
This Ruby Crowned Kinglet is giving us a look at his crown.
This Mockingbird’s pose was so bizarre, I took a closer look. In the preceding image you can see his foot is tucked up under his wing, but I don’t know why.
This Brown Thrasher flew into the frame while I was photographing another bird.
I’ve seen Raccoons around garbage cans or in the back yard, but this is the first time I saw one near his den.
This Blue Headed Vireo was a nice find. (Thanks, Ed)
This looks like a family outing.
This may be a female Ruddy Duck, but I’m not sure. It turns out to be a Pied Bill Grebe (Thanks, Kevin).
There was a raft of 10-12 Ruddy Ducks, all snoozing.
:Love the turtle family but love the crown the most!!
Great photos, as always, Hugh. The last photo is a Pied-billed Grebe.
Where is Parole Park and RIde?