Twins!

It was a busy holiday weekend, so I was up early to see what was new at Great Meadows. There were plenty of the usual subjects. This Common Yellow-throat was along the path from the parking lot.



The juvenile Red-winged Blackbirds were busily flying around the Dike Trail. This one proudly displays the dragonfly fly it caught.


Being the first person of the day, I had to run the goose gauntlet. I've noticed that Canada Geese often stand on one leg. Looking closely at this photo, I think I may have found the reason why. Even they don't like stepping on the stuff!


On the back side of the Upper Impoundment we could hear the Virginia Rail calling. In a little while it appeared on the path. It was quickly followed by two chicks (the twins). These chicks have grown significantly in the last 1 1/2 weeks. They quickly disappeared into the woods by the river. The chicks couldn't be seen, but the adult continued to forage in the muddy area near the trail.







I was attracted to this cluster of Daisy Fleabane. The ladybud is just the cherry on the top of that sundae.



As the sun rose in the sky, the temperature started to soar. As I headed back to the car, I noticed a mink by the side of the Dike Trail. Unfortunately, I was in the wrong place compared to the sun. I tried to race by and turn to take a photo. Having "too much" lens, I unfortunately clipped off its tail.



At Great Meadows squirrels are not among the most popular photography subjects. However, I couldn't resist photographing this squirrel eating unripened Blueberries.