https://www.ipernity.com/tag/293827/keyword/11255 https://cdn.ipernity.com/p/101/C3/7B/293827.buddy.jpg https://www.ipernity.com/tag/293827/keyword/11255 Tue, 18 Aug 2026 15:37:54 +0000 Tue, 18 Aug 2026 15:37:54 +0000 https://www.ipernity.com https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/49550112 tag:ipernity.com,2019-07-06,doc-49550112 Sat, 06 Jul 2019 17:36:45 +0000 2019-07-03T16:53:08-07:00 nobody@ipernity.com (Anne Elliott) <p class="who"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/home/293827">Anne Elliott</a> has posted:</p><p class="preview"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/49550112"><img src="https://cdn.ipernity.com/200/01/12/49550112.4b15d8dd.240.jpg?r2" width="240" height="180" alt=""/></a></p><div class="description">Saturday, 6 July 2019, 5:15 pm - here comes the rain and thunder. Our weather forecast for today, 6 July 2019, from the Weather Network: <br /> <br /> "A multi-day severe storm threat looms for the Prairies. This weekend is ripe with storm risk, with Saturday's thunderstorms set to fire for the afternoon and evening, along with some tornado chance on the table for southern Alberta -- something visitors to the Calgary Stampede should keep an eye on." <br /> <br /> This morning, 6 July 2019, I am posting 7 more photos taken three days ago, on a drive south to Frank Lake. Yet again, when I checked the weather forecast, it said continuing rain for day after day after day. However, the sun was shining when I decided to drive south. The clouds were sufficiently photogenic for me to change my plans and, instead of calling in at the Saskatoon Farm, I drove straight to the Lake.<br /> <br /> The previous time I was at Frank Lake, there was one Coot, two Canada Geese, and a Red-winged and a Yellow-headed Blackbird. Two days ago, it was so much better! The Barn Swallows were there, having built their nest a few feet away from their previous nest site. The Eared Grebes had their tiny, adorable babies, sometimes riding on their back, other times swimming separately. Same thing with the Coots - some had very young babies; others had somewhat older youngsters. One Coot adult and baby were walking in thick mud, searching for food. They both looked such a mess, as if they had rolled in the mud. A pair of Western Grebes could be seen far in the distance.<br /> <br /> "In the fall, almost the entire population of Eared Grebes flies to Mono Lake, California, or Great Salt Lake, Utah, to fatten up on brine shrimp and alkali flies before migrating farther south. Here they more than double their weight, and the sizes of their muscles and organs change. The pectoral (chest) muscles shrink to the point of flightlessness and the digestive organs grow significantly. Before departure for the wintering grounds, the process reverses; the digestive organs shrink back to about one-fourth their peak size, and the heart and pectoral muscles grow quickly to allow for flight." From AllAboutBirds.<br /> <br /> <a href="https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Eared_Grebe/overview" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Eared_Grebe/overview</a><br /> <br /> The sky began to change - the white clouds were taken over by rather menacing black ones and it became windy and the rain started. I really didn't want to drive back home on the very busy highway in pouring rain, but after waiting and hoping for it to end, I eventually had no choice but to risk it. As it turned out, there was hardly any traffic going north. <br /> <br /> It has been raining on and off for something like three weeks now, and everyone is tired of the rain. The famous 9-day Calgary Stampede runs from 5-14 July this year and rain during Stampede makes things so unpleasant! Judging by my Stampede photos posted on Flickr, I haven't been since 2013, when I went with my daughter - surely it hasn't been that long? I know I haven't been the last few years, as it was feeling just too much to deal with. Happy to be away from the huge masses of people and the sickening smell of grease, ha, ha! Of course, not going means not getting any mini-donuts, too. Happy Stampeding, everyone! May the sun shine ....</div> Eared Grebe & baby <p class="who"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/home/293827">Anne Elliott</a> has posted:</p><p class="preview"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/49550112"><img src="https://cdn.ipernity.com/200/01/12/49550112.4b15d8dd.240.jpg?r2" width="240" height="180" alt=""/></a></p><div class="description">Saturday, 6 July 2019, 5:15 pm - here comes the rain and thunder. Our weather forecast for today, 6 July 2019, from the Weather Network: <br /> <br /> "A multi-day severe storm threat looms for the Prairies. This weekend is ripe with storm risk, with Saturday's thunderstorms set to fire for the afternoon and evening, along with some tornado chance on the table for southern Alberta -- something visitors to the Calgary Stampede should keep an eye on." <br /> <br /> This morning, 6 July 2019, I am posting 7 more photos taken three days ago, on a drive south to Frank Lake. Yet again, when I checked the weather forecast, it said continuing rain for day after day after day. However, the sun was shining when I decided to drive south. The clouds were sufficiently photogenic for me to change my plans and, instead of calling in at the Saskatoon Farm, I drove straight to the Lake.<br /> <br /> The previous time I was at Frank Lake, there was one Coot, two Canada Geese, and a Red-winged and a Yellow-headed Blackbird. Two days ago, it was so much better! The Barn Swallows were there, having built their nest a few feet away from their previous nest site. The Eared Grebes had their tiny, adorable babies, sometimes riding on their back, other times swimming separately. Same thing with the Coots - some had very young babies; others had somewhat older youngsters. One Coot adult and baby were walking in thick mud, searching for food. They both looked such a mess, as if they had rolled in the mud. A pair of Western Grebes could be seen far in the distance.<br /> <br /> "In the fall, almost the entire population of Eared Grebes flies to Mono Lake, California, or Great Salt Lake, Utah, to fatten up on brine shrimp and alkali flies before migrating farther south. Here they more than double their weight, and the sizes of their muscles and organs change. The pectoral (chest) muscles shrink to the point of flightlessness and the digestive organs grow significantly. Before departure for the wintering grounds, the process reverses; the digestive organs shrink back to about one-fourth their peak size, and the heart and pectoral muscles grow quickly to allow for flight." From AllAboutBirds.<br /> <br /> <a href="https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Eared_Grebe/overview" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Eared_Grebe/overview</a><br /> <br /> The sky began to change - the white clouds were taken over by rather menacing black ones and it became windy and the rain started. I really didn't want to drive back home on the very busy highway in pouring rain, but after waiting and hoping for it to end, I eventually had no choice but to risk it. As it turned out, there was hardly any traffic going north. <br /> <br /> It has been raining on and off for something like three weeks now, and everyone is tired of the rain. The famous 9-day Calgary Stampede runs from 5-14 July this year and rain during Stampede makes things so unpleasant! Judging by my Stampede photos posted on Flickr, I haven't been since 2013, when I went with my daughter - surely it hasn't been that long? I know I haven't been the last few years, as it was feeling just too much to deal with. Happy to be away from the huge masses of people and the sickening smell of grease, ha, ha! Of course, not going means not getting any mini-donuts, too. Happy Stampeding, everyone! May the sun shine ....</div> Anne Elliott https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/49369668 tag:ipernity.com,2019-05-24,doc-49369668 Fri, 24 May 2019 06:50:29 +0000 2019-05-19T13:11:51-06:00 nobody@ipernity.com (Anne Elliott) <p class="who"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/home/293827">Anne Elliott</a> has posted:</p><p class="preview"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/49369668"><img src="https://cdn.ipernity.com/200/96/68/49369668.9f7f654a.240.jpg?r2" width="240" height="240" alt=""/></a></p><div class="description">Flickr's "Big Move" has been made today, 23 May 2019, and now various bits and pieces that need tweaking or fixing can be gradually worked out. Flickr/Smugmug staff must be exhausted! Hard to imagine moving billions of photos and so much data from Yahoo to Amazon. Thank you, everyone involved in working on this over the past year.<br /> <br /> I was determined to see if Uploader worked tonight. I had to try three or four times to post most of the 12 new photos, but eventually they all appeared. These images were all taken on 19 May 2019, when I spent the day with my daughter, to celebrate Mother's Day and yet another birthday for me. I always look forward to a day like this - my favourite way to spend a day! I hope she enjoyed it as much as I did. Unfortunately, the weather was cloudy and windy, especially when we went to Frank Lake after spending time at the Saskatoon Farm. We both still managed to get a few photos and, despite the weather.<br /> <br /> Our day started with a delicious breakfast at the Farm, after which we walked around the grounds. I always enjoy seeing the farm cats and dogs wandering about, inside and outside. Visitors are not allowed to bring dogs, which means that the farm animals can roam in peace. <br /> <br /> The gardens have not yet been planted with flowers - just as well, as I noticed that there was a risk of frost on two recent nights. There are flowers blooming in the greenhouses, though.<br /> <br /> Our next destination was Frank Lake, where we hoped to see at least a few birds. It was very quiet, with little to photograph - not the best time of the day. Two Eared Grebes were swimming near the blind, but what a challenge they were! Non stop swimming and constantly changing direction, fast. I think I ended up with a couple of photos that might be sharp enough to post - the rest have been deleted. A Yellow-headed Blackbird, perched on a cattail, was swaying in and out of the viewfinder.<br /> <br /> It felt really good to get out, as I have been spending so much time going through so many images from my trip to South Texas. It did feel a little strange to be driving, as I have barely been out the last few weeks.</div> Eared Grebe / Podiceps nigricollis <p class="who"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/home/293827">Anne Elliott</a> has posted:</p><p class="preview"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/49369668"><img src="https://cdn.ipernity.com/200/96/68/49369668.9f7f654a.240.jpg?r2" width="240" height="240" alt=""/></a></p><div class="description">Flickr's "Big Move" has been made today, 23 May 2019, and now various bits and pieces that need tweaking or fixing can be gradually worked out. Flickr/Smugmug staff must be exhausted! Hard to imagine moving billions of photos and so much data from Yahoo to Amazon. Thank you, everyone involved in working on this over the past year.<br /> <br /> I was determined to see if Uploader worked tonight. I had to try three or four times to post most of the 12 new photos, but eventually they all appeared. These images were all taken on 19 May 2019, when I spent the day with my daughter, to celebrate Mother's Day and yet another birthday for me. I always look forward to a day like this - my favourite way to spend a day! I hope she enjoyed it as much as I did. Unfortunately, the weather was cloudy and windy, especially when we went to Frank Lake after spending time at the Saskatoon Farm. We both still managed to get a few photos and, despite the weather.<br /> <br /> Our day started with a delicious breakfast at the Farm, after which we walked around the grounds. I always enjoy seeing the farm cats and dogs wandering about, inside and outside. Visitors are not allowed to bring dogs, which means that the farm animals can roam in peace. <br /> <br /> The gardens have not yet been planted with flowers - just as well, as I noticed that there was a risk of frost on two recent nights. There are flowers blooming in the greenhouses, though.<br /> <br /> Our next destination was Frank Lake, where we hoped to see at least a few birds. It was very quiet, with little to photograph - not the best time of the day. Two Eared Grebes were swimming near the blind, but what a challenge they were! Non stop swimming and constantly changing direction, fast. I think I ended up with a couple of photos that might be sharp enough to post - the rest have been deleted. A Yellow-headed Blackbird, perched on a cattail, was swaying in and out of the viewfinder.<br /> <br /> It felt really good to get out, as I have been spending so much time going through so many images from my trip to South Texas. It did feel a little strange to be driving, as I have barely been out the last few weeks.</div> Anne Elliott https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/47628484 tag:ipernity.com,2018-11-08,doc-47628484 Thu, 08 Nov 2018 16:22:24 +0000 2018-10-28T13:27:25-07:00 nobody@ipernity.com (Anne Elliott) <p class="who"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/home/293827">Anne Elliott</a> has posted:</p><p class="preview"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/47628484"><img src="https://cdn.ipernity.com/200/84/84/47628484.39b5d0a9.240.jpg?r2" width="240" height="180" alt=""/></a></p><div class="description">It is rarely that I get to see an American Dipper and especially this close, so I just wanted to add the somewhat better captures to my albums. Everyone found this encounter exciting, even more so as there were four of these birds hanging out together. <br /> <br /> Three of the photos posted this morning were taken on 28 October 2018, when a group of 15 of us went south of the city on a birding trip to one of my favourite areas. This included Chain Lakes and Pine Coulee Reservoir. I just love some of the landscape through which we drove - barren, rugged, middle-of-nowhere kind of scenery. It looks so different in each season - I think my favourite time of year is when there is a covering of snow on the empty hills and ice on most of the water. I've still not had the courage to drive in this area myself, as I know that I might never find my way out.<br /> <br /> As on almost all these day trips out of the city, almost every bird is far, far away, needing at least binoculars and best of all, a scope. Also, as always happens, my camera lens turns to things other than birds. Scenic shots are always taken - after all, I feel that it is important to record the habitat of any birds seen. <br /> <br /> We saw so many Swans (Tundra and Trumpeter) on various sloughs and in flight. What a sight they were, with the sun shining on their pure white feathers. Love to hear the Trumpeter Swans "trumpeting". A huge thrill was when our leader led us to a small creek where there were four American Dippers, happily bobbing and dipping, and swimming under water. They weren't bothered by our presence at all. The water colours and patterns were beautiful, too.<br /> <br /> "The American dipper (Cinclus mexicanus), also known as a water ouzel, is a stocky dark grey bird with a head sometimes tinged with brown, and white feathers on the eyelids that cause the eyes to flash white as the bird blinks. It is 16.5 cm long and weighs on average 46 g. It has long legs, and bobs its whole body up and down during pauses as it feeds on the bottom of fast-moving, rocky streams. It inhabits the mountainous regions of Central America and western North America from Panama to Alaska.<br /> <br /> This species, like other dippers, is equipped with an extra eyelid called a "nictitating membrane" that allows it to see underwater, and scales that close its nostrils when submerged. Dippers also produce more oil than most birds, which may help keep them warmer when seeking food underwater." From Wikipedia.<br /> <br /> Terry, you took us on yet another amazing trip! You even arranged with the weatherman for a beautiful, sunny day, though the morning was very cold and windy. It couldn't have been a better outing - so very enjoyable. Thanks so much, Linda and Robin, for the ride all day - greatly appreciated!<br /> <br /> I was off my computer all day the next day, too. My daughter came down for the day, as she had offered to come and help me with sorting through some things and getting rid of all my old electronics at recycle places. It saved me a whole lot of bending (which kills my back) and a lot of lifting. Her help was hugely appreciated!</div> Yes, it&#039;s the American Dipper again <p class="who"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/home/293827">Anne Elliott</a> has posted:</p><p class="preview"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/47628484"><img src="https://cdn.ipernity.com/200/84/84/47628484.39b5d0a9.240.jpg?r2" width="240" height="180" alt=""/></a></p><div class="description">It is rarely that I get to see an American Dipper and especially this close, so I just wanted to add the somewhat better captures to my albums. Everyone found this encounter exciting, even more so as there were four of these birds hanging out together. <br /> <br /> Three of the photos posted this morning were taken on 28 October 2018, when a group of 15 of us went south of the city on a birding trip to one of my favourite areas. This included Chain Lakes and Pine Coulee Reservoir. I just love some of the landscape through which we drove - barren, rugged, middle-of-nowhere kind of scenery. It looks so different in each season - I think my favourite time of year is when there is a covering of snow on the empty hills and ice on most of the water. I've still not had the courage to drive in this area myself, as I know that I might never find my way out.<br /> <br /> As on almost all these day trips out of the city, almost every bird is far, far away, needing at least binoculars and best of all, a scope. Also, as always happens, my camera lens turns to things other than birds. Scenic shots are always taken - after all, I feel that it is important to record the habitat of any birds seen. <br /> <br /> We saw so many Swans (Tundra and Trumpeter) on various sloughs and in flight. What a sight they were, with the sun shining on their pure white feathers. Love to hear the Trumpeter Swans "trumpeting". A huge thrill was when our leader led us to a small creek where there were four American Dippers, happily bobbing and dipping, and swimming under water. They weren't bothered by our presence at all. The water colours and patterns were beautiful, too.<br /> <br /> "The American dipper (Cinclus mexicanus), also known as a water ouzel, is a stocky dark grey bird with a head sometimes tinged with brown, and white feathers on the eyelids that cause the eyes to flash white as the bird blinks. It is 16.5 cm long and weighs on average 46 g. It has long legs, and bobs its whole body up and down during pauses as it feeds on the bottom of fast-moving, rocky streams. It inhabits the mountainous regions of Central America and western North America from Panama to Alaska.<br /> <br /> This species, like other dippers, is equipped with an extra eyelid called a "nictitating membrane" that allows it to see underwater, and scales that close its nostrils when submerged. Dippers also produce more oil than most birds, which may help keep them warmer when seeking food underwater." From Wikipedia.<br /> <br /> Terry, you took us on yet another amazing trip! You even arranged with the weatherman for a beautiful, sunny day, though the morning was very cold and windy. It couldn't have been a better outing - so very enjoyable. Thanks so much, Linda and Robin, for the ride all day - greatly appreciated!<br /> <br /> I was off my computer all day the next day, too. My daughter came down for the day, as she had offered to come and help me with sorting through some things and getting rid of all my old electronics at recycle places. It saved me a whole lot of bending (which kills my back) and a lot of lifting. Her help was hugely appreciated!</div> Anne Elliott https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/47614568 tag:ipernity.com,2018-11-05,doc-47614568 Mon, 05 Nov 2018 16:28:05 +0000 2018-10-28T13:24:12-07:00 nobody@ipernity.com (Anne Elliott) <p class="who"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/home/293827">Anne Elliott</a> has posted:</p><p class="preview"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/47614568"><img src="https://cdn.ipernity.com/200/45/68/47614568.34fe2035.240.jpg?r2" width="240" height="180" alt=""/></a></p><div class="description">I have just noticed our temperature this morning, 5 November 2018, -6C (windchill -13C) with a few snow flurries expected.<br /> <br /> All five photos posted this morning were taken on 28 October 2018, when a group of 15 of us went S of the city on a birding trip to one of my favourite areas. This included Chain Lakes and Pine Coulee Reservoir. I just love some of the landscape through which we drove - barren, rugged, middle-of-nowhere kind of scenery. It looks so different in each season - I think my favourite time of year is when there is a covering of snow on the empty hills and ice on most of the water. I've still not had the courage to drive in this area myself, as I know that I might never find my way out.<br /> <br /> As on almost all these day trips out of the city, almost every bird is far, far away, needing at least binoculars and best of all, a scope. Also, as always happens, my camera lens turns to things other than birds. Scenic shots are always taken - after all, I feel that it is important to record the habitat of any birds seen. <br /> <br /> We saw so many Swans (Tundra and Trumpeter) on various sloughs and in flight. What a sight they were, with the sun shining on their pure white feathers. Love to hear the Trumpeter Swans "trumpeting". A huge thrill was when our leader led us to a small creek where there were four American Dippers, happily bobbing and dipping, and swimming under water. They weren't bothered by our presence at all. The water colours and patterns were beautiful, too.<br /> <br /> "The American dipper (Cinclus mexicanus), also known as a water ouzel, is a stocky dark grey bird with a head sometimes tinged with brown, and white feathers on the eyelids that cause the eyes to flash white as the bird blinks. It is 16.5 cm long and weighs on average 46 g. It has long legs, and bobs its whole body up and down during pauses as it feeds on the bottom of fast-moving, rocky streams. It inhabits the mountainous regions of Central America and western North America from Panama to Alaska.<br /> <br /> This species, like other dippers, is equipped with an extra eyelid called a "nictitating membrane" that allows it to see underwater, and scales that close its nostrils when submerged. Dippers also produce more oil than most birds, which may help keep them warmer when seeking food underwater." From Wikipedia.<br /> <br /> Terry, you took us on yet another amazing trip! You even arranged with the weatherman for a beautiful, sunny day, though the morning was very cold and windy. It couldn't have been a better outing - so very enjoyable. Thanks so much, Linda and Robin, for the ride all day - greatly appreciated!<br /> <br /> I was off my computer all day the next day, too. My daughter came down for the day, as she had offered to come and help me with sorting through some things and getting rid of all my old electronics at recycle places. It saved me a whole lot of bending (which kills my back) and a lot of lifting. Her help was hugely appreciated!</div> American Dipper <p class="who"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/home/293827">Anne Elliott</a> has posted:</p><p class="preview"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/47614568"><img src="https://cdn.ipernity.com/200/45/68/47614568.34fe2035.240.jpg?r2" width="240" height="180" alt=""/></a></p><div class="description">I have just noticed our temperature this morning, 5 November 2018, -6C (windchill -13C) with a few snow flurries expected.<br /> <br /> All five photos posted this morning were taken on 28 October 2018, when a group of 15 of us went S of the city on a birding trip to one of my favourite areas. This included Chain Lakes and Pine Coulee Reservoir. I just love some of the landscape through which we drove - barren, rugged, middle-of-nowhere kind of scenery. It looks so different in each season - I think my favourite time of year is when there is a covering of snow on the empty hills and ice on most of the water. I've still not had the courage to drive in this area myself, as I know that I might never find my way out.<br /> <br /> As on almost all these day trips out of the city, almost every bird is far, far away, needing at least binoculars and best of all, a scope. Also, as always happens, my camera lens turns to things other than birds. Scenic shots are always taken - after all, I feel that it is important to record the habitat of any birds seen. <br /> <br /> We saw so many Swans (Tundra and Trumpeter) on various sloughs and in flight. What a sight they were, with the sun shining on their pure white feathers. Love to hear the Trumpeter Swans "trumpeting". A huge thrill was when our leader led us to a small creek where there were four American Dippers, happily bobbing and dipping, and swimming under water. They weren't bothered by our presence at all. The water colours and patterns were beautiful, too.<br /> <br /> "The American dipper (Cinclus mexicanus), also known as a water ouzel, is a stocky dark grey bird with a head sometimes tinged with brown, and white feathers on the eyelids that cause the eyes to flash white as the bird blinks. It is 16.5 cm long and weighs on average 46 g. It has long legs, and bobs its whole body up and down during pauses as it feeds on the bottom of fast-moving, rocky streams. It inhabits the mountainous regions of Central America and western North America from Panama to Alaska.<br /> <br /> This species, like other dippers, is equipped with an extra eyelid called a "nictitating membrane" that allows it to see underwater, and scales that close its nostrils when submerged. Dippers also produce more oil than most birds, which may help keep them warmer when seeking food underwater." From Wikipedia.<br /> <br /> Terry, you took us on yet another amazing trip! You even arranged with the weatherman for a beautiful, sunny day, though the morning was very cold and windy. It couldn't have been a better outing - so very enjoyable. Thanks so much, Linda and Robin, for the ride all day - greatly appreciated!<br /> <br /> I was off my computer all day the next day, too. My daughter came down for the day, as she had offered to come and help me with sorting through some things and getting rid of all my old electronics at recycle places. It saved me a whole lot of bending (which kills my back) and a lot of lifting. Her help was hugely appreciated!</div> Anne Elliott https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/47614444 tag:ipernity.com,2018-11-05,doc-47614444 Mon, 05 Nov 2018 16:25:41 +0000 2018-10-28T13:26:20-07:00 nobody@ipernity.com (Anne Elliott) <p class="who"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/home/293827">Anne Elliott</a> has posted:</p><p class="preview"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/47614444"><img src="https://cdn.ipernity.com/200/44/44/47614444.8f6c7ef9.240.jpg?r2" width="240" height="240" alt=""/></a></p><div class="description">All five photos posted this morning were taken on 28 October 2018, when a group of 15 of us went S of the city on a birding trip to one of my favourite areas. This included Chain Lakes and Pine Coulee Reservoir. I just love some of the landscape through which we drove - barren, rugged, middle-of-nowhere kind of scenery. It looks so different in each season - I think my favourite time of year is when there is a covering of snow on the empty hills and ice on most of the water. I've still not had the courage to drive in this area myself, as I know that I might never find my way out.<br /> <br /> As on almost all these day trips out of the city, almost every bird is far, far away, needing at least binoculars and best of all, a scope. Also, as always happens, my camera lens turns to things other than birds. Scenic shots are always taken - after all, I feel that it is important to record the habitat of any birds seen. <br /> <br /> We saw so many Swans (Tundra and Trumpeter) on various sloughs and in flight. What a sight they were, with the sun shining on their pure white feathers. Love to hear the Trumpeter Swans "trumpeting". A huge thrill was when our leader led us to a small creek where there were four American Dippers, happily bobbing and dipping, and swimming under water. They weren't bothered by our presence at all. The water colours and patterns were beautiful, too.<br /> <br /> "The American dipper (Cinclus mexicanus), also known as a water ouzel, is a stocky dark grey bird with a head sometimes tinged with brown, and white feathers on the eyelids that cause the eyes to flash white as the bird blinks. It is 16.5 cm long and weighs on average 46 g. It has long legs, and bobs its whole body up and down during pauses as it feeds on the bottom of fast-moving, rocky streams. It inhabits the mountainous regions of Central America and western North America from Panama to Alaska.<br /> <br /> This species, like other dippers, is equipped with an extra eyelid called a "nictitating membrane" that allows it to see underwater, and scales that close its nostrils when submerged. Dippers also produce more oil than most birds, which may help keep them warmer when seeking food underwater." From Wikipedia.<br /> <br /> Terry, you took us on yet another amazing trip! You even arranged with the weatherman for a beautiful, sunny day, though the morning was very cold and windy. It couldn't have been a better outing - so very enjoyable. Thanks so much, Linda and Robin, for the ride all day - greatly appreciated!<br /> <br /> I was off my computer all day the next day, too. My daughter came down for the day, as she had offered to come and help me with sorting through some things and getting rid of all my old electronics at recycle places. It saved me a whole lot of bending (which kills my back) and a lot of lifting. Her help was hugely appreciated!</div> American Dipper dipping <p class="who"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/home/293827">Anne Elliott</a> has posted:</p><p class="preview"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/47614444"><img src="https://cdn.ipernity.com/200/44/44/47614444.8f6c7ef9.240.jpg?r2" width="240" height="240" alt=""/></a></p><div class="description">All five photos posted this morning were taken on 28 October 2018, when a group of 15 of us went S of the city on a birding trip to one of my favourite areas. This included Chain Lakes and Pine Coulee Reservoir. I just love some of the landscape through which we drove - barren, rugged, middle-of-nowhere kind of scenery. It looks so different in each season - I think my favourite time of year is when there is a covering of snow on the empty hills and ice on most of the water. I've still not had the courage to drive in this area myself, as I know that I might never find my way out.<br /> <br /> As on almost all these day trips out of the city, almost every bird is far, far away, needing at least binoculars and best of all, a scope. Also, as always happens, my camera lens turns to things other than birds. Scenic shots are always taken - after all, I feel that it is important to record the habitat of any birds seen. <br /> <br /> We saw so many Swans (Tundra and Trumpeter) on various sloughs and in flight. What a sight they were, with the sun shining on their pure white feathers. Love to hear the Trumpeter Swans "trumpeting". A huge thrill was when our leader led us to a small creek where there were four American Dippers, happily bobbing and dipping, and swimming under water. They weren't bothered by our presence at all. The water colours and patterns were beautiful, too.<br /> <br /> "The American dipper (Cinclus mexicanus), also known as a water ouzel, is a stocky dark grey bird with a head sometimes tinged with brown, and white feathers on the eyelids that cause the eyes to flash white as the bird blinks. It is 16.5 cm long and weighs on average 46 g. It has long legs, and bobs its whole body up and down during pauses as it feeds on the bottom of fast-moving, rocky streams. It inhabits the mountainous regions of Central America and western North America from Panama to Alaska.<br /> <br /> This species, like other dippers, is equipped with an extra eyelid called a "nictitating membrane" that allows it to see underwater, and scales that close its nostrils when submerged. Dippers also produce more oil than most birds, which may help keep them warmer when seeking food underwater." From Wikipedia.<br /> <br /> Terry, you took us on yet another amazing trip! You even arranged with the weatherman for a beautiful, sunny day, though the morning was very cold and windy. It couldn't have been a better outing - so very enjoyable. Thanks so much, Linda and Robin, for the ride all day - greatly appreciated!<br /> <br /> I was off my computer all day the next day, too. My daughter came down for the day, as she had offered to come and help me with sorting through some things and getting rid of all my old electronics at recycle places. It saved me a whole lot of bending (which kills my back) and a lot of lifting. Her help was hugely appreciated!</div> Anne Elliott https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/47581538 tag:ipernity.com,2018-11-02,doc-47581538 Fri, 02 Nov 2018 13:52:11 +0000 2018-10-25T14:46:49-06:00 nobody@ipernity.com (Anne Elliott) <p class="who"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/home/293827">Anne Elliott</a> has posted:</p><p class="preview"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/47581538"><img src="https://cdn.ipernity.com/200/15/38/47581538.4be39e1d.240.jpg?r2" width="240" height="180" alt=""/></a></p><div class="description">On 25 October 2018, I dashed down to a place that I had been curious about for the last few years. Every time I drove the highway, I would pass a sign that said Kayben Farms. My daughter had posted photos from a visit there with friends a while ago and there were a few things that I wanted to see sometime. A spur-of-the-moment visit gave me the chance to do so. Actually, I suspect it may also have been a delaying tactic for all the endless things that I knew I should be seeing to.<br /> <br /> There were a few sheds/barns scattered around the grounds. Most were a pretty basic, simple shape and not old. However, I loved one little barn and absolutely loved the wonderfully bright and colourful door of two other buildings. The one barn had an assortment of ducks, chickens, pigs - and a rabbit that I only noticed when I was editing the image. There were several different kinds of domestic duck and two in particular caught my eye. A female domestic Turkey had two babies, one black and the other was a tan colour, and what a good mother she was. <br /> <br /> Wandering near the corn maze - now closed till next year - I came across a dead Sunflower hanging its head. One of my favourite things to photograph, at any stage of their life. As for a corn maze, nothing would make me enter .... nothing, unless the corn plants were no higher than my waist and if I was with someone who has an excellent sense of direction!<br /> <br /> Various pieces of old farm equipment dotted the area. I always enjoy coming across such things on any of my travels.<br /> <br /> In a nearby area, there was a variety of farm animals, including a very cute pig that was fast asleep and snoring loudly, and horses, sheep and goats were entertaining. All made for a very pleasant visit, just in time before the farm closed to the public for the winter season.</div> Unidentified domestic Duck <p class="who"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/home/293827">Anne Elliott</a> has posted:</p><p class="preview"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/47581538"><img src="https://cdn.ipernity.com/200/15/38/47581538.4be39e1d.240.jpg?r2" width="240" height="180" alt=""/></a></p><div class="description">On 25 October 2018, I dashed down to a place that I had been curious about for the last few years. Every time I drove the highway, I would pass a sign that said Kayben Farms. My daughter had posted photos from a visit there with friends a while ago and there were a few things that I wanted to see sometime. A spur-of-the-moment visit gave me the chance to do so. Actually, I suspect it may also have been a delaying tactic for all the endless things that I knew I should be seeing to.<br /> <br /> There were a few sheds/barns scattered around the grounds. Most were a pretty basic, simple shape and not old. However, I loved one little barn and absolutely loved the wonderfully bright and colourful door of two other buildings. The one barn had an assortment of ducks, chickens, pigs - and a rabbit that I only noticed when I was editing the image. There were several different kinds of domestic duck and two in particular caught my eye. A female domestic Turkey had two babies, one black and the other was a tan colour, and what a good mother she was. <br /> <br /> Wandering near the corn maze - now closed till next year - I came across a dead Sunflower hanging its head. One of my favourite things to photograph, at any stage of their life. As for a corn maze, nothing would make me enter .... nothing, unless the corn plants were no higher than my waist and if I was with someone who has an excellent sense of direction!<br /> <br /> Various pieces of old farm equipment dotted the area. I always enjoy coming across such things on any of my travels.<br /> <br /> In a nearby area, there was a variety of farm animals, including a very cute pig that was fast asleep and snoring loudly, and horses, sheep and goats were entertaining. All made for a very pleasant visit, just in time before the farm closed to the public for the winter season.</div> Anne Elliott https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/47561178 tag:ipernity.com,2018-10-30,doc-47561178 Tue, 30 Oct 2018 16:05:24 +0000 2018-10-28T13:27:23-06:00 nobody@ipernity.com (Anne Elliott) <p class="who"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/home/293827">Anne Elliott</a> has posted:</p><p class="preview"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/47561178"><img src="https://cdn.ipernity.com/200/11/78/47561178.5b77f4f8.240.jpg?r2" width="240" height="180" alt=""/></a></p><div class="description">All three photos posted this morning were taken the day before yesterday, on 28 October 2018. A group of 15 of us went S of the city on a birding trip to one of my favourite areas. This included Chain Lakes and Pine Coulee Reservoir. I just love some of the landscape through which we drove - barren, rugged, middle-of-nowhere kind of scenery. It looks so different in each season - I think my favourite time of year is when there is a covering of snow on the empty hills and ice on most of the water. I've still not had the courage to drive in this area myself, as I know that I might never find my way out.<br /> <br /> As on almost all these day trips out of the city, almost every bird is far, far away, needing at least binoculars and best of all, a scope. Also, as always happens, my camera lens turns to things other than birds. Scenic shots are always taken - after all, I feel that it is important to record the habitat of any birds seen. <br /> <br /> We saw so many Swans (Tundra and Trumpeter) on various sloughs and in flight. What a sight they were, with the sun shining on their pure white feathers. Love to hear the Trumpeter Swans "trumpeting". A huge thrill was when our leader led us to a small creek where there were four American Diippers, happily bobbing and dipping, and swimming under water. They weren't bothered by our presence at all.<br /> <br /> "The American dipper (Cinclus mexicanus), also known as a water ouzel, is a stocky dark grey bird with a head sometimes tinged with brown, and white feathers on the eyelids that cause the eyes to flash white as the bird blinks. It is 16.5 cm long and weighs on average 46 g. It has long legs, and bobs its whole body up and down during pauses as it feeds on the bottom of fast-moving, rocky streams. It inhabits the mountainous regions of Central America and western North America from Panama to Alaska.<br /> <br /> This species, like other dippers, is equipped with an extra eyelid called a "nictitating membrane" that allows it to see underwater, and scales that close its nostrils when submerged. Dippers also produce more oil than most birds, which may help keep them warmer when seeking food underwater." From Wikipedia.<br /> <br /> Terry, you took us on yet another amazing trip! You even arranged with the weatherman for a beautiful, sunny day, though the morning was very cold and windy. It couldn't have been a better outing - so very enjoyable. Thanks so much, Linda and Robin, for the ride all day - greatly appreciated!<br /> <br /> I was off my computer all day yesterday, too. My daughter came down for the day, as she had offered to come and help me with sorting through some things and getting rid of all my old electronics at recycle places. It saved me a whole lot of bending (which kills my back) and a lot of lifting. Her help was hugely appreciated!<br /> <br /> Last night was supposed to be THE night, ha, ha! I was going to set two or three mouse traps (which is how I started out about 6 months ago, but I caught nothing). However, do you think I could set the traps? No, I just could not see how to set them. After talking to a friend on the phone this morning, he helped me and I got the first trap in place. Two minutes later, as I was just going upstairs, I heard a loud snap. Have not had the courage yet to peer round my fridge to see if the trap went off by itself or if there is one dead mouse. If it was successful, which I doubt, friends will come over later today to remove it for me!!</div> American Dipper / Cinclus mexicanus <p class="who"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/home/293827">Anne Elliott</a> has posted:</p><p class="preview"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/47561178"><img src="https://cdn.ipernity.com/200/11/78/47561178.5b77f4f8.240.jpg?r2" width="240" height="180" alt=""/></a></p><div class="description">All three photos posted this morning were taken the day before yesterday, on 28 October 2018. A group of 15 of us went S of the city on a birding trip to one of my favourite areas. This included Chain Lakes and Pine Coulee Reservoir. I just love some of the landscape through which we drove - barren, rugged, middle-of-nowhere kind of scenery. It looks so different in each season - I think my favourite time of year is when there is a covering of snow on the empty hills and ice on most of the water. I've still not had the courage to drive in this area myself, as I know that I might never find my way out.<br /> <br /> As on almost all these day trips out of the city, almost every bird is far, far away, needing at least binoculars and best of all, a scope. Also, as always happens, my camera lens turns to things other than birds. Scenic shots are always taken - after all, I feel that it is important to record the habitat of any birds seen. <br /> <br /> We saw so many Swans (Tundra and Trumpeter) on various sloughs and in flight. What a sight they were, with the sun shining on their pure white feathers. Love to hear the Trumpeter Swans "trumpeting". A huge thrill was when our leader led us to a small creek where there were four American Diippers, happily bobbing and dipping, and swimming under water. They weren't bothered by our presence at all.<br /> <br /> "The American dipper (Cinclus mexicanus), also known as a water ouzel, is a stocky dark grey bird with a head sometimes tinged with brown, and white feathers on the eyelids that cause the eyes to flash white as the bird blinks. It is 16.5 cm long and weighs on average 46 g. It has long legs, and bobs its whole body up and down during pauses as it feeds on the bottom of fast-moving, rocky streams. It inhabits the mountainous regions of Central America and western North America from Panama to Alaska.<br /> <br /> This species, like other dippers, is equipped with an extra eyelid called a "nictitating membrane" that allows it to see underwater, and scales that close its nostrils when submerged. Dippers also produce more oil than most birds, which may help keep them warmer when seeking food underwater." From Wikipedia.<br /> <br /> Terry, you took us on yet another amazing trip! You even arranged with the weatherman for a beautiful, sunny day, though the morning was very cold and windy. It couldn't have been a better outing - so very enjoyable. Thanks so much, Linda and Robin, for the ride all day - greatly appreciated!<br /> <br /> I was off my computer all day yesterday, too. My daughter came down for the day, as she had offered to come and help me with sorting through some things and getting rid of all my old electronics at recycle places. It saved me a whole lot of bending (which kills my back) and a lot of lifting. Her help was hugely appreciated!<br /> <br /> Last night was supposed to be THE night, ha, ha! I was going to set two or three mouse traps (which is how I started out about 6 months ago, but I caught nothing). However, do you think I could set the traps? No, I just could not see how to set them. After talking to a friend on the phone this morning, he helped me and I got the first trap in place. Two minutes later, as I was just going upstairs, I heard a loud snap. Have not had the courage yet to peer round my fridge to see if the trap went off by itself or if there is one dead mouse. If it was successful, which I doubt, friends will come over later today to remove it for me!!</div> Anne Elliott https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/47560928 tag:ipernity.com,2018-10-29,doc-47560928 Mon, 29 Oct 2018 13:18:31 +0000 2018-10-28T13:27:31-06:00 nobody@ipernity.com (Anne Elliott) <p class="who"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/home/293827">Anne Elliott</a> has posted:</p><p class="preview"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/47560928"><img src="https://cdn.ipernity.com/200/09/28/47560928.7ed2e765.240.jpg?r2" width="240" height="180" alt=""/></a></p><div class="description">All three photos posted this morning were taken yesterday, 28 October 2018. A group of 15 of us went S and SE of the city on a birding trip to one of my favourite areas. This included Chain Lakes and Pine Coulee Reservoir. I just love some of the landscape through which we drove - barren, rugged, middle-of-nowhere kind of scenery. It looks so different in each season - I think my favourite time of year is when there is a covering of snow on the empty hills and ice on most of the water. I've still not had the courage to drive in this area myself, as I know that I might never find my way out.<br /> <br /> As on almost all these day trips out of the city, almost every bird is far, far away, needing at least binoculars and best of all, a scope. Also, as always happens, my camera lens turns to things other than birds. Scenic shots are always taken - after all, I feel that it is important to record the habitat of any birds seen. <br /> <br /> We saw so many Swans (Tundra and Trumpeter) on various sloughs and in flight. What a sight they were, with the sun shining on their pure white feathers. Love to hear the Trumpeter Swans "trumpeting". A huge thrill was when our leader led us to a small creek where there were four American Diippers, happily bobbing and dipping, and swimming under water. They weren't bothered by our presence at all.<br /> <br /> "The American dipper (Cinclus mexicanus), also known as a water ouzel, is a stocky dark grey bird with a head sometimes tinged with brown, and white feathers on the eyelids that cause the eyes to flash white as the bird blinks. It is 16.5 cm long and weighs on average 46 g. It has long legs, and bobs its whole body up and down during pauses as it feeds on the bottom of fast-moving, rocky streams. It inhabits the mountainous regions of Central America and western North America from Panama to Alaska.<br /> <br /> This species, like other dippers, is equipped with an extra eyelid called a "nictitating membrane" that allows it to see underwater, and scales that close its nostrils when submerged. Dippers also produce more oil than most birds, which may help keep them warmer when seeking food underwater." From Wikipedia.<br /> <br /> Terry, you took us on yet another amazing trip! You even arranged with the weatherman for a beautiful, sunny day, though the morning was cold and it was very windy all day. It couldn't have been a better outing - so very enjoyable. Thanks so much, Linda and Robin, for the ride all day - greatly appreciated!<br /> <br /> I have been off my computer all day today, too. My daughter came down for the day, as she had offered to come and help me with sorting through some things and getting rid of all my old electronics at recycle places. It saved me a whole lot of bending (which kills my back) and a lot of lifting. Her help was hugely appreciated!<br /> <br /> Tonight is THE night, ha, ha! I am going to set two or three mouse traps (which is how I started out about 6 months ago, but I caught nothing). I absolutely dread going downstairs tomorrow morning, in case the traps have caught something. If they were successful, friends are coming over straight away to remove it/them for me!! I just hope I don't hear the snap of a trap or any squealing!!!</div> American Dipper / Cinclus mexicanus <p class="who"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/home/293827">Anne Elliott</a> has posted:</p><p class="preview"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/47560928"><img src="https://cdn.ipernity.com/200/09/28/47560928.7ed2e765.240.jpg?r2" width="240" height="180" alt=""/></a></p><div class="description">All three photos posted this morning were taken yesterday, 28 October 2018. A group of 15 of us went S and SE of the city on a birding trip to one of my favourite areas. This included Chain Lakes and Pine Coulee Reservoir. I just love some of the landscape through which we drove - barren, rugged, middle-of-nowhere kind of scenery. It looks so different in each season - I think my favourite time of year is when there is a covering of snow on the empty hills and ice on most of the water. I've still not had the courage to drive in this area myself, as I know that I might never find my way out.<br /> <br /> As on almost all these day trips out of the city, almost every bird is far, far away, needing at least binoculars and best of all, a scope. Also, as always happens, my camera lens turns to things other than birds. Scenic shots are always taken - after all, I feel that it is important to record the habitat of any birds seen. <br /> <br /> We saw so many Swans (Tundra and Trumpeter) on various sloughs and in flight. What a sight they were, with the sun shining on their pure white feathers. Love to hear the Trumpeter Swans "trumpeting". A huge thrill was when our leader led us to a small creek where there were four American Diippers, happily bobbing and dipping, and swimming under water. They weren't bothered by our presence at all.<br /> <br /> "The American dipper (Cinclus mexicanus), also known as a water ouzel, is a stocky dark grey bird with a head sometimes tinged with brown, and white feathers on the eyelids that cause the eyes to flash white as the bird blinks. It is 16.5 cm long and weighs on average 46 g. It has long legs, and bobs its whole body up and down during pauses as it feeds on the bottom of fast-moving, rocky streams. It inhabits the mountainous regions of Central America and western North America from Panama to Alaska.<br /> <br /> This species, like other dippers, is equipped with an extra eyelid called a "nictitating membrane" that allows it to see underwater, and scales that close its nostrils when submerged. Dippers also produce more oil than most birds, which may help keep them warmer when seeking food underwater." From Wikipedia.<br /> <br /> Terry, you took us on yet another amazing trip! You even arranged with the weatherman for a beautiful, sunny day, though the morning was cold and it was very windy all day. It couldn't have been a better outing - so very enjoyable. Thanks so much, Linda and Robin, for the ride all day - greatly appreciated!<br /> <br /> I have been off my computer all day today, too. My daughter came down for the day, as she had offered to come and help me with sorting through some things and getting rid of all my old electronics at recycle places. It saved me a whole lot of bending (which kills my back) and a lot of lifting. Her help was hugely appreciated!<br /> <br /> Tonight is THE night, ha, ha! I am going to set two or three mouse traps (which is how I started out about 6 months ago, but I caught nothing). I absolutely dread going downstairs tomorrow morning, in case the traps have caught something. If they were successful, friends are coming over straight away to remove it/them for me!! I just hope I don't hear the snap of a trap or any squealing!!!</div> Anne Elliott https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/47541014 tag:ipernity.com,2018-10-27,doc-47541014 Sat, 27 Oct 2018 16:22:03 +0000 2018-10-25T14:47:24-06:00 nobody@ipernity.com (Anne Elliott) <p class="who"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/home/293827">Anne Elliott</a> has posted:</p><p class="preview"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/47541014"><img src="https://cdn.ipernity.com/200/10/14/47541014.3538c78a.240.jpg?r2" width="240" height="180" alt=""/></a></p><div class="description">Two afternoons ago, on 25 October 2018, I dashed down to a place that I had been curious about for the last few years. Every time I drove the highway, I would pass a sign that said Kayben Farms. My daughter had posted photos from a visit there with friends a while ago and there were a few things that I wanted to see sometime. A spur-of-the-moment visit yesterday gave me the chance to do so. Actually, I suspect it may also have been a delaying tactic for all the endless things that I knew I should be seeing to.<br /> <br /> There were a few sheds/barns scattered around the grounds. Most were a pretty basic, simple shape and not old. However, I absolutely loved the wonderfully bright and colourful door of two of the buildings. <br /> <br /> Wandering near the corn maze - now closed till next year - I came across a beautiful dead Sunflower hanging its head. One of my favourite things to photograph, at any stage of their life. As for a corn maze, nothing would make me enter .... nothing, unless the corn plants were no higher than my waist and if I was with someone who has an excellent sense of direction!<br /> <br /> Various pieces of old farm equipment dotted the area. I always enjoy coming across such things on any of my travels.<br /> <br /> There were several different kinds of domestic duck and two in particular caught my eye. The one in this photo was quite beautiful, but moved constantly and fast. Looked quite an elongated duck. A female domestic Turkey had two babies, one black and the other was a tan colour, and what a good mother she was. A variety of farm animals, incluing a large Pot-bellied (?) Pig that was fast asleep and snoring loudly, made for a very pleasant visit.</div> Domestic duck, unidentified <p class="who"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/home/293827">Anne Elliott</a> has posted:</p><p class="preview"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/47541014"><img src="https://cdn.ipernity.com/200/10/14/47541014.3538c78a.240.jpg?r2" width="240" height="180" alt=""/></a></p><div class="description">Two afternoons ago, on 25 October 2018, I dashed down to a place that I had been curious about for the last few years. Every time I drove the highway, I would pass a sign that said Kayben Farms. My daughter had posted photos from a visit there with friends a while ago and there were a few things that I wanted to see sometime. A spur-of-the-moment visit yesterday gave me the chance to do so. Actually, I suspect it may also have been a delaying tactic for all the endless things that I knew I should be seeing to.<br /> <br /> There were a few sheds/barns scattered around the grounds. Most were a pretty basic, simple shape and not old. However, I absolutely loved the wonderfully bright and colourful door of two of the buildings. <br /> <br /> Wandering near the corn maze - now closed till next year - I came across a beautiful dead Sunflower hanging its head. One of my favourite things to photograph, at any stage of their life. As for a corn maze, nothing would make me enter .... nothing, unless the corn plants were no higher than my waist and if I was with someone who has an excellent sense of direction!<br /> <br /> Various pieces of old farm equipment dotted the area. I always enjoy coming across such things on any of my travels.<br /> <br /> There were several different kinds of domestic duck and two in particular caught my eye. The one in this photo was quite beautiful, but moved constantly and fast. Looked quite an elongated duck. A female domestic Turkey had two babies, one black and the other was a tan colour, and what a good mother she was. A variety of farm animals, incluing a large Pot-bellied (?) Pig that was fast asleep and snoring loudly, made for a very pleasant visit.</div> Anne Elliott https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/47438564 tag:ipernity.com,2018-10-07,doc-47438564 Sun, 07 Oct 2018 15:41:36 +0000 2018-10-05T14:09:46-06:00 nobody@ipernity.com (Anne Elliott) <p class="who"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/home/293827">Anne Elliott</a> has posted:</p><p class="preview"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/47438564"><img src="https://cdn.ipernity.com/200/85/64/47438564.134e25b7.240.jpg?r2" width="240" height="180" alt=""/></a></p><div class="description">HAPPY THANKSGIVING!<br /> <br /> Two days ago, on 5 October 2018, I made the most of a few hours of mixed sunshine and cloud, and made a visit to the Zoo yesterday. I find that a bright, sunny day gives more light inside the Conservatory. Not that it really mattered, as there were only three tropical butterflies left - and those three were being harassed by several young children, so I came home with just one butterfly photo. The tropical plants were in better shape and offered lots of cheery colour. Mainly because I got to the Zoo part way through the afternoon, I got no further than the Conservatory, which is always my favourite place. <br /> <br /> This visit, I did see two Red Pandas and the beautiful Giant Pandas (that are on loan to the Zoo for five (?) years). The Red Pandas are not always outside and visible, so I was happy to catch one climbing a tree. They really are beautiful animals and their long, bushy tail comes in handy to wrap around and keep the animal warm.<br /> <br /> "The Snow Leopard cannot roar, despite possessing an incomplete ossification of the hyoid bone, which was previously thought to be essential for allowing the big cats to roar. However, new studies show that the ability to roar is due to other morphological features, especially of the larynx, which are absent in the snow leopard." From Wikipedia.<br /> <br /> "The total wild population of the snow leopard is estimated at between 4,000 and 7,500 individuals. In 1972, the International Union for the Conservation of Nature, (IUCN) placed the snow leopard on its Red List of Threatened Species as "Endangered," the same classification given the panda and the tiger.....There are numerous agencies working to conserve the snow leopard and its threatened mountain ecosystems." From Wikipedia.<br /> <br /> There are also 600-700 snow leopards in zoos around the world.<br /> <br /> Gobi, the baby Bactrian Camel was snuggled next to one of his parents. Managed to catch one of the Japanese Macaques when it was down on the ground, though the double wire fencing makes photos a challenge. A new addition to the Zoo is a Pallas's Cat. These animals look so funny/cute, and I was really hoping to see it, but it was curled up inside a dark log, with just its tail protruding. <br /> <br /> I was so thankful that I made this one last visit to the Zoo till next spring, as I found out that 'my' parking lot closes in a couple of days' time. This always happens each winter, and the other, main lot is out of my driving comfort zone.</div> Snow Leopard / Panthera uncia <p class="who"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/home/293827">Anne Elliott</a> has posted:</p><p class="preview"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/47438564"><img src="https://cdn.ipernity.com/200/85/64/47438564.134e25b7.240.jpg?r2" width="240" height="180" alt=""/></a></p><div class="description">HAPPY THANKSGIVING!<br /> <br /> Two days ago, on 5 October 2018, I made the most of a few hours of mixed sunshine and cloud, and made a visit to the Zoo yesterday. I find that a bright, sunny day gives more light inside the Conservatory. Not that it really mattered, as there were only three tropical butterflies left - and those three were being harassed by several young children, so I came home with just one butterfly photo. The tropical plants were in better shape and offered lots of cheery colour. Mainly because I got to the Zoo part way through the afternoon, I got no further than the Conservatory, which is always my favourite place. <br /> <br /> This visit, I did see two Red Pandas and the beautiful Giant Pandas (that are on loan to the Zoo for five (?) years). The Red Pandas are not always outside and visible, so I was happy to catch one climbing a tree. They really are beautiful animals and their long, bushy tail comes in handy to wrap around and keep the animal warm.<br /> <br /> "The Snow Leopard cannot roar, despite possessing an incomplete ossification of the hyoid bone, which was previously thought to be essential for allowing the big cats to roar. However, new studies show that the ability to roar is due to other morphological features, especially of the larynx, which are absent in the snow leopard." From Wikipedia.<br /> <br /> "The total wild population of the snow leopard is estimated at between 4,000 and 7,500 individuals. In 1972, the International Union for the Conservation of Nature, (IUCN) placed the snow leopard on its Red List of Threatened Species as "Endangered," the same classification given the panda and the tiger.....There are numerous agencies working to conserve the snow leopard and its threatened mountain ecosystems." From Wikipedia.<br /> <br /> There are also 600-700 snow leopards in zoos around the world.<br /> <br /> Gobi, the baby Bactrian Camel was snuggled next to one of his parents. Managed to catch one of the Japanese Macaques when it was down on the ground, though the double wire fencing makes photos a challenge. A new addition to the Zoo is a Pallas's Cat. These animals look so funny/cute, and I was really hoping to see it, but it was curled up inside a dark log, with just its tail protruding. <br /> <br /> I was so thankful that I made this one last visit to the Zoo till next spring, as I found out that 'my' parking lot closes in a couple of days' time. This always happens each winter, and the other, main lot is out of my driving comfort zone.</div> Anne Elliott https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/46122168 tag:ipernity.com,2018-01-09,doc-46122168 Tue, 09 Jan 2018 16:10:12 +0000 2018-01-08T11:24:48-07:00 nobody@ipernity.com (Anne Elliott) <p class="who"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/home/293827">Anne Elliott</a> has posted:</p><p class="preview"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/46122168"><img src="https://cdn.ipernity.com/200/21/68/46122168.b140844d.240.jpg?r2" width="240" height="240" alt=""/></a></p><div class="description">UPDATE about our friend, Mike Kelly, who amazingly survived an horrific vehicle accident (broken jaw, broken ankle and two broken legs), east of the city, in brutal, -30C weather. One of the two wonderful good Samaritans who saved his life turned up at Mike's hospital room! This will be so good for Mike, as he really, really wanted to meet his two life-savers and thank them in person. Hopefully, he will still get the chance to meet his other hero. We are all so grateful! <br /> <br /> Three rather uninspiring photos posted this morning, mainly just as a record that I actually got out on a birding walk with a group of friends yesterday morning. Quite a photographic leap from the hot rainforest of Trinidad (posted yesterday) to the cold, winter sights of Calgary. One look at the weather forecast for this week and I decided that, if I was going to head over to Carburn Park, I had better do it yesterday. We are supposed to get snow this evening, overnight and the next two days. Temperature this overcast morning is -7C (windchill -15C), so not too bad.<br /> <br /> The light was not good for photos yesterday morning and most of the birds were very distant, as usual, at this location. Funny how it always works - if one is walking along the edge of the river, the birds are mainly on the far side. We did see 29 bird species, though. My main reason for pushing myself out the front door was to catch up with friends.<br /> <br /> Later in the day, a friend very kindly picked me up and we went to the meeting about the recent Christmas Bird Counts. What an enormous amount of detail and facts are collected each year - most impressive!</div> Hooded Merganser male <p class="who"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/home/293827">Anne Elliott</a> has posted:</p><p class="preview"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/46122168"><img src="https://cdn.ipernity.com/200/21/68/46122168.b140844d.240.jpg?r2" width="240" height="240" alt=""/></a></p><div class="description">UPDATE about our friend, Mike Kelly, who amazingly survived an horrific vehicle accident (broken jaw, broken ankle and two broken legs), east of the city, in brutal, -30C weather. One of the two wonderful good Samaritans who saved his life turned up at Mike's hospital room! This will be so good for Mike, as he really, really wanted to meet his two life-savers and thank them in person. Hopefully, he will still get the chance to meet his other hero. We are all so grateful! <br /> <br /> Three rather uninspiring photos posted this morning, mainly just as a record that I actually got out on a birding walk with a group of friends yesterday morning. Quite a photographic leap from the hot rainforest of Trinidad (posted yesterday) to the cold, winter sights of Calgary. One look at the weather forecast for this week and I decided that, if I was going to head over to Carburn Park, I had better do it yesterday. We are supposed to get snow this evening, overnight and the next two days. Temperature this overcast morning is -7C (windchill -15C), so not too bad.<br /> <br /> The light was not good for photos yesterday morning and most of the birds were very distant, as usual, at this location. Funny how it always works - if one is walking along the edge of the river, the birds are mainly on the far side. We did see 29 bird species, though. My main reason for pushing myself out the front door was to catch up with friends.<br /> <br /> Later in the day, a friend very kindly picked me up and we went to the meeting about the recent Christmas Bird Counts. What an enormous amount of detail and facts are collected each year - most impressive!</div> Anne Elliott https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/46043370 tag:ipernity.com,2017-12-21,doc-46043370 Thu, 21 Dec 2017 16:21:45 +0000 2017-12-19T12:21:11-07:00 nobody@ipernity.com (Anne Elliott) <p class="who"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/home/293827">Anne Elliott</a> has posted:</p><p class="preview"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/46043370"><img src="https://cdn.ipernity.com/200/33/70/46043370.1f73771e.240.jpg?r2" width="240" height="180" alt=""/></a></p><div class="description">HAPPY WINTER, everyone! Today, we are one day closer to spring.<br /> <br /> Two days ago, on 19 December 2017, it was the annual Audubon Christmas Bird Count for High River, a town to the south of Calgary. I am adding the report by Gus Yaki, the leader of our small group of 7, travelling in two cars. What Gus did not add, because he did not stay for the delicious Potluck supper after the Count, is that the forecast snow (Snowfall Warning in effect) arrived in full force in the evening and the drive back to Calgary was most unpleasant. Looks like there could be about 10" of the white stuff on top of my fence today. Thanks so much, Lorrie and John, for being so kind and picking me up in the early morning and driving me all day long, and then dropping me off for the Potluck and returning later to collect me ready for the three of us to return to Calgary. Appreciated more than I can say! Thanks, also, to Greg Wagner for organizing the Count - as usual, great job! Last, but not least, many thanks to those who organized and prepared such a wonderful feast for us all to thoroughly enjoy at the end of the day! I left home around 7:00 am and arrived home about 8:15 pm, finally getting to bed at 2:00 am and eventually waking up at noon yesterday, which is why I posted so late yesterday! Was I tired after a full day out, especially after only two hours sleep the previous night!<br /> <br /> <br /> I should also add my thanks to the various property owners who very kindly gave us permission to wander round their farmyards in search of any birds. Being allowed to do this adds so much more interest to our Count day, and we really appreciate it.<br /> <br /> This Great Horned Owl was one of six that we saw in the Count area, perched nicely out in the open. We saw a second owl in the same farmyard - that one had a very pale grey face.<br /> <br /> One exciting sighting was a beautiful female Moose, maybe two years old! This was the very first sighting ever of a Moose in our SE quadrant of the High River Count circle. From a distance, she was barely noticeable through the falling snow.<br /> <br /> Common Redpolls were enjoyed at some feeders. They gave me the first opportunity to take photos this season. Much as I prefer photos without feeders, I am very glad for this chance. They are such dainty little birds, and fast-moving. It always looks like a feeding frenzy when they are at the feeders.<br /> <br /> "High River CBC, SE Quadrant, including Frank Lake. 0800-1545, Tue, 19 Dec2017. Light overcast, light snow beginning at 1100. N Wind 10kph, -07 to -06°C. Ground bare initially, 3 cm at end. Little Bow River, mostly open.<br /> <br /> Mallard-500 <br /> Northern Shoveler-1 f. <br /> Northern Pintail-2 <br /> Common Goldeneye-3 <br /> Gray Partridge-8 <br /> Bald Eagle-1 ad, on Frank Lake <br /> Prairie Falcon-1 <br /> Rock Pigeon-56 <br /> Great Horned Owl-6 <br /> Snowy Owl-1 <br /> Blue Jay-4 <br /> Black-billed Magpie-17 <br /> Common Raven-4 <br /> Song Sparrow-1 <br /> Snow Bunting-150 <br /> Common Redpoll-790 <br /> House Sparrow-202<br /> Ring-necked Pheasant tracks by observation blind.<br /> <br /> Gord Fraser, on W side of Little Bow, just N of 594 Av, had 40 Gray Partridges this a.m.<br /> <br /> Coyote-4 <br /> Skunk track by observation blind <br /> Meadow Vole-1 <br /> Mule Deer-6 <br /> Moose-1 f.<br /> Participants:<br /> <br /> Km by Car- 58 <br /> Km on foot -5 <br /> Total km - 63 <br /> <br /> Time by car – 2 hrs <br /> Time on foot-5 hrs <br /> Total party hours-7 hrs"</div> A welcome addition to our Christmas Bird Count <p class="who"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/home/293827">Anne Elliott</a> has posted:</p><p class="preview"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/46043370"><img src="https://cdn.ipernity.com/200/33/70/46043370.1f73771e.240.jpg?r2" width="240" height="180" alt=""/></a></p><div class="description">HAPPY WINTER, everyone! Today, we are one day closer to spring.<br /> <br /> Two days ago, on 19 December 2017, it was the annual Audubon Christmas Bird Count for High River, a town to the south of Calgary. I am adding the report by Gus Yaki, the leader of our small group of 7, travelling in two cars. What Gus did not add, because he did not stay for the delicious Potluck supper after the Count, is that the forecast snow (Snowfall Warning in effect) arrived in full force in the evening and the drive back to Calgary was most unpleasant. Looks like there could be about 10" of the white stuff on top of my fence today. Thanks so much, Lorrie and John, for being so kind and picking me up in the early morning and driving me all day long, and then dropping me off for the Potluck and returning later to collect me ready for the three of us to return to Calgary. Appreciated more than I can say! Thanks, also, to Greg Wagner for organizing the Count - as usual, great job! Last, but not least, many thanks to those who organized and prepared such a wonderful feast for us all to thoroughly enjoy at the end of the day! I left home around 7:00 am and arrived home about 8:15 pm, finally getting to bed at 2:00 am and eventually waking up at noon yesterday, which is why I posted so late yesterday! Was I tired after a full day out, especially after only two hours sleep the previous night!<br /> <br /> <br /> I should also add my thanks to the various property owners who very kindly gave us permission to wander round their farmyards in search of any birds. Being allowed to do this adds so much more interest to our Count day, and we really appreciate it.<br /> <br /> This Great Horned Owl was one of six that we saw in the Count area, perched nicely out in the open. We saw a second owl in the same farmyard - that one had a very pale grey face.<br /> <br /> One exciting sighting was a beautiful female Moose, maybe two years old! This was the very first sighting ever of a Moose in our SE quadrant of the High River Count circle. From a distance, she was barely noticeable through the falling snow.<br /> <br /> Common Redpolls were enjoyed at some feeders. They gave me the first opportunity to take photos this season. Much as I prefer photos without feeders, I am very glad for this chance. They are such dainty little birds, and fast-moving. It always looks like a feeding frenzy when they are at the feeders.<br /> <br /> "High River CBC, SE Quadrant, including Frank Lake. 0800-1545, Tue, 19 Dec2017. Light overcast, light snow beginning at 1100. N Wind 10kph, -07 to -06°C. Ground bare initially, 3 cm at end. Little Bow River, mostly open.<br /> <br /> Mallard-500 <br /> Northern Shoveler-1 f. <br /> Northern Pintail-2 <br /> Common Goldeneye-3 <br /> Gray Partridge-8 <br /> Bald Eagle-1 ad, on Frank Lake <br /> Prairie Falcon-1 <br /> Rock Pigeon-56 <br /> Great Horned Owl-6 <br /> Snowy Owl-1 <br /> Blue Jay-4 <br /> Black-billed Magpie-17 <br /> Common Raven-4 <br /> Song Sparrow-1 <br /> Snow Bunting-150 <br /> Common Redpoll-790 <br /> House Sparrow-202<br /> Ring-necked Pheasant tracks by observation blind.<br /> <br /> Gord Fraser, on W side of Little Bow, just N of 594 Av, had 40 Gray Partridges this a.m.<br /> <br /> Coyote-4 <br /> Skunk track by observation blind <br /> Meadow Vole-1 <br /> Mule Deer-6 <br /> Moose-1 f.<br /> Participants:<br /> <br /> Km by Car- 58 <br /> Km on foot -5 <br /> Total km - 63 <br /> <br /> Time by car – 2 hrs <br /> Time on foot-5 hrs <br /> Total party hours-7 hrs"</div> Anne Elliott https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/45848338 tag:ipernity.com,2017-11-16,doc-45848338 Thu, 16 Nov 2017 16:02:34 +0000 2017-11-12T15:01:36-07:00 nobody@ipernity.com (Anne Elliott) <p class="who"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/home/293827">Anne Elliott</a> has posted:</p><p class="preview"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/45848338"><img src="https://cdn.ipernity.com/200/83/38/45848338.ba668ee9.240.jpg?r2" width="240" height="180" alt=""/></a></p><div class="description">Today would have been my older daughter's birthday. Hard to believe that on 3 January 2018, it will have been three years since she died. Thinking of you, Fiona, as always.<br /> <br /> This morning, 16 November 2017, it is snowing again. Our temperature is -10C (windchill -18C). I'm beginning to forget what sunshine is like!<br /> <br /> This photo was taken at Pine Coulee Reservoir four days ago, on 12 November 2017. A group of eight of us went S and SE of the city on a birding trip to one of my favourite areas. This included Pine Coulee Reservoir, Clear Lake and the Twin Valley Reservoir. I just love some of the landscape through which we drove - barren, rugged, middle-of-nowhere kind of scenery. It looks so different in each season - I think my favourite time of year is when there is a covering of snow on the empty hills, and ice on most of the water. I've still not had the courage to drive in this area myself, as I know that I might never find my way out of it.<br /> <br /> Several previous trips had covered part of this latest drive, but much of the return drive was in a huge area that I had never been to before. Later in the drive, we crossed the main highway #2 south and travelled the backroads way, way south of the Frank Lake area, and kept going north until we got back to the city. The Twin Valley Reservoir was one of the stops we made in this new-to-me area. <br /> <br /> Actually, I have just been reading my account of a trip made on 9 November 2013, and discovered that, in fact, I HAD been to this area before. Just shows that I often have no idea where we are at any given time. Since the trip in 2013, I do have a somewhat better understanding of the area S and SE of Calgary. The following is from Terry Korolyk's account of that day, four years ago:<br /> <br /> "The north end of Clear Lake was frozen, so, we headed north to the Twin Valleys Dam Reservoir, and, drove up the east side of it. This produced more Rough-legged Hawks,and, a Prairie Falcon. Some herds of Mule Deer and flocks of Gray Partridge were seen on the trip home via Highways 804, 799, 552, and Dunbow Road." <br /> <br /> As on almost all these day trips out of the city, almost every bird is far, far away, needing at least binoculars and best of all, a scope. Two Great Horned Owls and a couple of tiny Common Redpolls were the only closer photos I took. This was the first time that I had seen Redpolls this year, so it was a nice sighting. They were flying back and forth from the trees to perch on a rough, wooden fence.<br /> <br /> Also, as always happens, my camera lens turns to things other than birds. Scenic shots are always taken - after all, I feel that it is important to record the habitat of any birds seen. I have no excuse to give for photographing any old barn or homestead, other than that I LOVE to photograph them : )<br /> <br /> Terry, you took us on such an amazing trip! So many new (or forgotten) places, to me at least. You even arranged with the weatherman for a beautiful, sunny day. It couldn't have been a better outing - so very enjoyable. Now all I need to do is look at a map and try and find roughly where we travelled! Really appreciate your carefully made lists of all species seen, and where.</div> Distant ice patterns on the reservoir <p class="who"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/home/293827">Anne Elliott</a> has posted:</p><p class="preview"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/45848338"><img src="https://cdn.ipernity.com/200/83/38/45848338.ba668ee9.240.jpg?r2" width="240" height="180" alt=""/></a></p><div class="description">Today would have been my older daughter's birthday. Hard to believe that on 3 January 2018, it will have been three years since she died. Thinking of you, Fiona, as always.<br /> <br /> This morning, 16 November 2017, it is snowing again. Our temperature is -10C (windchill -18C). I'm beginning to forget what sunshine is like!<br /> <br /> This photo was taken at Pine Coulee Reservoir four days ago, on 12 November 2017. A group of eight of us went S and SE of the city on a birding trip to one of my favourite areas. This included Pine Coulee Reservoir, Clear Lake and the Twin Valley Reservoir. I just love some of the landscape through which we drove - barren, rugged, middle-of-nowhere kind of scenery. It looks so different in each season - I think my favourite time of year is when there is a covering of snow on the empty hills, and ice on most of the water. I've still not had the courage to drive in this area myself, as I know that I might never find my way out of it.<br /> <br /> Several previous trips had covered part of this latest drive, but much of the return drive was in a huge area that I had never been to before. Later in the drive, we crossed the main highway #2 south and travelled the backroads way, way south of the Frank Lake area, and kept going north until we got back to the city. The Twin Valley Reservoir was one of the stops we made in this new-to-me area. <br /> <br /> Actually, I have just been reading my account of a trip made on 9 November 2013, and discovered that, in fact, I HAD been to this area before. Just shows that I often have no idea where we are at any given time. Since the trip in 2013, I do have a somewhat better understanding of the area S and SE of Calgary. The following is from Terry Korolyk's account of that day, four years ago:<br /> <br /> "The north end of Clear Lake was frozen, so, we headed north to the Twin Valleys Dam Reservoir, and, drove up the east side of it. This produced more Rough-legged Hawks,and, a Prairie Falcon. Some herds of Mule Deer and flocks of Gray Partridge were seen on the trip home via Highways 804, 799, 552, and Dunbow Road." <br /> <br /> As on almost all these day trips out of the city, almost every bird is far, far away, needing at least binoculars and best of all, a scope. Two Great Horned Owls and a couple of tiny Common Redpolls were the only closer photos I took. This was the first time that I had seen Redpolls this year, so it was a nice sighting. They were flying back and forth from the trees to perch on a rough, wooden fence.<br /> <br /> Also, as always happens, my camera lens turns to things other than birds. Scenic shots are always taken - after all, I feel that it is important to record the habitat of any birds seen. I have no excuse to give for photographing any old barn or homestead, other than that I LOVE to photograph them : )<br /> <br /> Terry, you took us on such an amazing trip! So many new (or forgotten) places, to me at least. You even arranged with the weatherman for a beautiful, sunny day. It couldn't have been a better outing - so very enjoyable. Now all I need to do is look at a map and try and find roughly where we travelled! Really appreciate your carefully made lists of all species seen, and where.</div> Anne Elliott https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/45843488 tag:ipernity.com,2017-11-13,doc-45843488 Mon, 13 Nov 2017 17:40:47 +0000 2017-11-12T12:05:27-07:00 nobody@ipernity.com (Anne Elliott) <p class="who"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/home/293827">Anne Elliott</a> has posted:</p><p class="preview"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/45843488"><img src="https://cdn.ipernity.com/200/34/88/45843488.2a7fc341.240.jpg?r2" width="240" height="180" alt=""/></a></p><div class="description">A new Great Horned Owl for me yesterday and one the previous day (in Fish Creek Park). Lucky me! The one in this photo was seen at one of our stops yesterday. A second owl was perched just above this one, but was half hidden by branches. I had seen Great Horned Owls in this tree before - though I have no idea where we were and would never be able to find the tree again.<br /> <br /> All three photos posted this morning were taken yesterday, 12 November 2017. A group of eight of us went S and SE of the city on a birding trip to one of my favourite areas. This included Pine Couleee Reservoir, Clear Lake and the Twin Valley Reservoir. I just love the landscape through which we drove - barren, rugged, middle-of-nowhere kind of scenery. It looks so different in each season - I think my favourite time of year is when there is a covering of snow on the empty hills and ice on most of the water. I've still not had the courage to drive in this area myself, as I know that I might never find my way out of it.<br /> <br /> Several previous trips had covered part of yesterday's drive, but much of the return drive was in a huge area that I had never been to before. We crossed the main highway #2 south and travelled the backroads way, way south of the Frank Lake area, and kept going north until we got back to the city. The Twin Valley Reservoir was one of the stops we made in this new-to-me area. <br /> <br /> Actually, I have just been reading my account of a trip made on 9 November 2013, and discovered that in fact I HAD been to this area before. Just shows that I often have no idea where we are at any given time. Since the trip in 2013, I do have a better understanding of the area S and SE of Calgary. The following is from Terry's account of that day, four years ago:<br /> <br /> "The north end of Clear Lake was frozen, so, we headed north to the Twin Valleys Dam Reservoir, and, drove up the east side of it. This produced more Rough-legged Hawks,and, a Prairie Falcon. Some herds of Mule Deer and flocks of Gray Partridge were seen on the trip home via Highways 804, 799, 552, and Dunbow Road." <br /> <br /> As on almost all these day trips out of the city, almost every bird is far, far away, needing at least binoculars and best of all, a scope. This owl and a couple of tiny Common Redpolls were the only closer photos I took. This was the first time that I had seen Redpolls this year, so it was a nice sighting. They were flying back and forth from the trees to perch on a fence.<br /> <br /> Also, as always happens, my camera lens turns to things other than birds. Scenic shots are always taken - after all, I feel that it is important to record the habitat of any birds seen. I have no excuse to give for photographing any old barn or homestead, other than that I LOVE to photograph them : )<br /> <br /> Terry (Korolyk), you took us on such an amazing trip! So many new places, to me at least. You even arranged with the weatherman for a beautiful, sunny day. It couldn't have been a better outing - so very enjoyable. Now all I need to do is look at a map and try and find roughly where we travelled! Really appreciate your carefully made lists of all species seen, and where. I see that eBird is down this morning, so I can't yet access your lists again.</div> One of a pair <p class="who"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/home/293827">Anne Elliott</a> has posted:</p><p class="preview"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/45843488"><img src="https://cdn.ipernity.com/200/34/88/45843488.2a7fc341.240.jpg?r2" width="240" height="180" alt=""/></a></p><div class="description">A new Great Horned Owl for me yesterday and one the previous day (in Fish Creek Park). Lucky me! The one in this photo was seen at one of our stops yesterday. A second owl was perched just above this one, but was half hidden by branches. I had seen Great Horned Owls in this tree before - though I have no idea where we were and would never be able to find the tree again.<br /> <br /> All three photos posted this morning were taken yesterday, 12 November 2017. A group of eight of us went S and SE of the city on a birding trip to one of my favourite areas. This included Pine Couleee Reservoir, Clear Lake and the Twin Valley Reservoir. I just love the landscape through which we drove - barren, rugged, middle-of-nowhere kind of scenery. It looks so different in each season - I think my favourite time of year is when there is a covering of snow on the empty hills and ice on most of the water. I've still not had the courage to drive in this area myself, as I know that I might never find my way out of it.<br /> <br /> Several previous trips had covered part of yesterday's drive, but much of the return drive was in a huge area that I had never been to before. We crossed the main highway #2 south and travelled the backroads way, way south of the Frank Lake area, and kept going north until we got back to the city. The Twin Valley Reservoir was one of the stops we made in this new-to-me area. <br /> <br /> Actually, I have just been reading my account of a trip made on 9 November 2013, and discovered that in fact I HAD been to this area before. Just shows that I often have no idea where we are at any given time. Since the trip in 2013, I do have a better understanding of the area S and SE of Calgary. The following is from Terry's account of that day, four years ago:<br /> <br /> "The north end of Clear Lake was frozen, so, we headed north to the Twin Valleys Dam Reservoir, and, drove up the east side of it. This produced more Rough-legged Hawks,and, a Prairie Falcon. Some herds of Mule Deer and flocks of Gray Partridge were seen on the trip home via Highways 804, 799, 552, and Dunbow Road." <br /> <br /> As on almost all these day trips out of the city, almost every bird is far, far away, needing at least binoculars and best of all, a scope. This owl and a couple of tiny Common Redpolls were the only closer photos I took. This was the first time that I had seen Redpolls this year, so it was a nice sighting. They were flying back and forth from the trees to perch on a fence.<br /> <br /> Also, as always happens, my camera lens turns to things other than birds. Scenic shots are always taken - after all, I feel that it is important to record the habitat of any birds seen. I have no excuse to give for photographing any old barn or homestead, other than that I LOVE to photograph them : )<br /> <br /> Terry (Korolyk), you took us on such an amazing trip! So many new places, to me at least. You even arranged with the weatherman for a beautiful, sunny day. It couldn't have been a better outing - so very enjoyable. Now all I need to do is look at a map and try and find roughly where we travelled! Really appreciate your carefully made lists of all species seen, and where. I see that eBird is down this morning, so I can't yet access your lists again.</div> Anne Elliott https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/45835838 tag:ipernity.com,2017-11-12,doc-45835838 Sun, 12 Nov 2017 14:47:15 +0000 2017-11-11T13:50:11-07:00 nobody@ipernity.com (Anne Elliott) <p class="who"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/home/293827">Anne Elliott</a> has posted:</p><p class="preview"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/45835838"><img src="https://cdn.ipernity.com/200/58/38/45835838.14366518.240.jpg?r2" width="240" height="180" alt=""/></a></p><div class="description">I did start typing a description early this morning, but must have got distracted by something, and I lost the description. I was in such a hurry, as I overslept by 45 minutes and I was going to meet a few friend for a day trip S and SE of Calgary. What a great day we had, in beautiful weather, and along roads that I had never been along before. Two Great Horned Owls. Some new-to-me old barns, too!<br /> <br /> This Great Horned Owl photo was taken yesterday, 11 November 2017. After watching the Remembrance Day ceremony held at the Field of Crosses on TV, I thought i would drive over to Fish Creek Park and see if there was any sign of the tiny Northern Pygmy-owl that some of us saw two days ago. There had been notices on the News and online, saying that the Black Bear that had been hanging around the park, had been caught and removed to an area west of the city, near Bragg Creek. They said that the yellow tape had been removed and that the parking lot was now open. <br /> <br /> Well, when I reached the parking lot, the yellow tape was still there and the gate was still closed. About three vehicles had pulled off to the side of the road and the occupants gone. I wasn't sure what to do - whether to park there or go home, as there was no way I could do a long walk from one of the other locations in the park. A friend suddenly appeared by my window and said he was parked there and that he had already seen a Great Horned Owl. That was not the species I had intended searching for, but it always feels so good to see a Great Horned Owl. While we were talking by our cars, a Parks person came by in his truck and we had a good chat. A very pleasant man, who explained why they had left the area closed after all - to make sure that the Bear had not attracted any other predators to the area. Sounds like it did, as I was reading that a Cougar has been seen! The man told us that we could stay where we had parked, seeing as the News had been inaccurate, and that he wouldn't be ticketing any vehicles that day. <br /> <br /> After he had continued on his way, my friend offered to go back and show me where he had seen this Great Horned Owl. Luckily, it was still perched there, catching a bit of sleep, but then becoming more and more alert. Unfortunately, it was covered in shadows from the branches. After a while, it flew off through the trees, possibly in search of the Ring-necked Pheasant that we heard. Many thanks for taking me, Lloyd! Made my day.</div> Shadows <p class="who"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/home/293827">Anne Elliott</a> has posted:</p><p class="preview"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/45835838"><img src="https://cdn.ipernity.com/200/58/38/45835838.14366518.240.jpg?r2" width="240" height="180" alt=""/></a></p><div class="description">I did start typing a description early this morning, but must have got distracted by something, and I lost the description. I was in such a hurry, as I overslept by 45 minutes and I was going to meet a few friend for a day trip S and SE of Calgary. What a great day we had, in beautiful weather, and along roads that I had never been along before. Two Great Horned Owls. Some new-to-me old barns, too!<br /> <br /> This Great Horned Owl photo was taken yesterday, 11 November 2017. After watching the Remembrance Day ceremony held at the Field of Crosses on TV, I thought i would drive over to Fish Creek Park and see if there was any sign of the tiny Northern Pygmy-owl that some of us saw two days ago. There had been notices on the News and online, saying that the Black Bear that had been hanging around the park, had been caught and removed to an area west of the city, near Bragg Creek. They said that the yellow tape had been removed and that the parking lot was now open. <br /> <br /> Well, when I reached the parking lot, the yellow tape was still there and the gate was still closed. About three vehicles had pulled off to the side of the road and the occupants gone. I wasn't sure what to do - whether to park there or go home, as there was no way I could do a long walk from one of the other locations in the park. A friend suddenly appeared by my window and said he was parked there and that he had already seen a Great Horned Owl. That was not the species I had intended searching for, but it always feels so good to see a Great Horned Owl. While we were talking by our cars, a Parks person came by in his truck and we had a good chat. A very pleasant man, who explained why they had left the area closed after all - to make sure that the Bear had not attracted any other predators to the area. Sounds like it did, as I was reading that a Cougar has been seen! The man told us that we could stay where we had parked, seeing as the News had been inaccurate, and that he wouldn't be ticketing any vehicles that day. <br /> <br /> After he had continued on his way, my friend offered to go back and show me where he had seen this Great Horned Owl. Luckily, it was still perched there, catching a bit of sleep, but then becoming more and more alert. Unfortunately, it was covered in shadows from the branches. After a while, it flew off through the trees, possibly in search of the Ring-necked Pheasant that we heard. Many thanks for taking me, Lloyd! Made my day.</div> Anne Elliott https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/45835782 tag:ipernity.com,2017-11-12,doc-45835782 Sun, 12 Nov 2017 14:44:27 +0000 2017-09-12T12:30:16-07:00 nobody@ipernity.com (Anne Elliott) <p class="who"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/home/293827">Anne Elliott</a> has posted:</p><p class="preview"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/45835782"><img src="https://cdn.ipernity.com/200/57/82/45835782.f173810f.240.jpg?r2" width="240" height="180" alt=""/></a></p><div class="description">In the afternoon of 12 September 2017, I just needed a short break from watching TV footage of all the devastation caused by Hurricanes Harvey and Irma in south-east U.S.. Decided to dash down to a wetland in SW Calgary, hoping to see a few birds. Half a dozen Coots and a Mallard were all I saw, but I was happy to catch a Cabbage White butterfly perched on (invasive) Creeping Thistle. <br /> <br /> "The waterborne American Coot is one good reminder that not everything that floats is a duck. A close look at a coot—that small head, those scrawny legs—reveals a different kind of bird entirely. Their dark bodies and white faces are common sights in nearly any open water across the continent, and they often mix with ducks. But they’re closer relatives of the gangly Sandhill Crane and the nearly invisible rails than of Mallards or teal." From AllAboutBirds.<br /> <br /> <a href="https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/American_Coot/id" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/American_Coot/id</a></div> Couple of Coots / Fulica americana <p class="who"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/home/293827">Anne Elliott</a> has posted:</p><p class="preview"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/45835782"><img src="https://cdn.ipernity.com/200/57/82/45835782.f173810f.240.jpg?r2" width="240" height="180" alt=""/></a></p><div class="description">In the afternoon of 12 September 2017, I just needed a short break from watching TV footage of all the devastation caused by Hurricanes Harvey and Irma in south-east U.S.. Decided to dash down to a wetland in SW Calgary, hoping to see a few birds. Half a dozen Coots and a Mallard were all I saw, but I was happy to catch a Cabbage White butterfly perched on (invasive) Creeping Thistle. <br /> <br /> "The waterborne American Coot is one good reminder that not everything that floats is a duck. A close look at a coot—that small head, those scrawny legs—reveals a different kind of bird entirely. Their dark bodies and white faces are common sights in nearly any open water across the continent, and they often mix with ducks. But they’re closer relatives of the gangly Sandhill Crane and the nearly invisible rails than of Mallards or teal." From AllAboutBirds.<br /> <br /> <a href="https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/American_Coot/id" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/American_Coot/id</a></div> Anne Elliott https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/45499318 tag:ipernity.com,2017-09-13,doc-45499318 Wed, 13 Sep 2017 17:33:36 +0000 2017-09-12T12:36:28-06:00 nobody@ipernity.com (Anne Elliott) <p class="who"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/home/293827">Anne Elliott</a> has posted:</p><p class="preview"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/45499318"><img src="https://cdn.ipernity.com/200/93/18/45499318.b8835b55.240.jpg?r2" width="240" height="180" alt=""/></a></p><div class="description">Yesterday afternoon, 12 September 2017, I just needed a short break from watching TV footage of all the devastation caused by Hurricanes Harvey and Irma in south-east U.S.. Decided to dash down to a wetland in SW Calgary, hoping to see a few birds. Half a dozen Coots and a Mallard were all I saw, but I was happy to catch a Cabbage White butterfly perched on (invasive) Creeping Thistle. <br /> <br /> "The waterborne American Coot is one good reminder that not everything that floats is a duck. A close look at a coot—that small head, those scrawny legs—reveals a different kind of bird entirely. Their dark bodies and white faces are common sights in nearly any open water across the continent, and they often mix with ducks. But they’re closer relatives of the gangly Sandhill Crane and the nearly invisible rails than of Mallards or teal." From AllAboutBirds.<br /> <br /> <a href="https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/American_Coot/id" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/American_Coot/id</a></div> Juvenile American Coot <p class="who"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/home/293827">Anne Elliott</a> has posted:</p><p class="preview"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/45499318"><img src="https://cdn.ipernity.com/200/93/18/45499318.b8835b55.240.jpg?r2" width="240" height="180" alt=""/></a></p><div class="description">Yesterday afternoon, 12 September 2017, I just needed a short break from watching TV footage of all the devastation caused by Hurricanes Harvey and Irma in south-east U.S.. Decided to dash down to a wetland in SW Calgary, hoping to see a few birds. Half a dozen Coots and a Mallard were all I saw, but I was happy to catch a Cabbage White butterfly perched on (invasive) Creeping Thistle. <br /> <br /> "The waterborne American Coot is one good reminder that not everything that floats is a duck. A close look at a coot—that small head, those scrawny legs—reveals a different kind of bird entirely. Their dark bodies and white faces are common sights in nearly any open water across the continent, and they often mix with ducks. But they’re closer relatives of the gangly Sandhill Crane and the nearly invisible rails than of Mallards or teal." From AllAboutBirds.<br /> <br /> <a href="https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/American_Coot/id" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/American_Coot/id</a></div> Anne Elliott https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/45016888 tag:ipernity.com,2017-06-23,doc-45016888 Fri, 23 Jun 2017 16:39:35 +0000 2017-05-27T18:07:57-06:00 nobody@ipernity.com (Anne Elliott) <p class="who"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/home/293827">Anne Elliott</a> has posted:</p><p class="preview"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/45016888"><img src="https://cdn.ipernity.com/200/68/88/45016888.ba6e39b9.240.jpg?r2" width="240" height="180" alt=""/></a></p><div class="description">This photo was taken in the evening of 27 May 2017, when a group of us (13?) got together at Frank Lake for a celebration of spring. Great company and great picnic food. Even a few birds to photograph, including this male Ruddy Duck, who was busy trying to impress a nearby female Ruddy Duck. We had sunshine, too, until it was time to go home, when the heavens opened and down came the rain, accompanied by streaks of lightning. Thanks, Brenda, for organizing this event that went so smoothly and was most enjoyable!<br /> <br /> "Ruddy Ducks are compact, thick-necked waterfowl with seemingly oversized tails that they habitually hold upright. Breeding males are almost cartoonishly bold, with a sky-blue bill, shining white cheek patch, and gleaming chestnut body. They court females by beating their bill against their neck hard enough to create a swirl of bubbles in the water. This widespread duck breeds mostly in the prairie pothole region of North America and winters in wetlands throughout the U.S. and Mexico." From AllAboutBirds.<br /> <br /> <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ruddy_Duck" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ruddy_Duck</a><br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/ruddy_duck/id" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/ruddy_duck/id</a><br /> <br /> "Frank Lake, found 50 km southeast of Calgary near High River, Alberta, is a productive wetland important to hundreds of bird species. Once completely dry, this wetland has been saved from drainage and drought through a progressive partnership between industry, government and Ducks Unlimited. It is now listed as one of 597 Important Bird Areas in Canada."<br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.ducks.ca/places/alberta/frank-lake/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.ducks.ca/places/alberta/frank-lake/</a></div> Ruddy Duck male <p class="who"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/home/293827">Anne Elliott</a> has posted:</p><p class="preview"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/45016888"><img src="https://cdn.ipernity.com/200/68/88/45016888.ba6e39b9.240.jpg?r2" width="240" height="180" alt=""/></a></p><div class="description">This photo was taken in the evening of 27 May 2017, when a group of us (13?) got together at Frank Lake for a celebration of spring. Great company and great picnic food. Even a few birds to photograph, including this male Ruddy Duck, who was busy trying to impress a nearby female Ruddy Duck. We had sunshine, too, until it was time to go home, when the heavens opened and down came the rain, accompanied by streaks of lightning. Thanks, Brenda, for organizing this event that went so smoothly and was most enjoyable!<br /> <br /> "Ruddy Ducks are compact, thick-necked waterfowl with seemingly oversized tails that they habitually hold upright. Breeding males are almost cartoonishly bold, with a sky-blue bill, shining white cheek patch, and gleaming chestnut body. They court females by beating their bill against their neck hard enough to create a swirl of bubbles in the water. This widespread duck breeds mostly in the prairie pothole region of North America and winters in wetlands throughout the U.S. and Mexico." From AllAboutBirds.<br /> <br /> <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ruddy_Duck" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ruddy_Duck</a><br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/ruddy_duck/id" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/ruddy_duck/id</a><br /> <br /> "Frank Lake, found 50 km southeast of Calgary near High River, Alberta, is a productive wetland important to hundreds of bird species. Once completely dry, this wetland has been saved from drainage and drought through a progressive partnership between industry, government and Ducks Unlimited. It is now listed as one of 597 Important Bird Areas in Canada."<br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.ducks.ca/places/alberta/frank-lake/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.ducks.ca/places/alberta/frank-lake/</a></div> Anne Elliott https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/44904744 tag:ipernity.com,2017-06-03,doc-44904744 Sat, 03 Jun 2017 16:21:41 +0000 2017-05-27T18:13:45-06:00 nobody@ipernity.com (Anne Elliott) <p class="who"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/home/293827">Anne Elliott</a> has posted:</p><p class="preview"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/44904744"><img src="https://cdn.ipernity.com/200/47/44/44904744.b5b27e57.240.jpg?r2" width="240" height="180" alt=""/></a></p><div class="description">This photo was taken in the evening of 27 May 2017, when a group of us (13?) got together at Frank Lake for a celebration of spring. Great company and great picnic food. Even a few birds to photograph, including this male Ruddy Duck, who was busy trying to impress a nearby female Ruddy Duck. We had sunshine, too, until it was time to go home, when the heavens opened and down came the rain, accompanied by streaks of lightning. Thanks, Brenda, for organizing this event that went so smoothly and was most enjoyable!<br /> <br /> "Ruddy Ducks are compact, thick-necked waterfowl with seemingly oversized tails that they habitually hold upright. Breeding males are almost cartoonishly bold, with a sky-blue bill, shining white cheek patch, and gleaming chestnut body. They court females by beating their bill against their neck hard enough to create a swirl of bubbles in the water. This widespread duck breeds mostly in the prairie pothole region of North America and winters in wetlands throughout the U.S. and Mexico." From AllAboutBirds.<br /> <br /> <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ruddy_Duck" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ruddy_Duck</a><br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/ruddy_duck/id" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/ruddy_duck/id</a><br /> <br /> "Frank Lake, found 50 km southeast of Calgary near High River, Alberta, is a productive wetland important to hundreds of bird species. Once completely dry, this wetland has been saved from drainage and drought through a progressive partnership between industry, government and Ducks Unlimited. It is now listed as one of 597 Important Bird Areas in Canada."<br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.ducks.ca/places/alberta/frank-lake/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.ducks.ca/places/alberta/frank-lake/</a></div> Ruddy Duck male <p class="who"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/home/293827">Anne Elliott</a> has posted:</p><p class="preview"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/44904744"><img src="https://cdn.ipernity.com/200/47/44/44904744.b5b27e57.240.jpg?r2" width="240" height="180" alt=""/></a></p><div class="description">This photo was taken in the evening of 27 May 2017, when a group of us (13?) got together at Frank Lake for a celebration of spring. Great company and great picnic food. Even a few birds to photograph, including this male Ruddy Duck, who was busy trying to impress a nearby female Ruddy Duck. We had sunshine, too, until it was time to go home, when the heavens opened and down came the rain, accompanied by streaks of lightning. Thanks, Brenda, for organizing this event that went so smoothly and was most enjoyable!<br /> <br /> "Ruddy Ducks are compact, thick-necked waterfowl with seemingly oversized tails that they habitually hold upright. Breeding males are almost cartoonishly bold, with a sky-blue bill, shining white cheek patch, and gleaming chestnut body. They court females by beating their bill against their neck hard enough to create a swirl of bubbles in the water. This widespread duck breeds mostly in the prairie pothole region of North America and winters in wetlands throughout the U.S. and Mexico." From AllAboutBirds.<br /> <br /> <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ruddy_Duck" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ruddy_Duck</a><br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/ruddy_duck/id" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/ruddy_duck/id</a><br /> <br /> "Frank Lake, found 50 km southeast of Calgary near High River, Alberta, is a productive wetland important to hundreds of bird species. Once completely dry, this wetland has been saved from drainage and drought through a progressive partnership between industry, government and Ducks Unlimited. It is now listed as one of 597 Important Bird Areas in Canada."<br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.ducks.ca/places/alberta/frank-lake/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.ducks.ca/places/alberta/frank-lake/</a></div> Anne Elliott https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/44889386 tag:ipernity.com,2017-05-31,doc-44889386 Wed, 31 May 2017 16:47:13 +0000 2017-05-30T14:52:44-06:00 nobody@ipernity.com (Anne Elliott) <p class="who"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/home/293827">Anne Elliott</a> has posted:</p><p class="preview"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/44889386"><img src="https://cdn.ipernity.com/200/93/86/44889386.99f38abf.240.jpg?r2" width="240" height="180" alt=""/></a></p><div class="description">Most unusual for me, I was so desperately tired two evenings ago, that I couldn't even stay awake to find and edit three photos to post to Flickr yesterday morning! It was a long day of birding on 28 May 2017, for the May Species Count, and it completely knocked me out for the following day. Tiredness seems to be my constant companion, but not so tired that I can't fight it. So, no photos from me yesterday! <br /> <br /> Yesterday, 30 May 2017, I was out for the day south of the city with my Daughter (a belated day out for my birthday and Mother's Day), to Nanton and a few roads nearby, then making our way north to Frank Lake and finally ending up at the Saskatoon Farm, where we were just in time to have a meal. <br /> <br /> It takes about 45 minutes to drive south to the town of Nanton. Though I had been quite a few times over the years when carpooling with various friends, I had never driven quite that far south and through the town. My daughter wanted to walk round two or three of the antique shops there and we both wanted to take a few photos of the grain elevators. <br /> <br /> Once that was all done, we drove westwards from the town. Though the scenery is beautiful, we did not enjoy being on a main road with no shoulder to pull over to. We did stop once in a small pull-off, to get a few scenic shots. This was where we saw the metal cut-out of a cowboy riding his horse, with a bird perched on top of his hat (third photo I posted today). I can't decide if the distant bird is a Common Grackle or a Brewer's Blackbird, or something else?<br /> <br /> We decided to turn around and cross over to the other side of the main highway (#2) and drive north to Frank Lake, hoping to find a few things to photograph along the backroads. A handful of barns and a very few distant birds were enough to make the drive worthwhile. <br /> <br /> Frank Lake was deserted when we arrived there, though a couple of other people turned up shortly. Not many bird species, either. The water was quite choppy thanks to the wind, and there was just one Coot, a pair of Ruddy Ducks, a Barn Swallow and one Eared Grebe. I managed to get just this one shot of the latter. Saw two American Avocets, a Killdeer and a pair of Phalaropes. Franklin's Gulls were their usual noisy selves. Not a single White-faced Ibis to be seen, and only one or two Red-winged and Yellow-headed Blackbirds. When we had been on the road south of the lake, we had seen a Black-crowned Night-Heron perched on a distant fence, being harassed by several smaller birds - Brown-headed Cowbirds? I was so happy to see the Heron, as I so rarely see them. We had also seen a shorebird in a field of stubble and I need to check if this was a Long-billed Curlew.<br /> <br /> On our way home, we called in at the Saskatoon Farm and were just in time to order a meal before they closed. A quick wander round gave me the chance to grab a shot or two of a very loud Rooster and the male Wild Turkey. My favourite kind of day, so thank you, Rachel, as always!!</div> Eared Grebe <p class="who"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/home/293827">Anne Elliott</a> has posted:</p><p class="preview"><a href="https://www.ipernity.com/doc/293827/44889386"><img src="https://cdn.ipernity.com/200/93/86/44889386.99f38abf.240.jpg?r2" width="240" height="180" alt=""/></a></p><div class="description">Most unusual for me, I was so desperately tired two evenings ago, that I couldn't even stay awake to find and edit three photos to post to Flickr yesterday morning! It was a long day of birding on 28 May 2017, for the May Species Count, and it completely knocked me out for the following day. Tiredness seems to be my constant companion, but not so tired that I can't fight it. So, no photos from me yesterday! <br /> <br /> Yesterday, 30 May 2017, I was out for the day south of the city with my Daughter (a belated day out for my birthday and Mother's Day), to Nanton and a few roads nearby, then making our way north to Frank Lake and finally ending up at the Saskatoon Farm, where we were just in time to have a meal. <br /> <br /> It takes about 45 minutes to drive south to the town of Nanton. Though I had been quite a few times over the years when carpooling with various friends, I had never driven quite that far south and through the town. My daughter wanted to walk round two or three of the antique shops there and we both wanted to take a few photos of the grain elevators. <br /> <br /> Once that was all done, we drove westwards from the town. Though the scenery is beautiful, we did not enjoy being on a main road with no shoulder to pull over to. We did stop once in a small pull-off, to get a few scenic shots. This was where we saw the metal cut-out of a cowboy riding his horse, with a bird perched on top of his hat (third photo I posted today). I can't decide if the distant bird is a Common Grackle or a Brewer's Blackbird, or something else?<br /> <br /> We decided to turn around and cross over to the other side of the main highway (#2) and drive north to Frank Lake, hoping to find a few things to photograph along the backroads. A handful of barns and a very few distant birds were enough to make the drive worthwhile. <br /> <br /> Frank Lake was deserted when we arrived there, though a couple of other people turned up shortly. Not many bird species, either. The water was quite choppy thanks to the wind, and there was just one Coot, a pair of Ruddy Ducks, a Barn Swallow and one Eared Grebe. I managed to get just this one shot of the latter. Saw two American Avocets, a Killdeer and a pair of Phalaropes. Franklin's Gulls were their usual noisy selves. Not a single White-faced Ibis to be seen, and only one or two Red-winged and Yellow-headed Blackbirds. When we had been on the road south of the lake, we had seen a Black-crowned Night-Heron perched on a distant fence, being harassed by several smaller birds - Brown-headed Cowbirds? I was so happy to see the Heron, as I so rarely see them. We had also seen a shorebird in a field of stubble and I need to check if this was a Long-billed Curlew.<br /> <br /> On our way home, we called in at the Saskatoon Farm and were just in time to order a meal before they closed. A quick wander round gave me the chance to grab a shot or two of a very loud Rooster and the male Wild Turkey. My favourite kind of day, so thank you, Rachel, as always!!</div> Anne Elliott