February 26, 2021
My first trip to Farmington Bay was in February 2016 for Utah Bald Eagle Day, an annual event where biologists distribute carp at various wildlife hubs around the state. Not knowing what to expect but eager to see a Bald Eagle or two, my mom and I packed up binoculars and hit the blacktop first thing in the morning. We turned the corner onto the dirt road entrance and were greeted by dozens of Bald Eagles, along with an assortment of other raptors. We were both overcome with awe.
I returned in the spring of that same year. To this day, I have never seen so many different bird species in one place at the same time. The water and surrounding areas looked like a scene from a spring break beach party for birds. Farmington Bay quickly became my go-to spot while living in Salt Lake City and remains one of my favorite birdwatching destinations. Winter offers great looks at raptors, gulls, and waterfowl. Come spring, the bay is decorated with boatloads of shorebirds and songbirds. Either way, the place is a gem.
Fast forward five years, my mom and I set off on another lovely outing to Farmington, Utah. Farmington Bay’s straightforward layout is ideal for birding by car. As much as I like getting my boots dirty on foot, it’s nice every once in a while to sit back, relax, and watch birds from a comfortable chair.
The Tundra Swans photographed above will soon migrate thousands of miles to breed in the tundra of Alaska and Canada. They winter in the United States but only in a few areas, so I was happy to catch them before they begin their journey north. As depicted in the photograph, they typically congregate in flocks during winter months and disperse into pairs upon arriving at their breeding grounds in spring. They are thought to mate for life.
Northern Harriers’ bright white rump patches make identifying them a whole lot easier. In general, adult females have an overall brown plumage, while adult males are mostly gray. All maintain the telltale white rump, regardless of sex. Unlike most other raptors who rely primarily on eyesight to detect prey, they utilize both eyesight and hearing.
Seeing a Bald Eagle in person, I’m reminded of just how large they really are, even compared to other birds of prey.
Birds with hooked beaks typically consume a carnivorous diet, so the beaks on Loggerhead Shrikes have always stood out to me. In addition to insects, they also hunt small rodents, birds, and amphibians; an impressive feat considering their size.
A special thanks to the male Red-winged Blackbird above who was calling out repeatedly, adding a pleasant jingle to the otherwise quiet morning.
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Gone Birdin' 