It was a dark and stormy morning…

So I waited a bit before venturing out, and it seems that all the birds just passing through had already gotten their worms and were either laying low, had already moved on, or had not yet arrived. Luckily, there were several regulars about who may have also waited the morning out with me.

At the pond, the young night-heron was back and nodding off near its usual spot.

I counted nine wood ducks today, and here’s a hen wondering if I’m the guy who feeds them bread from the bench on the west lawn, and if so, where’s the darn bread already.

Down at the river, a cormorant was back again and looking as satisfied as ever.

And a blue heron was taking a break from fishing and looking less contented.

Some big fish is thrashing in the water again, but I didn’t get a close enough look to identify them. Anyone know what’s running or spawning now?

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Further south, by the falls, the asters continue to thicken and the black-eyed Susans continue to hold on, which can make for a pretty mix.

By the mudflats, which have been pretty quiet lately, a male kingfisher posed for us on the top of this stick on the far shore.

And this young blue heron focused intently on fishing in the grass on the near shore.

Lastly, this young-looking grey catbird appears about ready to enjoy a tasty treat.

The forecast looks a little dryer for tomorrow morning, so let’s hope that holds.