Frank Lake & area

This is the first time I've ever seen one of these birds, other than a handful in flight, and a long way away. Much as I don't like posting really poor photos, this will have to do until I get the chance to get a beautiful close-up, LOL!

This is part of the wooden "hide" built at Frank Lake, Alberta, for people wanting to observe the various species of ducks. This fence was reflected strongly in the lake.

Another view of this Yellow-headed Blackbird at Frank Lake. Seems so strange to see them on the boardwalk instead of clinging to cattails. Wish I could have got closer photos, though. I don't like very distant images and unfortunately that's all I'm likely to get down at Frank Lake. However, I am still very happy to have got any photos!

A back view of a Tree Swallow at Frank Lake. I didn't get a photo with the bird's head turned sideways, but I couldn't waste the sight of these gorgeous, gleaming feathers!

Taken on a trip south of Calgary on May 6th, when a group of us went down to Frank Lake for a few hours. I don't know shorebirds well at all, as I don't often see them, so I enjoyed the chance to spend some time at this popular birding location. It also kept me away from my computer, giving my arms a much-needed break. For me, two highlights were several White-faced Ibis and a Barn Swallow. Thanks again, Dan, for arranging a very enjoyable outing!

Not sure if I've ever seen a Vesper Sparrow before - don't remember ever taking a photo of one in the past.

Couldn't decide whether to post this photo or not. It might just disappear, LOL! Nature's "doodles" with reeds in the the water at Frank Lake.

I love these elegant American Avocets - they are SO beautiful! Wish they would come closer, though! They are always the far side of a pond or lake. These birds are uncommon in Alberta from May to September. I still remember seeing my very first one, maybe two years ago - such a thrill!

A friend and I had a most enjoyable day down at Frank Lake, south east of Calgary, on Monday. We had fun trying to catch these Forster's Terns for an in-flight shot. I managed to get several, but none are very sharp (i.e. don't look at it in large size, LOL). When they hover, I love the feather patterns in the wings and tail. Very elegant birds.