
Carolina Wren, Chicago Portage
However deceiving the weather may be, the birds are on schedule. I checked on the Portage and McGinnis Slough last Sunday morning. A grey, chilly day, with a forecast of some snow in the arfternoon. But this lovely singing Carolina Wren was my reward at the Portage. He was a bit too far away to get the clearest image, but he kept on singing.

Song Sparrow, Chicago Portage
And of course a Song Sparrow announced his presence.
And a Canada Goose blowing in the wind.
However common Mallards, the males are beautiful this time of year.
And an American Robin for good measure.
The Portage was just barely waking up.

McGinnis Slough
So I went to check McGinnis Slough.

Bufflehead
Most of the waterfowl was, as usual, far away, but I managed a picture of this male Bufflehead.

Red-Bellied Woodpecker
One of two Red-Bellied Woodpeckers checking out this tree stump.
Many Grackles, this one caught in flight.

Yellow-Rumped Warbler
And my first warbler of the year – predictably a Yellow-Rumped Warbler, but still very nice to see.
Your photos are a sure sign of Spring..Lovely.
Thanks, Syl. I think we need the birds to remind us winter is over. 🙂
Not too shabby for a chilly, un-spring day!
Thanks, Jo Ann. The waterfowl I didn’t get pictures of at McGinnis were spectacular…more Ring-Necked Ducks than I have seen anywhere.
As always, I love your collection of snapshots of spring birds, Lisa. That singing Carolina Wren is a gem, and the Bufflehead is a cutie. 🙂
Gee, thanks, Bob! I was just so thrilled to see the wren, Carolinas have been eluding me for a long time. I guess with climate change that might not be the case too much longer…
I love that first shot of the Carolina Warbler, the shape of the open beak is so interesting.
Thanks. Yeah it is kind of a beak of distinction on the wren. I don’t think I would have noticed it as much if the camera hadn’t captured it.
Nice captures Lisa, I can see that Spring is in the cold side yet, just like here northwest GA. 🙂
Thanks, H.J. Yes, we’ve had a little warmup but we’re not quite out of the cold yet. Sun is shining today!