This past Friday my good friend Art Nadelman and I got back out with our cameras again after a 3 month hiatus. Art’s arm has healed enough that he can carefully carry his equipment. We decided to visit the Celery Fields which is a favorite among local birders.
Over the course of a little more than 3 hours, we managed to see over 50 species of birds. We also had some good photo opportunities. One bird that is beginning to expand quickly across the region is the grey-headed swamphen. They’re related to coots and gallinules and have a lot of the beautiful blue colors of the male purple gallinule.
An uncommon bird that has returned for the winter is the bronzed cowbird. You would normally think of a cowbird as a rather ugly, nuisance bird but the adult male is striking. Its jet-black body is highlighted with areas of light blue above the shoulder. But the real distinguishing feature is its red eyes.
It was great to get back out again. Expect to see the posts pick up as the northern birds return for the winter.
More photos have been uploaded to the Other Water Birds gallery.
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