There is something contradictory about seeing a Great Blue Heron standing motionless on ice appearing to be frozen in time, while the temperatures outside are so balmy. Neck stretched up straight, leaning forward, black plumes dangling, legs stationary, perfectly still waiting patiently. What a welcome sight returning to Woodlake Nature Center one of the first arrivals even before the ice disappears.
The Marsh quiet for so many months, has begun to play the sweet music of the returning regular species. Awareness of their arrival has been heightened with volumns of sound that seems boisterous in comparison to winter. Cattails, furry spikes that now show off Red-winged Blackbirds, setting up their command posts adding texture to the Marsh. Three Ring-billed Gulls flew over, but the ice is still thick except for around the edges where the Mallards hang out. Seeing and hearing the Song Sparrows, Fox Sparrows, and White-throated Sparrows today, as well as the American Tree Sparrows, and Dark-eyed Juncos that are still here was a big boost in enjoying the Marsh Trails. Conny Brunell Richfield, Hennepin Cty [email protected]
