Mountain Bluebird morning.

Tim dropped by at 4:45 a.m. this morning, as we were headed out to get some up close Mountain Bluebird shots. A quick stop at Rotten Ronnie's and we were off. As the day was begining to lighten up we found Birds of Prey, deer and the odd Bluebird. I had to calm Tim down assuringhim we would be getting better opportunities, and we did. On our way to our 7th moose sighting of the day, one of which I am certain was Old Grey (see file photo from January 2009, I have been following her ever since)

We found this odd bird, I am hoping that some post processing will allow for a better image. For you folks in the US you probably recognize a wild turkey, but this is only my second sighting in Alberta.

While in tht road I was able to provide Timm with some long distance Elk views. While we were in that particular road we found a pair of Bluebirds and with the sun up now, we decided to break out the blind and see if we could get some decent shots.  You be the judge.:

Here is the male puffing out his chest to defend off the Swallows that were definitely interested in takingup residence.

Here the male is inspecting the new domicile.

Here are the happy couple getting ready to move in, she already has the bedding ready.

Here she is a beautiful bird in her own right!
On the way out Tim spotted a Ruffed Grouse under a big spruce. Tough lighting conditions prevent a post, but not too far down the road we ran into a second Ruffed and I think this is an okay shot.

Almost out we found this Red Naped Sapsucker.

We managed a third "game" bird of the day and that was this Sharptailed Grouse, the mate was there too but we didn't see it until they flew off.

And as long as the Redwing Blackbirds are offering me shots I will continue to shoot.

Overall an exceptional day. I almost had Tim home for his 11:00 a.m. appointment. Hope everyone has as successful day in whatever your endeavours are this weekend, and always!

Turbo