April 22, 2023
What better way to appreciate Earth’s colors, shapes, and sounds than birdwatching? I’ll admit, I might be a little biased. A group of us met at Kachina Wetlands on a Saturday (Earth Day) morning, the temperature mild with a light breeze and blue skies. We saw a variety of shorebirds, songbirds, and waterfowl— a particularly birdy day.
A male and female Mallard waddled around the wetlands, perhaps in pursuit of the perfect spot for their nest.
Meanwhile, Red-winged Blackbirds blasted out their calls from what seemed like every surface they could get ahold of. It’s almost hard to believe the bird above and below are the same individual. Amazing how much those epaulets pop out when males sing.
Female Red-winged Blackbirds were also in the mix. She’s thinking, “Hmmm… which male should I choose?”
Sparrows whistled their melodic songs between Red-winged Blackbird calls. I found these two foraging on the ground; different plumage, but both stunning.
Male Ruddy Duck bills turn baby blue during the breeding season, a sure sign of spring. A male was flapping around in the water…
…accompanied by a flock of American Coots.
Willets are fairly nondescript until they take off in flight. The bands of white along their wings are handy giveaways for identifying this species.
Quite opposite of nondescript, a Western Bluebird looked around as he grasped onto a reed.
One of the most exciting birds of the day was a flock of Black-crowned Night Herons. I’ve never seen this species at the wetlands, so finding five was a treat. You can barely make out their ruby-red eyes in the photo above.
May the warm spring air bring you happiness and may every day be Earth Day. Happy Birding… 🌎
Want the latest? Subscribe for email notifications!
Gone Birdin' 