A Common Loon in an uncommon situation. Loons frequently can be seen along the eastern coast where they migrate. It is a bit uncommon to see them on a suburban lake. This male has been here for about three weeks. He seams to be healthy i.e. fishing and moving around the lake. There has been some concern the lake is not long enough to provide a “runway” for him to take off. No one has reported observing any attempt by the loon to takeoff. Other extralimital bird species have visited the area and stayed for extended periods then, disappeared while no one was looking, perhaps the loon will, too.
Category Archives: Natural LIght
Redstart Warbler
Here at the Thompson WMA, the trillium (grandiflora) season coincides with the spring bird migration. Once in a while, you can capture a warbler enjoying the trilliums while looking for insects. I was on my knees photographing the trilliums when the redstart posed for me. At one point, this male redstart came so close to me I was not able to focus the lens!
Jack Practicing His Sermon
Another treat to be had when walking through the woods. The flower is bright green until mature when it develops the dark stripes.
This is My Territory!
Red Winged Blackbirds become very protective of “their” territory when it is breeding season. The birds build nests in tall grasses in wetlands. They will often perch on tree limbs and call out telling other RWBB’s they are there i.e females welcome, males stay away!
A Fun Guy
A bad pun, but a pretty (to me) image. I happened upon this fungus while strolling along the Potomac River at Ball’s Bluff park. There are large areas filled with the Virginia Bluebells. Part of the credit for preserving the Bluebells goes to Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy for removing invasive mustard plants. Thanks! It makes my photography easier. Ball’s Bluff National Battlefield Park is the home to many types of wildflowers. I’ll have to try and count the ones I have seen over the years.