Birding: Redheads, Downy and a Pygmy Owl

Being a birder – and a driver – can be a tricky business. For instance: it is never wise to slam on the brakes just because you have spotted a Pygmy Owl! But if you signal dutifully and pull over safely on a wide shoulder, you can avoid annoying tail-gaters and survive to bird another day. And, if you are very lucky, the bird will still be there when you go back to find it. Well, the other day I got lucky. There was indeed a Pygmy Owl by the side of the road that waited patiently while I watched it and snapped a few photos. I like Pygmy Owls!

A Northern Pygmy Owl watching me watching it!

Birding on foot is usually much safer. Unless of course you are looking up instead of watching your step on icy trails or in a snow-covered marsh. But the Nelson waterfront is usually quite safe and a great place to see over-wintering waterfowl. These Redhead Ducks stood out in the coot flotilla.

A male and female Redhead Ducks

A male Redhead Duck

A male and female Redhead Duck

Perhaps the safest birding is at your own bird-feeder. The red splotch on this Downy’s head added great colour to a grey winter photo. I love watching birds – especially in winter when birding takes a bit more effort. And when birds can add such colour to an otherwise grey day.

A male Downy Woodpecker at my feeder.

all photos and writing copyright J.A. Siderius 2014