Dateline: 7 August 2022
After leaving Ramsey Canyon Sunday (more great Ramsey Canyon content to follow ASAP), time to head further into the ‘deep south’ of Arizona for Ash Canyon Bird Sanctuary, Coronado National Monument, Wilcox Playa, etc. (Posts to follow.)
First up, a quick post on world-famous Sandhill Crane migration stopover point Whitewater Draw Wildlife Area. In August, fair enough to say it’s the ‘off season.’ Lots of water due to recent monsoon rains; only light/moderate bird activity mid-day – most seen at a distance and/or hiding in the grass/willows.
Starting with the one good photo, of a beautiful Black Phoebe:
Presumably female or juvenile Red-winged Blackbird:
Relatively, lots of Lazuli Bunting activity – always a favorite. Rather skittish for photography, but a couple shots nevertheless:
Presumably juveniles (+ the adult male) in this shot:
Even at a distance, always fun to see ducks landing. These might be Mallard/Mexican Duck/hybrid:
Not sure what this is. Yellow coloration with black-white wings, large beak – perhaps a female Western Tanager?
Preening Vermilion Flycatcher (m), at a very long distance:
Fair amount of swallow activity, mostly Tree Swallow:
Plenty of agriculture/crop farming in the area. Heading north towards Wilcox, AZ, special note of the amazing Western Kingbird activity along the dirt roads. Dozens of Western Kingbird – taking advantage of the open fields and power lines.
Note the white edging on the tail feathers – distinguishes from Cassin’s Kingbird (among other different features such as more gray on the breast).
