Last Friday during a break in the much-welcomed week of rains, we enjoyed a gorgeous day in Bodega Bay.
At Campbell Cove, we discovered several species appeared to be attracted to a particular coyote brush root. As we observed for a bit, it became obvious why — a constant stream of tiny, long-winged insects emanated from the root — a bountiful bug buffet for the birds!
Watch below as an Audubon’s Yellow-rumped Warbler and a Fox Sparrow vie for a spot at the table.
We speculated that the Fox Sparrow must sit at the head of the table, as it dominated the free feeding station the entire time we watched.
This adult White-crowned Sparrow was able to get some bites in too though.
Nearby, a young White-crowned Sparrow perched atop the scrub.
This shy Spotted Towhee made only a couple passes at the bug dispenser.
Though it didn’t frequent the bug buffet, this Hermit Thrush chup-chup-ed from the brush and eventually appeared out in the open too.
Down on the small sandy beach at Campbell Cove, we discovered 13 Black Oystercatchers having a preening party!
Who else did we encounter around Bodega Harbor???
The most unexpected sighting of the day was a Black Scoter (female or immature) mixed in with a large group of Surf Scoters on the north side of the harbor.
This lone Pelagic Cormorant cruised the harbor’s edge. Check out the bulge in its neck — perhaps it just downed a tasty meal?
We came across three American White Pelicans languidly swimming and scooping in unison.
This Great Blue Heron did its best impersonation of a Jack-in-the-box toy.
Further down the harbor, another Great Blue Heron showed off its majestic profile.
Here’s one of a handful of Eared Grebes that dotted the water.
On our drive home, we lucked out and spotted this gorgeous intermediate-morph Red-tailed Hawk — a great capper to our fantastic Bodega Bay runaround!
Hi you two…miss seeing you. Wonderful rain and bird activity indeed. I think your bugs must be termites. They always come out for the first rain and this a glorious rain.
Hoping all is well 💕
As usual, a wonderful post!
Hi! You had a very nice day between the rainy ones. I did note the Black Scoter for “Observations”.
Thank you, David.
the termites are served.
Wonderful post. Thank you
I’d been missing hearing about your birding escapades! I’m so glad you had such a wonderful day at Bodega Bay, and I’m grateful you shared it with us in your inimitably informative, humorous, and engaging way. Blessings to you both!
Bug dispenser! : D
Thank you two so much for sharing this. A bright spot amidst kind of a stressful day.
You’re reminding me to get outside now : )
Great post!
How nice of you to share your «gorgeous day in Bodega Bay». It’s good for me up North-East to view a selection of birds from California as migrating birds from northern Canada are leaving for the winter. Cheers !!!
That was great; thanks.
Saw you guys in my ‘hood the other day. The night before, a barred owl was hooting it up! Great post. Thanks for sharing and keep them coming!
This is such a great Blog. It always makes my day!
Great blog, as always. Fabulous photos.. It was fun seeing you guys today on the W. Co. Trail….it will be interesting to check your list to see what I missed!
What a great day of birding you had! Thanks for sharing!