On Smith Reservoir this am (about 8:30), we spotted a gorgeous Common Loon, on its way into winter plumage, but still carrying an all-black bill and plenty of white mottling on the scapulars. As it was hanging out in the thin end of the lake, it was very easy to get good looks at. Smith Res is on Jewell Ave, just East of Kipling. Best viewing from the driveway into the apartment complex there. Also present on Smith were 7 (5 male and 2 female) Hooded Merganser.
Just North of Smith is East Reservoir, which had a good collection of winter ducks-- the most we've seen to date in one spot this year. Hundreds of birds included Redheads, Ring-necks, Wigeon, Gadwall, Buffleheads, and not a single Canada Goose. Cottonwood Lake (South of Jewell) had a good number of Ring-necks as well. The feeders at Red Rocks were active, but nothing out-of-the- ordinary-- Juncos, White-crowneds, Scrub Jays, House Finches, etc. Upon returning to the Smith Res area later, the loon was still present, and being watched by participants of a DFO trip. Dave Cameron Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to [email protected]. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to [email protected]. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en.
