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Author Archives: Teri J Pieper

Spring Birding

The girls and I had a field trip day at the big river this week. Somehow, we picked the nicest day ever this year, so far. It got up to 64 and sunny with clear blue skies! I had hoped we might see or hear some cranes but no luck. I feel like they are late getting up here. We did see many herons and cormorants on their nests and flying back and forth. Also, a few raptors, lots of ducks, some loons (maybe some that we see during the summer in the Highlands?), killdeer, many blackbirds, a pair of grebes I have not identified (probably Horned or Eared) and others. And a beaver. Willow found lots of sticks and stinky things. And she likes to watch birds. Sky really just enjoyed the day, getting in and out of the river and finding her own sticks. If you look closely at the big nest near the end, you will see the top of the head of its resident.

Scenes I Don’t See Everyday

Deep green moss. Old pilings. Ferns growing out of a tree trunk. A blue chair. Beach sunsets.

Scenes at the Beach

The weather was good while we were at the beach and we spent many hours walking. There were not a lot of birds around, mostly crows and gulls. We saw just one flock of peeps. There was an eagle nest across the river and we could see them coming and going but no good views of the nest.

Beach Dogs

We spent a few days at the beach, mainly to dig for razor clams but also for a much needed change of scenery for me. Winter has gone on for five months and I needed to see something besides snow and ice. The dogs were happy too. Willow got to run and run and swim in a river too. She’s a natural in the water. And all the smells! It was very stimulating for a seven month old puppy. Sky liked it too. They made new dog friends everywhere we went. And they found sticks. And a floor mat from someone’s car.

Breakfast Guest

One sunny morning last week, this lovely bird joined me as I ate breakfast. She probably enjoyed her suet more than I enjoyed my oatmeal.