Here at the Pond, that is, the real, literal Pond, Spring is a busy time. I know, for some of you, Spring is so far behind as you’re deep into Summer already. I caught the following pics early this week while it was warm and sunny; yesterday was a downer, a chilly 5C (42F). But then the high came last night with the NBA game. We The North, Arti watches movies, birds, and basketball.
Now is a wonderful time to greet migrating friends coming back to nest. Even if you’re just strolling in the woods near the Pond without intention to spot birds, you’re bound to see some beautiful creatures amidst the cacophony of chirps and songs.
If you spot a furry ball like this up on a tree branch, don’t pass by without pausing:

Wait a bit, and you’ll see what it really is. A baby owl preening:

A big yawn… nice, no teeth to brush:

Here’s looking at you, kid.

A ‘Where’s Waldo’ exercise: All in the family. Well, not all, some. How many owls can you see here:

Alright, enough spotlight. Somewhere else, a Yellow Warbler is singing his heart out in the bright sunshine:

And further away, silently perching on another tree, a Great Blue Heron. I seldom see one high up on a tree and not in the water. A bit blurry pic cause it’s so far away:

With song birds, it’s ‘hear before you see’. By their calls, I know they’re around. Finding them is another matter. Taking a photo of them is a challenge. I can hear two Baltimore Orioles calling and responding to each other from two trees some distance apart, airmailing each other.

Closer to the water, a Yellow-headed blackbird is posing for me:

Enjoying a swim is Mr. Merganser:

I always think of Lucille Ball whenever I see a female Merganser:

How’s your Spring exploration so far? Birds, wildlife, Nature finds?
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