More Neighborhood Birds

Spring is bringing more birds to the area, but it's amazing that they are so few and far between...I seem to remember seeing and hearing many more birds years ago. I guess the 21th century world is taking it's toll. As early as four years ago, Science Daily posted this article on the subject: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/06/070614173737.htm

In any event, here are some of my recent shots:

Northern Cardinal. Note, his leg has been banded. Wonder by whom?

 Blue Heron on the Lake. Look closely: what is he standing on? A Beutyrest, separate coil mattress??? In my lake?

 "Lovey Dovey" (Mourning Doves)

 Tufted Titmouse 1

 Tufted Titmouse 2

 Downy Woodpecker (female)

 Downy Woodpecker (Male)

 American Robin

 American Goldfinch. This little guy moves around so fast it was nearly impossible to get this shot. This is a serious cropping job. Here is the original shot below (see his mate in the tree, over to the left?):

American Goldfinch (uncropped)

 

Correction: Osprey. This is not a hawk, as was pointed out by my fellow bird expert Rosanne. This guy (girl?)  was with two others hunting over our lake. A minute later, he swooped down into the water, grabbed something to eat and flew away with whatever if was in his claws. We couldn't see what it was because he was obscured by the shrubs around the lake as he flew away.