FORCED LAYOVER IN IDAHO...part three

 In just two days we will be in Idaho Falls for four weeks. Even though the visit was unplanned, I am beginning to like it here...

The nearby Camas National Wildlife Refuge has been a refuge of sorts for us, too. The sandhill cranes have beautiful calls to greet visitors...

Even when not vocalizing they are interesting to observe as they go about their activities; always remaining close together...

Eastern Idaho supports many bird species like these kestrels...

Swainson's hawks are numerous and vary greatly in appearance...

The ever-present irrigation equipment provides an elevated perch, and a cooling shower, for raptors like this peregrine falcon...

During a visit to the refuge we discovered an area used by common nighthawks...

Like many, I have often seen nighthawks in flight...

 Never before had I seen them roosting...                

The refuge is also home to ring-necked pheasants...

and greater sage-grouse...                                      

The wetlands are home to numerous yellow-headed blackbirds...

and meadowlarks...

Yellow warblers occupied the willows...

Terns swarmed the marsh...

Killdeer frequented the unpaved roads...

Cheryl spotted these bullock's orioles...

Waterfowl included ruddy ducks...

Eared grebes...

Cormorants...

White-faced ibis in large numbers...

Northern harriers are frequently seen...

The male harrier was especially elusive...

But perseverance finally paid off...

Whitetail deer are abundant on the refuge, although not always easy to see...

Sometimes one gets lucky...

For us, spotting the resident moose was the ultimate prize...

Being close enough to see the calves well is a special opportunity...

Thanks for visiting, be well, and come back soon.