April Visit to Quintana continued

American Redstart

Blessing Area, Quintana,Texas (continued)

Visit to Tejano Wetlands and Quintana

 We were blessed to visit the Blessing,Texas area. We enjoyed time with friends as well as visiting some great birding sites.  Tejano Wetlands was a new one for us. We saw the Common Goldeneye at the wetlands. This was a new bird for me.  My pictures were good for identification, not close enough for detail. I will be posting several series of photos from this trip. I will identify the birds for anyone new to birding. The Ruddy Turnstone was also a new bird for me. He was very interesting looking. The Upland Sandpiper and American pipit were abundant on our trip,as well as the Savannah Sparrow. The Black and White warbler, Northern Parula, American Redstart (immature), Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Baltimore and Orchard Orioles,Summer Tanager,Eastern Kingbird,Rose-breasted Grosbeak and Hooded Warbler entertained us as well.   A Common Yellowthroat gave us a quick look at the Wetlands.   While we were at Quintana a beautiful Great Crested Flycatcher sat in a nearby bush .  Lucky Me!!  Blessings!

Bluebirds, The Fight was on!

This experience with two male Eastern Bluebirds was definitely a scene we will not forget.  My husband first saw them on the ground, one holding the other down.  He called to me as he realized what was happening so that I could witness this battle with him.  I am sure we were standing with mouths open, staring in disbelief. Our nesting Bluebirds were defending their nest.   The invading male was apparently trying to take over or move into the resident Bluebird's territory.  I, of course, did not have my camera lens needed for close photos in this situation.  I was thankful to have my camera with me at all.  I grabbed it and started shooting, moving as close as I could to the birds. I do not believe the two males were aware of my presence at first.  They would notice me and fly to a nearby tree later.  The feathers flew, face to face battle as you could not imagine of two small birds! Crazy! Amazing!  This was an amazing display of defending one's home.  I know that we will not forget this day!  Blessings!!!