There are a number of reasons why I decided to take on this project. My first reason has to do with my interest in birds. This began shortly after moving to Victoria ten and a half years ago. With our house backing onto a wooded area, the chirping of birds is a familiar sound all year long. I often glance out the window to see birds of all forms in the yard throughout the day. Frequently I will pull out the Birds of Victoria or Birds of North America reference guides we have on hand. Unfortunately, the drawings in the first aren’t overly helpful for identification and the number of entries in the second is overwhelming. My second reason has to do with a photography course I took a number of years ago. Since that time I have been trying to think of a practical reason to buy a new camera. Taking pictures of birds requires a powerful zoom lens which my previous point-and-shoot camera could not accommodate. Perfect! My final reason was my desire to take on a new project to welcome in 2011. Hence, bird of the day was born.



Sunday, November 8, 2015

Pied-billed Grebe

Podilymbus podiceps


Appearance:
Small, compact diving bird
Short, thick bill
Short neck
Brown plumage
Black throat in summer
Rusty tinge in winter
Breeding:
     White bill with black ring (pied)

Listen to its call.

Early last week, before the rain set in, I went for a walk around Swan Lake.  This little fellow was enjoying the sunshine and he was only too happy to pose for some photos.


Learn more about Pied-billed Grebe.
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