Snowy Days

This past week we had a few snowfalls.  I hope this coming week will be warm and rainy.

Both male and female Downy Woodpeckers visited here a few times to peck on the suet on cold days.

Little Bushtits came in a big flock to nibble their share.

Out of all the little birds here,  Oregon Juncos look best with snow.

"We love the cold temperature."

Cold Wind from Alaska

For a week, it's been chilly with the northern wind from Alaska.  One sunny day, off we went to the usual wetland.

Canadian Geese were waking up.

Northern Pintails were swimming  across the pond.

Altogether we saw several hawks.  At the end of our stroll, a couple of  juvenile Red-tailed Hawks came out for our close-up view of their flight.

"I am not mature, so my tail is not red yet.."

A Small Predator

One morning, a small bird was chased by an American Crow.   It turned out to be a falcon,  a Merlin.

"Get out of my territory.  Don't you dare kill my little friend."

"Ready to fight?"

This morning was quiet without a crow.

"Today is a better day for me."

Winter Scene#2

Last week the wetland  was flooded, but today the water has receded.  A couple of red camellias are in bloom.

An American Coot was busy diving to get the weeds for breakfast.

The Northern Pintails were paddling in the cold water.

At the far end of the reservoir, a dozen of Trumpeter's Swans were just waking up.  About 10 days ago, I saw them flying over my house, so I was hoping they would be here for a while.