This is a weak edition of SS, but I always like to at least check in on the weekends. My birding was a little unfocused; I think migration winding down had a lot to do with it. I tried for shorebirds in the county with almost no success (I did, however, get some at the Liberty Loop in Sussex Co., where I had Semipalmated Plovers, Semipalmated Sandpipers, Greater Yellowlegs, and a Spotted Sandpiper). I also did a little atlasing. I know that’s not a real word. I think that I need to be patient and I will have success with it, but it’s slow going so far for me in my priority block. That said, I did manage to confirm one more species – Swamp Sparrow. Here’s some pics from the weekend (and one from a couple weeks ago – it was slim pickings this week).
They are wonderful pictures, Matt, showing the grace and beauty of the little creatures that give big joy. Since I’m not a birder, the bird names you mention that I’m not familiar with, I look up.
The heron reminded me of the first time I saw one up close, when I lived in England. There it was, standing at the edge of our fish pond, and I was amazed at how big it was. We netted the pond, after that day. Living in rural England awakened my awareness to the cycle of life and death in the lower kingdom of life. You birders are blessed with what you see closer through your lenses.
You are a birder Norma, you are just doing it your own way. Which I personally really appreciate. It’s the pure love of the creatures around us that fuels your interest; you are not bogged down by any lists or expectations. It’s nice to hear about your first Grey Heron in England, I actually remember my first one in Ireland – my wife took a fabulous photo of that bird in flight. I’m glad you are enjoying the blog and the pics, thanks for checking in. Matt