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Tuesday, January 1, 2013

New Visitors for the New Year

   One of Winter's highlights is the influx of migratory birds that come into the area for the season. Like old friends you haven't seen in ages, it always feels good to see them return. I've been looking for Hooded Mergansers during my walks along the river ever since the weather turned cold, and today I finally found them. They generally kept to the far shore while I was there, but I managed to get a few pictures of a couple of willing participants. Also joining in on the fun were three Wood Ducks. They generally live here year round but I haven't seen them regularly until recently and today they kindly cooperated with the camera, for a change. I consider Hoodies and Woodies the two most beautiful species of ducks to be found around here, but you can decide for yourself...


His Hood is relaxed a little here

Is this guy handsome, or what?

Not to be over shadowed, here's the male Wood Duck

A male and female Wood Duck hangin' with some Mallards

This guy wanted his picture taken too, so I obliged. 

*Happy New Year everyone!*
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14 comments:

  1. Ellen HoneycuttJanuary 1, 2013 at 4:55 PM

    Oh my - what clear, crisp and colorful pictures! These birds are indeed gorgeous. Even the camera hog at the end .... You have wonderful visitors for New Year's Day. Happy New Year to you and Jeff.

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  2. MaryJanuary 1, 2013 at 8:26 PM

    The Hooded Merganser is indeed magnificent! And the Wood Ducks. They're just exquisite. The male, (of course) is the more vibrant. LOL. I know that's aways the way. Bummer, that. But the female's colors are lovely too! Thanks for these. And a Happy New Year to you.

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    Replies
    1. Julie StoneJanuary 2, 2013 at 8:30 AM

      Yes, they are indeed exquisite! The males may get the prettiest colors, but when a predator is around, I'd be happy to be a drab female!

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  3. JasonJanuary 1, 2013 at 9:35 PM

    I love these. We used to have a pair of mallards nesting on top of the neighbor's garage, using their pool as a "lake." Happy new year to you as well.

    Jason

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    Replies
    1. Julie StoneJanuary 2, 2013 at 8:32 AM

      Oh Jason, that is too funny! That would be fun except for having to "clean up" after them.

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  4. MartyJanuary 2, 2013 at 7:53 AM

    Really like how the trash on the ground in the male woodie pic adds just a faint splash of complimentary color to the shot. Probably not intentional but a lot of the "magic" in photography is of the "happy accident" variety.

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    Replies
    1. Julie StoneJanuary 2, 2013 at 8:34 AM

      Unfortunately, there's a lot of trash around the river right now because it's been so windy. I may have to stage a pick up party.

      Delete
  5. KukkaiselämääJanuary 2, 2013 at 7:56 AM

    Such lovely birds and pictures, Julie. Those remind me of spring. We're in the middle of the winter right now.

    Happy New Year!

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    Replies
    1. Julie StoneJanuary 2, 2013 at 8:41 AM

      Thanks! Some days it feels like Spring. The pictures of your snow are lovely, I wish we had some.

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  6. MarnieJanuary 31, 2013 at 8:17 PM

    Sweet close-up

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  7. MarnieJanuary 31, 2013 at 8:20 PM

    Gorgeous birds, Julie. Love these shots.

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  8. ZielonaMilaMay 31, 2013 at 3:31 AM

    Wonderful photos, wonderful birds:) Greetings

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  9. Our photosNovember 6, 2013 at 11:20 PM

    You have make beautiful photos, Julie!
    Greetings, RW & SK

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