About April the White Pelicans began to arive in the area. The White Pelican is a majestic bird with a wingspan over 8 feet and a healthy appetite for small fish that they scoop up in the shallow water. In two powerful strokes and a pop of their wings they launch themselves into the air.

Watching pelicans feed is much like watching a ballet as they patrol an area for fish.

And sometimes they just plain gang-up on the fish!!!

Many people have asked me in the field what the name of this bird is, and are surprised when I tell them "a Yellow-headed Blackbird." I think some people don't believe me, but it's true. They also arrived early and began adding lots of music to the neighborhood.

 Sit and listen to the various calls. One to stake their territory, one to warn, and even gentle songs that sound like someone whistling.

And most of all they love to sit high on the trees and poles to keep watch.

Now why is this guy not named a "Blue-billed Duck"? He is known as a Ruddy Duck and there are about 4 familys here on the lake. They are pretty timid, but just be patient and you might get as lucky as I was to see them in their mating rituals.

In case you're wondering about the bubbles, he slaps his chest and water with his bill for the females and raises his tail proudly as part of the mating dance.

On this day the Ruddy's were tearing up the lake chasing each other. Three of the males were taking turns chasing each other and I was lucky enough to capture this rare event. The speed that they can reach over the water without flying is truly amazing.

The Black-crowned Night Heron is more patient than photographers. They will sit for VERY long spans of time and not move a muscle as they wait for a fish to come within range.

At last.. Dinner!!

One of my favorite birds to watch is also one of the most plain. I am fascinated by their colorful chicks and the antics that go on while both parents feed the kids. You are able to see the love, the bickering, and the discipline of a family unit as you watch them.

 Is it just me, or can you see the love this American Coot has for her chick? Baby seems pretty happy with mom too!!

Familys seem to have from 4 to 8 chicks in them here on the pond. Both parents take turns sitting on the nests and feeding the chicks once they are hatched.

The chicks lives change quickly and they are learning, resting, and exploring almost all at once. We call this one "Third Rock", because of the childhood memories of the long and dangerous swim to the third rock out on the river. WOW things are far when your 5!!

 Once in a while mom or dad just have to take a break and shake it all off. Diving for all of the food for endless hours a day just gets them soaked and they take a bit of time now and then to stop and dry off, cleanup, and no doubt wonder if they will make it through the day.

Who is that?

We had a single Mallard family here too, but a few days ago (July 12th) a new family arived!!

Just a parting thought!!