It's been a rather exciting bird day at Sugar Creek today. Too bad I suck at nature photography. So all of these photos are linked to other websites.

( Telephoto lens and Birding binoculars - hint, hint dear :)

Our kitchen window overlooks the creek and pasture. This morning ny muscovy ducks were all out on the creek. I noticed a couple of ducks downstream, apart from the rest. And then realized that they weren't my ducks. I grabbed the binoculars and enjoyed a show of creek diving by male and female Common Mergansers.


(from the Birds of India website)

Standing alongside the creek was what I believe to be a Sandhill Crane. His back was to me so I couldn't see the telltale red patch on top of his head, but otherwise this is what he looked like.


(from the Montana Outdoors website)

Then as Rafe and I were driving out the driveway, a bird that had apparently been in the tree at the end of the driveway took flight right over my truck. At first I thought it was a hawk, but then realized it was much bigger. It's white tail and head gave away its identity as an adult Bald Eagle. They seem to always show up this time of year.


(from the Bird Guide website)

Quite a lot of excitement before 8:30 a.m.!