Molting Horned Grebes

Today at Bald Eagle State Park there were quite a few Horned Grebes. They are not yet in their full breeding plumage but a few of them were working on it. I got photos of one grebe that was swimming close to shore and was starting to molt in some of the gold ear patch. One thing that really stuck out was the brilliant red eye, lending an evil look to the grebes.

Horned Grebe

Overall, Bald Eagle was really quiet today. The nice weather has pushed waterfowl further north but hopefully the rain and snow in the forecast will convince more birds to stop at the local lakes. There are still quite a few species I need including Canvasback, Common Goldeneye, Red-necked Grebe and all the scoters. Maybe the next few weeks will bring some of these species through the area.

Horned Grebe

Horned Grebe

Its not the clearest photo by I really like this one of the grebe diving into the water. The just pop a bit above the water, arch their back, and slip through the surface.

diving Horned Grebe