This post covers part of last week also.
I finally got a chance to see the Northern Hawk Owl that had been reported behind the International Airport. I made my way out past Point Woranzof and found several other birders with their huge scopes already there, getting what I'm sure where some amazing shots. I grabbed my little Canon SX50 and zoomed up as close as I could get. This is one of those times where my camera leaves me wanting. But hey, a sighting is a sighting and I couldn't have been more excited. I went back the next day and on they way saw a small flock of Pine Grosbeaks. I was able to get quite a few photos before heading back over to see the owl again.
Yesterday I had the day off work so I used the opportunity to head over to Kincaid Park to an area that has had reports of Snow Bunting according to ebird.com. It was a fairly quiet walk over to the bluff overlooking the flats, except for the Brown Creeper and Black-capped Chickadee's I saw.
Once there, I sat and listened on a bench for 10 minutes or so. I thought I heard a flock of birds several times but did not see anything as I looked around. I walked around a bit, trying to get better views of the flats below. Finally, I was able to see a large flock of birds out on the flats, so after a few long distance photos, I decided to make my way down and see if I could get closer.
It turns out that there was a huge flock of Common Redpoll's fluttering from spot to spot eating seeds. It was quite the spectacle to behold as over 100 little birds moved here and there. I was able to get some decent shots although they are quick little birds.
I also happened to see what I came out there for, Snow Bunting. Only a few, but enough to get a positive ID and ad them to my 2015 list. That makes 68 for me this year so far. Two more to go.
Today I went out for my lunch hour to Chester Creek at Spenard Crossing. I saw: Bohemian Waxwing, Steller's Jay, Black-capped Chickadee, Boreal Chickadee, Common Rave, Common Merganser, Mallard, Black-billed Magpie, Red-breasted Nuthatch, and a probably Golden-crowned Kinglet although I did not get a positive ID. I had a lot of fun out there, even though it was a little chilly. But if you dress right for the weather, it can be an enjoyable experience.
Something I learned out yesterday, is this. Birding can teach us valuable lessons. Since starting to seriously birdwatch, I have developed a great ear for hearing them, and eyes to see them. I am always "tuned" to a bird whether I hear it or see it. I can spot the slightest movement in a tree or flying far away, or hear the slightest peep. I spend time out in the woods watching and listening for them.
Which brings me to today's lesson. Do I want to hear from God? Do I want to be "tuned" into His voice, leading, and direction? Do I have ears to hear, and eyes to see Him? Spending time seeking Him out whether in His word, or in prayer is what facilitates those things. What we set our attention and focus on is what becomes reality for us.
That's all for now, until next time, look up and keep your binoculars handy.
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