Horned Grebe, Palm Warblers and Winter Wren at Middle Creek

As it was a rather mild day (no strong winds like we have been having) today, I decided to go birding at my favorite location - Middle Creek.

I arrived at stop 1 ands began glassing the visitors center pond...there where the usually Coots, Mallards, Black Ducks, Ring Necked Ducks, and Green Winged Teal. But there was also a surprise - a breeding plumage Horned Grebe - see below.

There was also a non-breeding plumage Horned and a Pie Billed Grebe as well.

After, watching the Grebe for quite some time and talking to several other birders, I decided it was time to move on. I decided to make a quick trip around the tour road...I no sooner entered and saw some borders moving around the edge of the road...looking thur my bins...they turned out to be Palm Warblers...the FOY warblers for me and surprise #2.

Palm Warbler

 After watching the warblers, I continued on the tour road until the end...making the turn unto the main road..i noticed some movement...I pulled the car over and checked it out - it was a Winter Wren...surprise #3 for the day.

Winter Wren

 I ended my 3 hour visit with a total of 38 species....and several first of year (FOY) species.

Until next time

Good Birding