Birding by boat-Am White Pelicans

There are still several hundred American White Pelicans around John Martin Res and the small Lake Hasty that is the small impoundment below the dam. We only saw a few Double-crested Cormorants. In addition to a number of Western Grebes, there were a few Eared, Horned and Pied-billed Grebes. A number of waterfowl were present including some Ruddy Ducks, Gadwalls and Buffleheads. SeEtta

Birding by boat-Great Horned Owl

This Great Horned Owl appeared comfortable with our approach by boat and, in my experience, let us approach closer than many of this species would usually allow if we were afoot. This owl was perched on the low cliffs that ring part of the shore and would not have been viewable except by boat.

We also saw a Bald Eagle when we came in to eat our lunch as well as an Osprey and a Redtail Hawk. There were several Northern Harriers working the area and sometimes they spooked some small shorebirds or waterfowl. SeEtta

Birding by boat at John Martin Res

My Audubon chapter in collaboration with he Colo Div of Wildlife, and assistance from Colo State Parks, conducted a birding trip by boat on John Martin Res. That reservoir is quite difficult to bird as it is very large with heavy sand on the south shore and rugged 2-track roads on the north. Though it was windy, it warmed up to the 70's and was warm even though we were on the water. I'm a real wimp when it comes to being cold but I was warm enough to take off my coat in the afternoon.

The neat thing about being on a boat is that many birds are less concerned about an approach from the water than on foot or even by vehicle. So it is often possible to get closer and see species such as shorebirds that often must be viewed from a distance through a spotting scope.

The highlight was a small flock of American Pipits but I only got to see them in flight and didn't get any pics of them. But I did get this pic of a Greater Yellowlegs, one of several we saw along the shore. More in next post. SeEtta