After the Deer Run Bird Survey yesterday (and seeing a LOT of flyover waterfowl) we decided to drive over to Rock Cut State Park to see if Pierce Lake was opening up. There were still ice fishermen, so we weren’t too hopeful, but then we noticed a small patch of open water and headed over to get a closer look.
There was a good variety of ducks, a couple Common Goldeneyes, Hooded Mergansers, tens of Common Mergansers and Ring-necked Ducks, and one Bufflehead. There were the usual Canada Geese, Mallards, Ring-billed and Herring Gulls, and the loudly returned Red-winged Blackbirds. Other returning birds included a large number of Turkey Vultures feasting on a deer carcass and a few Tree Swallows.
As we were observing the TV feast, we noticed a Coyote walking across the ice. He looked right at our dog, Socks, for a few moments before retreating to the woods. Dakota was incredibly impressed with both the Turkey Vultures and the Coyote. It was a great time. Now if it would only warm up a little!
All About Birds
{ 6 comments… read them below or add one }
Sandpiper727 03.16.08 at 9:41 am
Great pictures! I really like your blog!
mon@rch 03.16.08 at 2:46 pm
Sounds like such a wonderful day and I love the fact you found the Coyote!
Larry 03.16.08 at 7:09 pm
I’m always fascinated when I see Coyotes.-They have been living near our neighborhood which is a danger to people who let their pets outside.-It’s amazing hjow they survive with the dwindling land around here.-Terrific photos!
The Birdfreak Team 03.17.08 at 9:08 am
Sandpiper727 - Thanks so much, we like your blog also!
Mon@rch - We were surprised to see it walking so nonchalantly on the ice, it was so nice!
Larry - There was a story not long ago about a coyote that found its way to downtown Chicago, I wish they had more habitat.
Moe 03.18.08 at 8:21 pm
That is a great post, and great shot of the coyote!
The Birdfreak Team 03.19.08 at 3:52 pm
Thanks Moe!