PI Bird Alert

Northern Pintails by Feather Observation Platform, Presque Isle State Park
Northern Pintails, by Feather Observation Platform

More ‘diversity and inclusiveness’ training today at BirdingPI.com (takeaway: all birds are beautiful and we love them all), but just enough time at lunch for a half-hour out at Presque Isle State Park, along the short trail by the Feather Observation Platform. And what a stroke of good timing – Northern Pintails both in the air and on the water!

Northern Pintails by Feather Observation Platform, Presque Isle State Park
Northern Pintails in the water (m, f)
Northern Pintails by Feather Observation Platform, Presque Isle State Park
Hard to know why it’s “Pintail” 🙂 [Alternate title: “1/2 bird, 1/2 mosquito”]

Never seen Northern Pintails before at Presque Isle, although the timing and environment/location make sense since they’re early migrators. According to folks who know about such things. But regardless, an amazing and exciting sighting! (Just need like a 1200mm lens for a great close up…)

Northern Pintails by Feather Observation Platform, Presque Isle State Park
Northern Pintails (on right) with Mallards, on ice
Northern Pintails by Feather Observation Platform, Presque Isle State Park
More Northern Pintail (center) on ice
Northern Pintails by Feather Observation Platform, Presque Isle State Park
More Northern Pintails in flight
Northern Pintails by Feather Observation Platform, Presque Isle State Park
Still flying! (Male and female)
Final shot of Northern Pintail (middle left) with Mallards

We’re off to a great start for migration season, and it isn’t even spring yet!

All pictures at a long distance with Nikon D850 and 500mm f5.6 PF lens.