Morning Birding Sepcies List | December 6, 2016

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Tuesday, December 6, 2016, 8AM – 11AM
Weather: overcast, 20° F
Location: Hallam Lake and North Star Nature Preserve

Species Identified

Canada goose Mallard Ring-necked duck Bald eagle (pictured above) Belted kingfisher Black-billed magpie American crow Black-capped chickadee White-breasted nuthatch American dipper House finch American goldfinch

Comments:
A cold, crisp morning provided great observations on the open water in the preserve, at seed feeders, on the Roaring Fork River, and on Hunter Creek. Ducks and geese were abundant on the lake, with three male Ring-necked Ducks actively feeding. Kingfishers were also actively feeding. Feeder birds were observed toward the end of the birding session, perhaps waiting out the cold morning. Our main highlight was an exciting Bald Eagle encounter: two adult Bald Eagles interacted and vocalized over the upper lake, giving us excellent observations and field experience as they perched, flew, and made some impressive swerving maneuvers at close range.  Our mini-lesson covered the area’s finches, providing key field marks for identifying these birds at your feeder.  Happy birding, and join us on December 31st for the Aspen are Christmas Bird Count! 

~ Rebecca Weiss, ACES Bird Guide

 

Photo by Zach, age 12