Stalking my heart’s desire (warning, this post has gone to the birds)

I found an opportunity today to drive way across town, and end up with a couple hours free in the George C. Reifel Bird Sanctuary. I haven’t visited since this last time.

Oh what luck! This is such a wonderful place, where one can get this close to the birds. Close enough to count the drops on the drake’s back! 😀

And the animals are so tame that one doesn’t need a super telephoto lens.

A marshland/delta/ocean view location, ideal for all sorts of wildlife.

Like beautiful wood ducks.

And American wigeon.

And pintails. Er…excuse me?

Ah, there you are. 😀

And, of course, the ubiquitous Canada geese.

Who are a bit neurotic and bitchy right now, hissing up a storm.

This is about the safest distance…unless you have bird seed in your pocket. It may be mating and egg time, but everyone is friendly for the bird seed!

And the sanctuary provides loads of nest boxes in all kinds of habitats,

So whether birds like trees, or marsh, or even for the do-it-yourselfers, there’s a nest, or materials for a nest really close at hand.

And many are already being occupied, like this one in the middle of a pond has been claimed by a pair of purple house martins.

I climbed up the three story tower to have a good look around.

It’s 360% from up here!

And up close and personal down there.

But the real reason I came, the real object of my heart’s desire, are those magical sandhill cranes.

A few are resident here. Last year they raised a couple chicks, but sadly the chicks disappeared and never grew to maturity.

I’m hoping for a better outcome this year.

Bye for now.

😀 OK, now I’m just writing silly lines to justify sticking one more picture into this post. But if only you know how many pictures I want to post and stop myself, you’d be impressed! 😀