What a surprise. Someone came for the bird tour at 8:30. Only one person, but that’s better than nothing considering the time of year.
So what did we see? Not a whole lot, but the young eagles cooperated and were perched nearby to start the foggy morning.
I did chase up a couple of marsh wrens, a common snipe, and an osprey.
I ended up the tour here at Flat Lake, so the gentleman could at least see the large gathering of trumpeter swans at their loafing spot. Bird tours would be a lot more exciting to my way of thinking if they were conducted in May and June.
Not much else happened today. As you can see, I sat outside with Emma this evening and enjoyed the remaining hummingbirds visiting the feeder. I’ve been invited to return to Tamarac NWR next summer, so I have a little thinking to do. I’ve enjoyed my time here, despite the ticks, mosquitoes, and deer flies. The location also enables me to visit now and then with my kids and grandkids, so that’s a big pull to return.
My duties next year would change since the renovated visitors center will once again be open, and the MN Breeding Bird Atlas work ended this summer. Well, I’ve got some time to decide, but I’m leaning toward returning. Maybe I can talk them into bird tours when there are more birds around.
I’ve been plagued today with a sneezing attack. I get that every once in a while, but don’t know the cause. I bet I’ve sneezed over 100 times today. There’s just this tickle in my nose. I don’t think it means I’m coming down with anything or allergic to anything, but it just happens some times. Short but sweet tonight…
Thanks for stopping by… talk to you later, Judy
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Your hummingbird pictures are awesome! I'm glad someone showed up. The folks there must like you a lot to invite you back...job well done!
ReplyDeleteGood for you and the kids.
ReplyDeleteAt least like you said 1 visitor is better than none.
Your suggestion of earlier bird tours sounds like a winner.
I'm surprised even one showed up this time of year. But having you as their personal guide was sure a plus for them. Wonderful hummingbird pics. Love them.
ReplyDeleteLet's see... what does a sneezing attack signify? Someone's thinking of you? (nah) You're going to be kissed soon? (hmm?) It's Saturday? Yep, that must be it!
ReplyDeleteDecisions, decisions -- shucks, you'll know what and where when the time comes! Best wishes to you!
I suspect every refuge invites you back. Lots of pros and cons there. Surprised you didn't consider the heat one of them. It sure surprised me how hot it was there.
ReplyDeleteIt's no wonder they want you back. Not everyone can paint signposts as nicely as you do! :cD
ReplyDeletePlus being close to your kids and grandkids, for some reason, we can understand that draw!
It's nice to be wanted, and I'm sure you will have plenty of options. Great hummingbird pics.
ReplyDeleteThe hIummers are great! I suspect that they have to do bird tours when they have visitors that want them.
ReplyDeleteTerrific shots of the hummingbirds - amazing.
ReplyDeleteWell at least one person showed up for the tour. Glad you found a few birds to view.
ReplyDeleteSo glad you are thinking of coming back next year. The midwest enjoys having you as a summer resident!!!
ReplyDeleteWe're not surprised at all that you were invited to return. That's always a nice feeling.
ReplyDeleteit's always nice to feel wanted. . .and appreciated. . .being near the grands is a great bonus!
ReplyDeleteWell, I for one am not surprised that they asked you back. They would be nuts to let a great post painter, bird tour guide and over-all neat person slip through their fingers.
ReplyDeleteGlad you had someone to share your bird knowledge with today.
The Hummers are still hanging around here, but pretty soon they will be headed South...Sure wish we were doing the same...
ReplyDeleteI always enjoy your bird pictures and the hummers tonight were especially nice.
ReplyDeleteGreat hummingbird photos.
ReplyDeleteI get sporadic sneezing fits too. It seems that in the last month I've sneezed intermittently and for no reason sometimes up to 20 times in a row. Then nothing for a day or two and then it tarts again. Oh well, I refuse to think it's allergies 'cause I'm moving around the country so much and it doesn't happen in response to any one thing. Mostly, it's just itchy nose syndrome!
great pics....we very seldom get a hummer at our feeder. when you see us maybe you can
ReplyDeletegive us some pointers..as far as heat there wasnt that very unusual for Mn?
How about ragweed or the pollen count? I'd be thrilled to see a few eagles of any age, and those swans are gorgeous.
ReplyDeleteThat person got lucky and had a private tour; )
ReplyDeleteIt is a nice place minus ticks and skeeters! Talk to the scheduler about changing the bird program. They must be doing big work at the Visitors Center since it is taking so long, I have not been in the visitors center since it opened...we usually just drive right by. The best part of Tamarac is coming up with the change of colors..I hope the dry weather and hot spell didn't bother the fall colors:)
ReplyDeleteLove watching the hummers.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the hummer photos...have never been able to get any here. You are an asset to them, and you enjoyed it. Maybe they wouldn't make you paint posts...that would be good I think. On the other hand, you haven't exactly said you didn't like painting posts, so maybe I am putting my feelings on you! Take your time and think about it. I bet you could convince them of earlier bird tours for sure.
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