Lake Hemet, the largest watering hole nearby, must look quite inviting to birds as they are flying overhead. For this reason, it is a great place to go birding to see resident birds as well as those who stay a short while during migration.
A couple of weeks ago, we observed the newly arrived Osprey.
He clutched his freshly caught fish for the longest time under his talons. I guess he was waiting for the right moment to eat it but I kept thinking of the other fish eaters who would be happy to claim it if it slipped from his grasp.
On the same day, the Mallards were quite successful with fishing as well.
The Great Blue Heron has incredible patience and stealth when it comes to fishing. I expect to see him at the water's edge but sometimes he startles me by his huge presence in a tree. Today we watched one slowing stalking a prey which we could not see along the dirt path.
Perhaps he was trying to catch one of these ubiquitous squirrels that live in underground burrows.
Today we saw one of the adult Bald Eagles that live here year round. It was perched high on a dead snag across the lake. Too faraway for a clear photo...one day, I hope to get one!
Besides the Western Bluebirds that live here year round, we have seen a few migrating birds lately in the Willow trees including Wilson's Warbler, Warbling Vireo and the endangered Willow Flycatcher.
Birds are quite clever at finding water. This Mountain Chickadee flew up and down to this dripping faucet to catch falling drops.Looked like a lot of work to me!
At a nearby park, we spotted this Acorn Woodpecker drinking from a fountain.
This little watering hole was quite busy today. Every morning just as the sun is filling the sky, the Anna's Hummingbird starts the day with a bath.
Different species of birds started to line up on the nearby branch waiting for a turn to drink and splash.
Having a "watering hole" in your backyard can be a lifesaver and it isn't much work. Birds are attracted to moving water which is also less likely to attract mosquitoes.Besides helping out your local birds, those birds traveling hundreds to thousands of miles will appreciate a drink!
