Seward, Alaska
Yes, the north wind shouted today, blasting away at 25 mph with gusts up to 36 mph. Snow streamed across the mountain faces and swirled high above the peaks in gauzy, spinning clouds. Fortunately, the sun shone longer and stronger, and the temp hovered just above freezing making it quite pleasant out of the wind.
COMMON MERGANSERS, a few RED-BREASTED MERGANSERS, MEW GULLS, and GLAUCOUS-WINGED GULLS found that refuge in the lee of the Harbor Uplands breakwater. There, they lounged comfortably on the rocks and preened, or bobbed in the waves.
In the icy gravel parking lot just above, it was a different story. The wind raked across the huddled Gulls and Crows, riffling through their feathers though they all faced north like aerodynamic wind vanes. During the numerous reshuffles, they merely had to raise their wings and instantly became airborne, needing only to steer.
The first cycle GLAUCOUS GULL took its place among the mostly GLAUCOUS-WINGED GULLS. The young GLAUCOUS-WINGED X HERRING GULL hybrid rested and waited as well, all hoping for a handout.
I noticed the young Glaucous Gull has lovely frosty-white eyelids; perhaps a beauty mark retained in the adult plumage. It is indeed a pretty gull with its bicolored black and pink bill, subtle off-white plumage, and pink legs and feet. I enjoyed trying to get photos of it suspended and buffeted in the wind against the brilliant blue sky, white mountains and blue-green bay.
BARROW’S GOLDENEYES paddled and dove just offshore at the high tide. Waves splashed over them as they rode up and down the riled-up sea unperturbed in their beautiful waterproof coats.
As I drove along the Waterfront, I was astounded to see a female BELTED KINGFISHER flying into the teeth of the wind about eye level, right alongside the road. By the time I had processed this information and turned around, she had vanished.
I was glad for my warm winter gear and the luxury of the car and heater which made windy winter birding and photography very enjoyable.
Farewell, February!
Happy Birding!
Carol Griswold
Seward Sporadic Bird Report Reporter
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