Couldn't resist a peak into the Wet Woods today in celebration of Spring. The first notable observation is that the conditions are unusually dry. I'm hoping that this is simply because the ground is still partly frozen, or perhaps we just need some spring rains to start the flooding. And yes, we really do want it to be wet - the arriving migrants are going to need all those bugs that thrive in all those puddles! The good news is that everything else looks as it should; I did not notice any damage or missing trees caused by human activity.
There were only 4 returning species today: Red-winged Blackbirds, Grackles, Cowbirds, and Robins. I was hoping for an early Woodcock but no luck (too dry). Other species included a Red-tailed Hawk, the local Raven pair who are nesting again, Chickadees, Tree Sparrows and a few House Finch in the allotment gardens. Nearby at the Unwin Bridge, most of the wintering ducks have cleared out, but the lone Tundra Swan lingers on. Today he was performing his best head-bobs and some timid vocalizations near the Trumpeter Swans but they did not seem impressed. I hope he is able to connect with some migrating Tundras soon!
-Kris
p.s. For anyone new to the area, the "Wet Woods" is a local name for the wooded area at the base of Tommy Thompson Park.
