After the Portage weekend it felt like time to revisit the Yellow-Headed Blackbirds and maybe get to see a Black Tern, so I got up early on the 30th — a month ago already! — and went to Goose Lake Natural Area near Hebron. I am beginning to absolutely love this place, except for the hour-and-a-half it takes to get there, but of course that’s why it’s so special. I hope to go back sometime this coming weekend – after I visit the other Goose Lake, which is less of a drive in the opposite direction.
The Yellow-Headed Blackbirds were on their territories and the one closest to the trail was easier to see than last time. I think I caught an obscure photo of a female in the top center of the photos below.
The Yellow Warbler below stayed partially hidden, but I caught up with its cousin later.
There were plenty of Red-Winged Blackbirds, but the males didn’t offer themselves up for photos. They probably know they are not the main attraction at this place. Below are couple females.
On the walk back to the car I spotted the Wild Turkey below. It was flushed by people approaching from the other direction.
I left thinking I had missed the Black Terns but found this photograph of a fleeting glimpse of one leaving the area.
A family of Pied-Billed Grebes below – I think mom was trying to show the kids how to find food.
I managed to capture the female Belted Kingfisher below flying across the water and then the marsh, looking for a place to perch with her catch.
Willow Flycatchers like this place too.
A couple Great Egrets flew over.
A Common Yellowthroat was bold enough to look me in the lens.
I heard the Great-Crested Flycatcher below before I managed to barely see him when I first hit the trail.
A bit puzzled by the nest in the reeds below until it proved to be an American Robin sitting on it. So they do nest in places other than trees and the fascia of suburban houses.
A male Mallard flew by, reminding me that he’s a beautiful bird too.
I’ve been busy at work, so goes the bulk of my laptop time. Hoping for a bit of a respite this coming weekend, and not too many deafening firework explosions. Summer is definitely upon us. Take a deep breath.
I think that the Goose Lake Natural Area is a great place to find al kinds of birds, just like you did. As long as you have a sunny day. 🙂
Next time, mosquitoes! Especially with all the rain we’ve been having. Only that long walk through the wooded area though… 🙂
Nice!
Thanks, Linda! It’s always worth the drive once I get there. 🌝
The walk looks delightful and you managed to see a great number of birds as usual. I wish that you could come and do a walk with me and then I might see a lot more birds with your guidance.
I would love to walk with you in your beautiful surroundings. Thank you for giving me a post-pandemic dream. 🙂
Love the Yellow-Headed Blackbirds. Have never seen one.
I love them too! But yeah, you have to travel to find these guys. They don’t hang out in Cook County much. This is probably the best place in the state to see them. 🙂