Red-throated Loons...

We took a walk at Ann Lee Pond in Colonie this morning. The water there is about 40% open. There were a few ducks and geese, but the highlight was a group of at least six Rusty Blackbirds.

Rusty Blackbird foraging at Ann Lee pond, Colonie

Later, we stopped at Lock 7 State Canal Park in Niskayuna. We spotted a pair of Red-throated Loons close to the cement pier. They headed upriver for a while, then returned towards the lock.

 Red-throated Loons, non-breeding plumage, Mohawk River Lock 7, Niskayuna

 Red-throated Loons, non-breeding plumage, Mohawk River Lock 7, Niskayuna

  Red-throated Loons, non-breeding plumage, Mohawk River Lock 7, Niskayuna

 

 Red-throated Loons, non-breeding plumage, Mohawk River Lock 7, Niskayuna

Unfortunately, they don't usually acquire their gorgeous breeding plumage until after they have passed through our region, that is one species that I'd really like to see on the breeding grounds.

TW