January 01, 2011

4th Annual Ridgefield Auto Tour

My friends and I like to visit Ridgefield NWR on New Year's Day. Today was a nice visit and we saw 30 species of birds, two coyote, and lots of nutria. It was a 30 degrees (brrrr), dry and mostly cloudy, but not too dark.





We had two cars and walkie-talkies to keep in touch about bird sightings. Laura and company were ahead of us, probably looking at the Red-tailed Hawk in the tree to their left.

Lots of Red-tailed Hawks were seen.


And it just wouldn't be Ridgefield without a Great Blue Heron. I like his reflection on the icy water.



A Kestral had a big meal. He flew right over my head and appeared to be having trouble gaining elevation with this large vole.

Nutria on ice.


Five Bald Eagles in a tree (one is a bit hidden by the tree trunk).

And he was on the road again. Every time I have been to Ridgefield in the last couple of months he has been in the road.


Look at all the cars. It was a busy day at the refuge. It's nice to see people want to start the year off with some nature and birding. Next time I'll show you a little bit more.


Past New Year's Trips to Ridgefield (or around New Year's):

2008

2009

2010 more and more

3 comments:

  1. Nice, I love that kestrel shot! I went up this morning and I swear that heron only stands in the road for YOU. And wow, five Bald Eagles! How cool!

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  2. Great blog! Your photography is wonderful. You would be invited to contribute to World Bird Wednesday a place for bird bloggers to share their experiences. Check it out at http://pineriverreview.blogspot.com/

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  3. Wow, amazing photos! I am so jealous. It's definitely time for me to get back out and do some bird watching!

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