Bald Eagles at Buck Creek

On our drive through Buck Creek this morning, we saw two very large birds on the beach at CJ Brown Reservoir. They were adult bald eagles and appeared to be feasting on some washed ashore fish.
We weren’t able to approach close enough for good shots, but while crossing the dam a few minutes later, one of the birds crossed directly in front of us. David was able to grab a couple of shots with his handheld 300mm. I’m hoping that we’ll see some nest building next year….what a treat to see these birds in our area!

Oine Siskins and Ruddy Duck

Friday, I took a drive through CJ Brown, and encountered a flock of about 20 Pine Siskins. Lighting wasn’t optimal, but you can get the idea.

This morning, David & I headed on our usual route, and while driving through Old Reid, we saw this Ruddy Duck. I was driving, so David shot from the passenger window and did a good job of getting the fall foliage reflected in the pond.

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White Pelican

Saturday evening, David & I took a drive through Buck Creek State Park, and at the CJ Brown beach, we saw an American White Pelican. It was too far out for any photographs.
Sunday morning, David drove by the beach area on his way to the fairgrounds, and called to let me know that the pelican was on the beach at a fairly accessible location. I headed out, and was able to get a few shots before it headed out.

Over at Old Reid Park, I watched the Osprey fish and sun, and was able to catch a few shots as it flew by.

Dragons

Dragonflies are interesting photo subjects during these hot days….
These images were shot with a Canon 500 F4 lens, although I prefer using the 300 F4 or the Sigma 18mm. Due to the layout of the pond and the inability to get in close, the 500mm was the best choice.

Down to One....

One Red-Tailed Hawk chick has left the nest….the other one is practicing getting some lift.

Red-Tail Chicks

The Red-tailed hawks are getting closer to their exodus from the nest. I thought that they were gone when we stopped at the nest tonight, but just when we were getting ready to leave a head popped up and there they were!

 

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Cedar Waxwings

These are such elegant birds….with their black masks and their jauntily tipped headgear, they just exude class. I wondered how it was that they were named….until I had an opportunity to see one close-up. Here’s some pics from the Dayton KOA Kampgrounds. The red tips of their wings acually look like drops of candle wax….they are so aptly named!