TGIF

TGIF, and I mean that seriously this week. Work has been so draining that I have not had much energy to get out there and bird during the week so I was rearing to go this afternoon as I sat at my desk and looked out at the blue skies that finally decided to appear.

I decided to do my usual Friday ritual which was to go to St. Philips. I like going here on Friday because I don't need to think much. I know the wetlands well enough that all I have to do is find a log and wait for the birds to come to me which they always do. The photos above are of a male Northern Mockingbird. Let me tell you, he did the best Eastern Phoebe imitation I have ever heard. I watched him do it and it was so good I thought maybe I was imagining it, so looked around to see if there was one around.

One of my favorite birds to photograph as you all know by now which is the humble Song Sparrow. What is it about these birds that always make them look like they had a rough night?

Another one doing a goofy pose. Such comical little birds.

And speaking of Eastern Phoebe's, there was a family of three out at the wetlands today. This one was right on a branch in front of me and proceeded to have its dinner without giving me a glance.

Another pose. I never knew how large their head was in comparison to their body until I saw this picture.

And then check out this shot. Look at the eye stripe on its eye. It totally threw me for a loop because none of my field guides have it. I was 100% convinced it was a Phoebe until I saw this and then proceeded to spend 15 minutes going through pages of flycatchers just to make sure. Sigh, it's tough being a newbie. ;o)

Here it is diving down toward the water to get another bug!! Wish the grass wasn't in the way. Murphy's Law.

Another shot.

Record shot of a Brown Thrasher. The first I have seen at St. Philips!

And last, my weekly photo of one of the Green Herons. This one got so close to me that I didn't even have to zoom much.

Have a great weekend everyone!