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Despite a shortage of open water, geese are winging their way north

By JIM NIGRO

They seem to have delayed their migaration as long as possible. Now, their biological clocks ticking, large flocks of Canada geese have begun to return  to their breeding grounds - even if the weather isn't fully cooperating. The problem? Presently there is  little open water to accommodate the thousands that have already arrived.

With a shortage of open water there's bound to be an occassional squabble.

Bottoms up!  The water is shallow enough for the Canada's to dabble for remnants of last autumn's corn.

Geese aren't the only waterfowl in search of open water. Note the barely visible Redhead in front of the Tundra swan.

Unlike the migratory species, whitetails have had to endure a long, hard winter. Until recently these cornstalk remains were buried beneath a thick snowpack. For deer, foraging for meals the past couple of months was a lot of work. 

Jason Crater

Nice pictures!

This week and last the deer herds have finally emerged. I saw close to 200 on route 20 between East Bethany and Avon at dusk last night.

I was concerned for the population, but it seems to me that they're doing ok.

Mar 20, 2015, 9:05am Permalink
JIM NIGRO

Jason - we've been seeing a good number of deer in recent days, though not "yarded up" but small groups here and there. I know they are well equipped to handle the weather, still, when the temps plummet below zero for long periods and the snowpack makes foraging nearly impossible, I too sometimes wonder how they get through it.

p.s. Thank you.

Mar 20, 2015, 1:00pm Permalink
JIM NIGRO

Hi Mardell - Thanks a bunch and no, it doesn't feel anything at all like the first day of spring!! Somehow I'm not really surprised.......The grandchildren are spending the next couple days with us - promises to be a good time & never a dull moment!!!

Mar 20, 2015, 1:10pm Permalink

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