Everything is just ducky

Raft

This is a Common Loon nesting on a floating raft made by local Loon Rangers in Gaylord, Michigan. This raft keeps the babies safe from predators which is especially important as Michigan's Loon population is declining.

It is important to note that you should never get too close to a nesting Loon. They are very sensitive and will abandon the nest if disturbed. Best to use your zoom lens from a far distance. They typically have two loon chicks which learn to swim within a day. I hope to get photos of the babies soon!

Grosbeak Glory

Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind.

~Dr. Seuss

Singing Goldfinch

A bird doesn't sing because it has an answer, it sings because it has a song.

~Maya Angelou

Barred Owl

“A wise old owl sat on an oak; The more he saw the less he spoke; The less he spoke the more he heard; Why aren't we like that wise old bird?”

-Author Unknown



This is a Barred-Owl that I was able to meet in person at the Kirtland Warbler Festival recently. As he was injured and cannot be released back into the wild, he is used for education by a wildlife rehabilitation organization.

Everyone have a safe Memorial weekend! Remember those who sacrificed who us and continue to do so!

Sweet Female Grosbeak

Beauty is not in the face; beauty is a light in the heart.

~Kahlil Gibran

Great Horned Owl

An animal's eyes have the power to speak a great language.

~Martin Buber



*Rescued Great Horned Owl - now part of ARK's wildlife education program.

Red-winged Blackbird

This is a female Red-winged blackbird. She is vastly different from the striking male with his black feathers and red bars on his wings. But still, as I watched the plain female, I decided she had her own quiet beauty.