For the past month we’ve been experiencing a dry spell here in northern Minnesota. When precipitation came down, it was snow. Thus, my owlets had not really experienced a cold downpour. As long as snow is not wet, the birds can shake off the white stuff. That ended early this morning starting around 4 am. When the rain ended at 8:30 am, I hiked over to the nest area. The chicks did not look happy!
Waterlogged Great Horned Owl Chicks
A happier owlet in the sun late yesterday afternoon
The term “snow birds” normally refers to some of my fellow Minnesotans that spend their winters in Florida or Arizona, but in this case I use the words to call out some returning song birds to the Northwoods. My wife and I drove 100 miles south to meet our son and daughter-in-law for a “social distance hike”. During our hike I found some birds which I have not yet seen near Lake Superior, were enjoying the spring weather (50’s and bright sun).
Yellow-Rumped Warbler
Purple Martin (these birds do not live in my area … too cold)
In addition, I made a trip over to the Lester Golf Course ponds which are near my house. My poor Bluebird couple was trying to defend five bird houses from the recently arrived tree swallows.
Tree Swallows trying to take over a birdhouse
Blue-Winged Teal taking a migration break.
Finally all continues well over at the Great Horned Owl nest. These two siblings are really starting to walk around their “home” white pine. The first image was taken right at sunset last night. This morning I found the pair hanging out 20 yards away on the opposite side of the tree … and ten feet higher up … morning sun! Given they are not able to fly, it was quite the walk, but their talons now have great grip strength.
Let’s here it for Moms everywhere. Soon it will be Mother’s Day, and these fine females raise the kids, guard the home, and teach their young how to conquer the world. With Great Horned Owls, our Mom has to put up with crow attacks all day long. During the night she hunts (along with Dad) to bring home the bacon. It’s amazing Mom ever gets any sleep? Sound familiar, you human Moms? Great Horned Owl Moms lead a tough life.
Thus … Mom, the Great Horned Owl (also known as Amy … photographed at sunset last night and sunrise this morning)
Her triplets … the youngsters she keeps safe. (photographed this morning)
Yesterday, this Bald Eagle stretched its wings in salute to Mom! (photographed at my local Wisconsin wetlands yesterday morning)