More Bugs Than Birds

Not that I am bored from taking photos of birds, but it is certainly nice to take photos of animals other than birds - because I am hardly just another birder with a camera. Birds are just the majority of my photos because they are easier to spot and photograph than say, reptiles, mammals, or insects. I certainly got my wish today.

Even before I arrived at the dyke trail, this Ladybug flew into me and was caught by my hoody. I continued on biking and took photos of it when I arrived at the trail. Then off it goes again!

Tree Swallow looking for nesting materials.

Entering and Exiting

A tiny ground beetle (about 10mm in length) was saw running across the gravels.

As the plants in the Terra Nova Community Garden starting to flourish, it is also time to spot some insects, like this fly. What species is it?

Another very small beetle.

First time seeing a Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui). What a beauty! Since this is a strongly migratory species, it is difficult to find a perfect butterfly when it arrives here in BC. They are considered one of the most widely distributed butterflies in the world as they occur throughout North American and parts of South America. Some can even migrate as far north as the Arctic.

A partially leucistic American Robin with white spots on its head.

Bald Eagle back into the nest.

As I was staring off into the marshes, this Marsh Wren nicely flew right in front of me and started singing loudly. I quickly took a couple of photos before it flew off again.

True Spring conditions (i.e. rainy and gloomy) are returning this weekend and the following week. Sigh. Good days never last forever.

PS - A Swainson's Thrush (Catharus ustulatus) was observed today (after identified by other posters at WhatBird Forums). Sadly, the pictures weren't the best quality.
:(