Col Sam Smith Park - Loony tunes

[What was that?]

So much to see, even for a novice like me.

Common Loon, trawling up and down the shoreline, only around 50' off shore. Best views I have ever had.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/39167841@N06/4536179772/

Never been able to get close for a decent shot of the Red breasted Mergansers, these were somewhat more toleraant of my big footed stalking mode.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/39167841@N06/4535545093/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/39167841@N06/4536178170/

Common Goldeneye comes into teh same category as Mergansers, not photo friendly usually. Found this one sunbathing before he took to the water.
Seemed a little gimpy in one wing. Perhaps thats my best chance, aim for the disabled ones
http://www.flickr.com/photos/39167841@N06/4536175248/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/39167841@N06/4535543209/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/39167841@N06/4535542209/

And for a bit of colour - Goldfinch
http://www.flickr.com/photos/39167841@N06/4535540003/

A little more dull perhaps, but still interesting (for me), the Brown Headed Cowbirds
http://www.flickr.com/photos/39167841@N06/4536181694/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/39167841@N06/4535548951/

This chappy did a low level flyby, along with a couple of thousand others, all within a minute or so. I was right beneath them and impressive to hear the wingbeats of so many. The only thing that challenged them was the buzzing of millions of blackfly (my protein content for the day has gone up, definitely need some floss).
http://www.flickr.com/photos/39167841@N06/4536180918/
(Double Crested Cormorant).

Great time of year to get out. I think I need to try Brickworks on Wednesday. See if any warblers are starting to appear.

Graham

[ravynne40]

Great shots, hope you don't mind i posted comments on your flickr page.

[What was that?]

My wife thinks I am excessively critical of my own shots, so any comments are welcome (either positive or not so positive).
Thanks very much.

Graham

[ravynne40]

I think we are all critical of our own work, but it is those on this list that inspire me to always try to take better shots. I study them and try to learn from the more experienced birders/photographers
sometimes i do ok..sometimes..not so much. We all have our moments LOL..and then there are days when you have to come home cuz you forgot to put the batteries into the camera!

have a great day

Irene
(who NOW has batteries and an extra to spare)

[What was that?]

I hear you. I drove to Second Marsh one day last year. 45 min at least. Got out my camera kit, put the belt around my waist and looked for the camera.
45 minute drive home
Quiet day.

Graham
(never mind the batteries, where can I get a new/spare brain)