I recently trudged through one of my favorite birding and wildlife places, The Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Refuge, in McKinney, Texas. This 289-acre refuge is designated as an Audubon Important Birding Area, and is also where I am learning to band birds. The Heard is the proud host of the oldest and longest-running bird banding station in Texas.
Despite the heat, the weight of my camera gear, and my surprisingly empty can of bug spray - I had a good day. A “good day” for me does not mean that I “got” a bird for my list because I don’t keep a list. A good day for me means that I was able to see a variety of wildlife, marvel at their behavior, and enjoy their beauty. Getting even one or two good pictures to bring home with me so that I can share with friends and family - and here at Birder’s Lounge - makes it an even better day.
This is a path that I walked for the first time. I found it when I came upon a sign near the edge of the wetlands that instructed me to not go beyond that point. I looked to the right and saw the beginning of this lovely, wide path, and headed that way. (turns out it was a service road - who knew?)
Not far down the path, I heard the sound of rushing water - and came upon this creek. The sound came from rainwater runoff pouring in from a big blue pipe. It wasn’t exactly aesthetically pleasing, but The Heard is doing their best in handling the changing water drainage from nearby development. I wonder if that pile of brush and branches on the right side is home to a beaver family? I know that beavers live at The Heard because I have seen a number of trees that are partially chewed.
After that path, I returned to the wetlands boardwalk - I simply cannot pass it up. On my way, I spotted this Yellow Warbler (Dendroica petechia). I recently had a Yellow Warbler in my back yard, so I was able to identify it on sight. Yes, I AM proud of myself. 
I enjoyed the antics of this Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodias), as it swooped in to chase off a Great Egret (Ardea alba).
I almost never get a good picture of a bird in flight, but this one turned out well. Another reason that I love to photograph birds and wildlife is because the pictures afford me the luxury of studying them later. What I only see briefly with my eyes, I am able to linger on and appreciate later via pictures. I have heard accounts of photographers putting their desire to get photographs ahead of the best interest of the bird by encroaching into a bird’s “safety zone.” I know that sometimes birders who love to keep lists get frustrated when an eager photographer scares off the bird they wanted to see. Me? I usually go out on the trails alone, and I STAY on the trails. Very peaceful - and that is the whole point for me.
I was probably most excited that day to see this female Wood Duck (Aix sponsa). There were two of them, working their way through the edge of the wetlands, snacking on bugs. In my experience, Wood Ducks like to stay hidden, so I was delighted to have the chance to enjoy watching them.
I want to close with mentioning one last thing about photographing birds and wildlife. While it is fun and challenging to me, and I enjoy the photos as well as anyone else - they serve another purpose.
For me or for anyone else who has loved ones that may not be able to navigate trails, walk for long distances, or be able to see a bird clearly no matter what the situation - these pictures are for you too!!
