Busy Nesting Time
We have spotted many nesting waterfowl along the shores of our lake. It is such a joy to watch the birds and ducks as they go about the daily business of incubating eggs and feeding themselves.
The Red Necked Grebes work together to keep the nest tidy. We watched one grebe coming to and fro from the nest with lake grass and plants while the other bird sat on the eggs. Each time a load of water logged plants arrived the nesting grebe stood up and allowed the material to be placed on the nest. Then the nesting bird would carefully rearrange everything and settle back down. This goes on all day, ceaselessly.
Among the nesting species are Mallards, Common Goldeneye, Loons, and the American Widgeon. We are quite sure that Robins have nested in the woods next to the house, and of course, our Tree Swallows still occupy the box. In a few weeks we could have quite a few baby chicks showing up.
Gail Niebrugge, Artist
