It’s been a busy month at the Chicago Portage and I can’t seem to get caught up. So I’m going to do a quick spree through some memorable photos. The weather has been up and down and it feels like spring migration is likewise in fits and starts. We are still feeling the effects of a lot of April rain. Here we go…

Two Wood Ducks flew over on April 12.

Two days later, I saw a Muskrat, an Osprey, a Golden-crowned Kinglet and a Chipping Sparrow.

On April 16, I got good looks at a White-throated Sparrow and a Yellow-rumped Warbler.

On April 20, I caught a moment between two Brown-headed Cowbirds.

A Golden-crowned Kinglet was practicing its acrobatic skills.

And there was a Ruby-crowned Kinglet whose crown I nearly saw.

I am already not paying much attention to Red-winged Blackbirds, but this one was tempting in flight.

Blue-gray Gnatcatchers are coming back.

Here’s another beautiful male Yelloiw-rumped Warbler.

And on April 23, I managed some action photos of the male Belted Kingfisher, also at the top of the post, who has shown up more frequently.

I am a little or a lot worn out, depending on the moment, from a very busy weekend with both mornings starting out at 4:30 AM. Sunrise getting earlier makes it a little easier. We are still experiencing cooler temperatures which are frustrating my attempts to keep up with the surge of green going on in the front and back yards. I try to remind myself I will soon be complaining about the heat. More Spring to follow…