Reifel and Boundary

[Chris]

Did some birding at Reifel and then Boundary Bay. It was nice to get out before the incoming weather and also before I go back to work.

Reifel was enjoyable like usual. Really high numbers of Shovelers. A close estimation tallied 280 of them. Got a few photos


Northern Shoveler at Reifel Bird Sanctuary


Northern Shoveler at Reifel Bird Sanctuary


Good numbers of Gadwall as well. An underappreciated species of waterfowl I think.


Gadwall at Reifel Bird Sanctuary


Thousand or so Snow Geese were well offshore. It was nice to see a Rail and hear another one. Managed to see two Ruddy Ducks.

There were three Ring-necked Ducks that were quite tame


Ring-necked Duck at Reifel Bird Sanctuary



Ring-necked Duck at Reifel Bird Sanctuary


Great to see the numerous songbirds as well. 

Next stop was 72nd at Boundary Bay. Highlight was three Short-eared Owls


Short-eared Owl at Boundary Bay - 64th-72nd Sts., Delta

Had five Purple Finch and YR Warblers. A few herons were out feeding as well.


Great Blue Heron at Boundary Bay - 64th-72nd Sts., Delta

[Gord]

Nice photos and report. I agree on the Gadwall. They fly under the radar but are really sharp ducks!

[Randy]

Jan 7, 2024 21:11:08 GMT -8 Gord said:

Nice photos and report. I agree on the Gadwall. They fly under the radar but are really sharp ducks!

I also agree! Chris, your photo really highlights the cool patterns in their plumage!