It's Coming

Since we are now into February,it is time to look ahead to what is to come.

February 18 is the start of the official Hawkcount in southern Manitoba.

I am looking forward to frequent trips to the Pembina Valley where we hope there will be lots of action this year.

A blue sky and birds like this immature Bald eagle flying low over the valley is what we are all hoping for.

Of course we see lots more than just birds of prey,or Raptors,as they are called.

Across the road from where we stand to look for the raptors,the Eastern Bluebirds are often at the nest box to entertain us when the action is the sky is slow.

Sometimes some drama unfolds before our eyes.Here a Raven was harassing an eagle.Not a wise choice in my opinion,but it made for some excitement and good photo opportunities.

I might add that they both flew away unharmed.

A dark phase Red-tailed Hawk is a thrill at anytime,but even more so when the sun is shinning in that clear sky.

In my opinion,this is my all time favourite Bald Eagle picture.The sun was getting close to dipping below the horizon and the golden light of evening gave this eagle a wonderful warm glow.

All of the above photos are from the migration time of 2012.

Here is a bonus picture. I put together this collage to showcase the Bald Eagle.

Some pictures are from 2012,but some are also from earlier years.

Keep watching this blog,as I will hopefully be adding new pictures from the migration of 2013.

I do hope the numbers will be way up from last year,but whatever it will be,I am looking forward to seeing old friends and making new ones as we watch the skies over the Pembina Valley.