I have been spending a lot of time birding now that I am retired.   I rarely write about it as I doubt most people are interested, and I rarely have decent photos.  My highlight this week was definitely the gorgeous breeding plumage Long-tailed Ducks at Otto Lake. I don’t have a photo, so Google them to see these spectacular  birds!

The above White-winged Crossbill near Denali National Park Headquarters was cooperative in getting photos.  His crossed bill was very obvious in real life, and I think you can see it a bit in the photo as well.  He was so bright!

There have been a lot of noisy, active Lesser Yellowlegs at Otto Lake.  You don’t need a boat to see them (definitely not to hear them!) I have been stopping by the lake every few days this month and see a new species every time. It is an incredible birding spot, at least in May as migrants move through.

   The sight and sounds of birds are constantly pulling me outside and filling my days. Everywhere I go this time of year, I hear the lovely song of the White-crowned Sparrow. (The Merlin app sound identification is awesome,  by the way.)