All posts by richardhoeg@gmail.com

Day 084: Blizzard Birds!

Year 1,

Even if it’s April 16th, we’re in the middle of a big winter storm up here in northern Minnesota. Eight to fifteen inches of snow are expected by tomorrow morning. The current wind is 30 mph, with gusts over 40 mph. Thus, it’s not nice weather for either birds of photographers!

These black-capped chickadees were in the middle of an old fashioned food fight. When food is found after a long winter, it is valuable. For some reason this particular branch and spot is a preferred location for perching and breaking seeds.

On the other hand, just before the snow started these goldeneyes almost seemed to be playing! (or picking upon the third bird)

Food Fight
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Tag! You’re It!
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Day 083: Shades of Gray Junco

Year 1

This Slate Colored Junco posed for me shortly after sunrise this morning. What could be better than a gray bird, with its shadow against a gray rock! I really enjoyed trying to frame this picture, hoping the junco would not startle and fly. Normally juncos are a shy bird.

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Day 082: Chukar Chills at Dawn

Year 1, ,

In the pre dawn light, the wind was blowing in excess of 20 mph, and the temperature fell to 15F. In short, it was a cold mid April morning in northern Minnesota. However, although the chill factor reminded me of January, I decided to head out before sunrise for some photographing at 5:40 am Wow! I’m glad I skipped the normal sleep, and braved the cold.

Today’s bird is a Chukar. Say the word fast with a guttural accent and both this bird’s name and look / attitude reminds me of Klingons! It’s amazing I even saw a Chukar on the shores of Lake Superior. According to All About Birds from Cornell, this guy belongs in the western Rockies. Thus, he was a rare find on rocky shores of the big lake.

The morning was actually provided a wealth of photo opportunities. Before my photo session with Mr. Chukar, I watched and photographed some lake freighters arriving at the Duluth harbor in the dawn light. The US Coast Guard ice breaker had helped them cross Lake Superior which is still 75% ice covered.

After my photoshoot with the lakers, I drive to a small creek which empties into the Duluth harbor. This creek provides a small bit of open water, and the geese and gulls were enjoying the early morning sun. All in all, it was a great morning!

Chukar on Brighton Beach
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High Bridge Geese and Gulls
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Laker in the Pre-Dawn Light
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