Category Archives: Year 2

White Christmas! Snowstorm!

Year 2,

What a great Christmas. All of my children and grandchildren traveled to the Northwoods, and once everyone was safely here, a winter storm hit! The snow was a gift to this photographer. While we already had snow on the ground, it is hard to argue with 2/3 of a foot of new white stuff … followed by a crisp clear sunny day for birding. I continue to find these pine grosbeaks just north of Duluth. Crab apples are like Christmas candy to these birds. They are hanging out on Riley Road just off Jean Duluth Road.

All the children were finally asleep last night, and the snow had abated … peace reigned in the Northwoods!
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Riley Road Pine Grosbeaks
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Christmas Birding & Skiing

Year 2

As I sit writing this post, a winter storm is just starting which may dump up to a foot of new snow in the area. The snow is floating down reflected in the pre-dawn floodlights that are outside our home … truly a beautiful winter wonderland scene!

I did find a few moments amongst all the fun and excitement with grandchildren, sons, daughters, and spouses to escape and take a quiet ski through the woods and take a few festive holiday bird photos. Soon our house will awaken with activity … the multitudes are sleeping wherever there is even a bit of open floor space. Wishing all of my readers a peaceful, and great holiday season.

Christmas Berries (Pine Grosbeak)

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Old Vermilion Trail

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Ice! Finally!

Year 2

The bigger and deeper lakes in northern Minnesota are finally freezing over. This has pushed a huge number of Goldeneyes south and they are now hanging out in the Duluth harbor. The harbor is also starting to refreeze, which means for those of you who like opportunities to observe “eyes” from up close, that is becoming quite possible from the 1890 Interstate Bridge and the Aerial Bridge Piers.

Also found this Snowy Owl enjoying the sleet this morning down in the Port Terminal area. I suspect it does not mind having more food sources around!

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