Red Throated Loon at Middle Creek

Today I decided to make a trip to Middle Creek WMA and see if any new species have arrived since my last visit - almost a week ago. As it was very windy and cold (about 40 F), I really wasn't expecting to see a lot...boy was I surprised.

As I scanned the lake from the boat launch area, I noticed a Loon. As the lake is fairly swallow, loons are very seldom seen here. I got out my scope for a better look and too determine the species...and sure enough it turned out to be a Red Throated Loon in winter plumage. This is the first Loon I have observed at Middle Creek in almost 4 years. I tried to get some photo's with my IPhone...mostly for rare ebird report..see below - not the best - but they are diagnostic enough to determine species. 

Also, at the stop 1 pond where - Coots, Green Winged Teal, Buffleheads, Ring Billed Ducks, Lesser Scaup, Northern Shovelers, Canadian Goose and Snow Geese

I ended my visit with a total of 51 species - not a bad day after all.   

Until next time

Not all that wander are lost.