Happy Leap Day!

I hope you’re able to make the most out of your bonus day. In Estabrook Park, the recent cold snap lasted through the night, and it was even colder this morning than yesterday, but the sky was still clear as a bell, and the wind is even lighter, so it was very nice. I was able to count a lot of birds, but most seemed too busy for pictures today. Perhaps they are all trying to make the most of their bonus day, too.

There were a few outliers, thankfully, and this cardinal by the pond was one. He parked so close that I had to zoom out to fit him all in the frame. Plus, he stayed put for a beat even after looking me right in the eye. Maybe it was an “I meant to do that” moment for him.

The grackles were still at the pond, as well, and this one put on quite a show with his splayed tail feathers and iridescent blue head feathers.

The solo wood duck drake was still there, too, and his head feathers were popping a nice iridescent green with just a splash of pink behind the eye.

Finally, the cold wasn’t enough to form much ice on the pond nor keep this muskrat in its burrow, and here it is showing just how waterproof its fur is. Notice the little pool of water on its back.

See you in March!