Horned Grebe

The wind blew this Horned Grebe right to me all the way across the impoundment on Saturday.  He's transitioning into breeding plumage which I sure would like to see. 

Horned Grebe

Sunshine, warmth, and a Horned Grebe today.  This water will likely freeze up tomorrow so it might be my last view of this friendly guy.  He's been hanging out with the Rudy Ducks today and yesterday.  I moved in close for a photo and he surprised me by leaving the ducks to come closer and investigate.

Exploring

I have vivid memories of “exploring” new territories as a child.  Each time we moved or visited some place new presented an opportunity to go exploring.  I love to go exploring.  Ever since I started birding I’ve found I can explore the same places over and over again, every time finding something new.  This time my discovery is these Horned Grebes who were hanging out with the Buffleheads of whom I was trying to get a decent photo.  These two photos below I shot about an hour later.  I'm amazed at how much color the black part of the head contains.