Chirps and Cheeps

An early Sunday morning walk through Birdsong brought my FOY Ruby-crowned Kinglets and Barn Swallows. I also saw several Golden-crowned Kinglets, 2 Brown Creepers, and a lifer, a Sharp-shinned Hawk. I had gotten an early start hoping to find an American Woodcock - but alas, still no luck on that elusive bird - YET!

I saw the Sharp-shinned Hawk only after s/he was coming up after a dive into a patch of dry, winter reeds. It perched on the railing of the walkway and I noticed a single feather hanging loosely on one talon. The targeted prey had obviously escaped certain death by a very close call.

Shortly after this, the hawk dove into the other side of the boardwalk, putting up at least 20 Tree Swallows into a frenzied, screaming circle of rage in the sky that lasted for several minutes. The unsatisfied hawk paid them no never mind and sat surveying the marsh from its perch, not minding my presence either. It was almost as if it didn't notice me. I was at liberty to shoot photo after photo of him/her and I really enjoyed the opportunity.

I was surprised to find a Blue-winged Teal swimming in a back pond. And, other than the Ruby-crowned Kinglets and Barn Swallows, I found no other first-of-year birds this morning. Soon!