Magic Moments with Red-necked Grebes and a Great Gray Owl

Well I went for a hike in the interior yesterday and came across some incredible things. As I was traipsing through the woods I ran into a sleeping beauty, a Great Gray Owl. His eyes look black here because he is just squinting to see who I am. I left him so he could resume his slumber. I have had some great moments with Boreal Birds recently. You can see my previous post on the ones I've seen, including a Northern Hawk-Owl HERE.

I also wanted to share a moving moment I had with a family of Red-necked Grebes. I saw 2 chicks but there could have been one more under the adult's wings. One little baby was poking his head out of mom or dad's back. I love watching Grebes, Loons and Swans with the young riding around on the adults' back, it's so special. One of the adults was out collecting food for the family. I am always amazed to see how good parents most birds are. I feel the same way when I watch this with loons. If you want to see my loon photos with chicks on the back and on the nest, please click HERE.

Anyways, this was the first time I had ever got so close to a Red-necked Grebe on a nest and I felt truly privileged to be in their presence.

Red-necked Grebe with baby on back and one under the wings - Photo: Melissa Hafting

Great Gray Owl waking from slumber - Photo: Melissa Hafting

Comments

  1. Wow, that is amazing, and great shots!

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    Replies
    1. Thanks Marnix! See you tomorrow on the young birder trip! Let's hope we get that chicken!

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  2. nice shot mel especially of the grebe and young

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