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.
Dawn at Lake Artemesia.
This Downy Woodpecker was quite close.
I haven’t gotten close to a female Cardinal in a while.
I kind of like this odd Mallard pose.
I’m not sure why this Great Egret is still this far North.
There are more Double Crested Cormorants than usual.
I’m used to seeing Common Goldeneyes in the bay, not in an inland lake.
Several Great Blue Herons were feeding.
Only a few Ruddy Ducks were foraging.
Buffleheads will probably be around all Winter.
This Carolina Wren was very loud.
The Canada Geese usually leave right after sunrise.