Any clue as to what they are? If you look very closely you will be able to see bits of red and orange feathers, making it seem like these were from a Red-winged Blackbird. Perhaps a Peregrine Falcon grabbed a snack? Hmm...
It is the time of year for the Northern Gannet show. A few decades ago such a thing was unheard of. Our Senior Director of Science and Conservation, Milan Bull, was telling me about a sighting of two birds he had in Westport around that time that hardly anyone believed. Now they're almost common at some points of the year on the coast. These magnificent birds can be frequently seen soaring over Long Island Sound and plunge-diving into the water for their meals in March. They will even fly over land at Stratford Point. Suffice it to say, you can get some amazing views of these birds there. They keep neglecting to do that while I am on the perimeter and have my camera ready, though...
Speaking of Mr. Bull, here he is with our friend Tom Sayers who kindly stopped by to help us ready the American Kestrel box he installed last fall. We have had a few of the species pass through, though none have shown interest in it yet. It is early enough in the season, and the next couple of weeks should tell us whether or not we will have a pair spending the spring and summer with us. Fingers crossed...
Lastly, here is a sign of spring despite the snow and cold, a White-crowned Sparrow. While there are some in the state in the winter, there have been none at Stratford Point, and we can assure you this was a migrant bird. It is going to be rough migration weather until we change the pattern, which may be in the first week of April. Slow but steady is the name of the game for now...
Photos © Scott Kruitbosch
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