Just as I was driving into the cemetery, I saw what I thought was an Osprey fly over, but "it's too early isn't it?!" I thought. Dan was already at the cemetery and confirmed that it was indeed an Osprey! We then looked at Ring-billed Gulls, Herring Gulls, Mallards, Goldeneye, Bufflehead, Ring-necked Ducks, Canada Geese, and 4 pairs of Hooded Mergansers swimming around. Dan mentioned that he saw a Lesser Scaup, however it wasn't until after he left and when Walter arrived that I was able to find it again.
Before Walter arrived, I walked around and noticed a few Chickadees, Robins, Starlings, and a flock of Cedar Waxwings, which were a first of the year for me!
Just as Walter pulled into the area, I noticed a little "duck" floating really close to the shoreline. You know those moments were you just assume what it is and carry on? Well, I ALMOST did that. I almost drove right by it thinking it was another female mallard, but something made me stop, reverse, and get out for a second look. I am so glad that I did too, because I saw my year-first Pie-billed Grebe swimming away from me! I don't believe I saw one last year, so it was a nice to be able to check it off. What little cuties they are too!
We stayed around and looked for a wee bit. After a while, we finally re-spotted the Lesser Scaup too! It took us a little while to really find all the qualities that made it a Lesser as opposed to a Greater, however both of us ended up being comfortable with our choice. Just as we were about to pack up, I heard a very familiar rattling call. Yup...it was my first Belted Kingfisher of the year!! Can't believe they are all back already!
Within the last few days I also had the first Song Sparrow visit my bird feeder! The squirrels are still hanging around almost non-stop. I noticed this grey one yesterday that looked just hilarious shedding and changing into its summer coat. So, naturally, I couldn't resist taking a photo!
I hope that everyone had a great Easter/long weekend!!
Happy Naturing!
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