At lunchtime, I took a hike at Breakneck Hill Conservation Land. I was disappointed to find my camera battery was dead as I started out, and I didn't have a backup with me. Used to be, I never left home without my camera bag, but this winter I lightened the load and started just carrying the camera and a spare battery. Oops. Gotta get back to basics. I can't stand this kind of mistake. I missed beautiful closeups of an Eastern Bluebird male and also a wonderful Savannah Sparrow (first of year).
I should add that both when I left the house and when I returned, I saw the Eastern Bluebird in the nesting box! Yeah!
Just as I was finishing my work day, I noticed a report on Central Mass Birders that there were Ruddy Ducks on Lake Chauncy in Westboro. I've only ever seen them in the winter, in non-breeding plumage, and I really wanted to see them in breeding plumage. Their bills turn blue during breeding season, too. Usually, I have zero luck when I "chase" reported birds, but it was a nice evening, and I had plenty of time, so I took the chance. This time it worked! Thanks to Justin for the tip on the best spot to look for them!
Ruddy Duck!
Blue-Gray Gnatcatcher
Suddenly, the light was going fast.
The sky was gorgeous!!!
I stopped by my favorite Route 9 tree to catch its silhouette against those clouds. Beautiful!
My last stop of the night was a quick stop at Chestnut Hill Farm in Southboro. I wanted to check out the sky there too. When I stopped I noticed a small herd of White-Tailed Deer in the back of the meadow, so I walked back to try to catch a photo of them.
Love how the sun was reflecting in the windows on the barns.
Even though I was happy to find the Ruddy Ducks, I think the sky won this prize for best sighting of this evening.
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