With deference to my Island roots, the birds know no boundaries and neither should I. I'm sure no one would be offended by starting the 2006 version of "Vancouver Island Birds" on the mainland. The Jan. 1st storm blew me across, but it was peaceful and calm the next day at Boundary Bay's Snowy Heaven. There were 13 Snowies near 72nd when we were there today, not to mention the regular passing of Northern Harriers and a pair of Short-eared Owls. My apologies for the substandard shots of the Harriers and Short-ears, but the lighting was poor and the distance was considerable. I will be trying again.

Snowy Owls were sprinkled like cottonballs along the foreshore. It was an impressive sight that many walkers, birders, and photographers were enjoying. For anyone who needs a Snowy fix, I highly recommend a trip to 72nd. There is very little walking required as you can park close to the dyke, and the birds are within 100 to 300 meters. (Maybe closer at high tide.)

I was glad to see 2 good eyes on this Snowy as my first Snowy (on the Island) had a damaged eye.

There were Snowies on the logs,

and Snowies in the grass.

A Snowy even landed across the dyke on a tree.

Harriers were busy working the foreshore and the fields. One finally cooperated by landing close by.

The poor lighting made flight shots extremely difficult. I wish I had time to increase my speed (ISO) as this one flew right in front of me.

A pair of Short-eared Owls were working the field just west of 72nd. They were fun to watch but too far to photograph especially in the dim light. I posted my 2 best shots out of about a 100. As you can see, there is a lot of room for improvement. Wait till I find a sunny day to sneak over there again.

That's it for the start of 2006. Not much to offer, but you must admit, the Snowies are special, aren't they? So are the Harriers and Shorties for that matter.

Almost forgot - Lincoln's Sparrow at 72nd.

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