Muskegon Harlequin Duck, Ross' Goose, Snowy Owl, Thayer's Gulls, ect.

[David Pavlik]

Birders,

Muskegon County held an array of birds today. The continuing female Harlequin Duck at the break wall showed no fear as we walked by and snapped a few pictures. Remarkably, no Purple Sandpipers to be had. A flock of Snow Buntings was also present.

At the Wastewater, a Northern Shrike was on the entrance road and allowed a good photo opportunity. A Snowy Owl was sitting in one of the fields adjacent to the Wastewater system. Rough-legged Hawk and Northern Harrier were also around. 

Gulls and Geese provided much fun as thousands of each were present. A few Cackling Geese were seen in flight. It took us a while, but we finally saw the Ross' Goose flying with a flock of Canada Geese and chased it down as it went toward the Wastewater. We found it in the wastewater and studied it, and it looks good for a pure bird. It was far away, so I have posted some not-so-great photos. Comments would be great! I haven't seen many Ross' Geese, so any tips would be awesome. It is a juvenile bird.

A first-year and an adult Great Black-backed Gull were present. One Bonaparte's Gull was also loafing. We left finding no other gulls of note. As we came back looking for the Ross' Goose, I quickly spotted a first-year Thayer's Gull, too far out for pictures. Soon after, I found a perfect adult Thayer's Gull, this one closer and I did manage some poor, but identifiable pictures. 

A lot of the gulls were just too far out on the ice to safely sort through. All in all, it was a great day and a lot of fun. 

Pictures of the goodies here : http://pavlikphotography.com/muskegon.htm

Good Birding,
David and Jeff Pavlik

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