Birds passing through

Northern Shoveler on small tundra pond, Fairbanks, Alaska.
Canon 1Ds Mark III, 400mm f5.6L, cropped

There is a small pond alongside the road that I pass on my way to downtown Fairbanks. It is an interesting little index of the season. This time of year, many migrating waterfowl show up for an overnight or two before continuing on their journey. Later in the spring, some Grebes take up residence and raise their young on the pond, which is surprisingly small, and right next to the road. Roadside traffic, humans running and walking by, and dogs are abundant. Last year, the eggs never hatched, and I'm not quite sure if it can be attributed to disturbance or not. I'll be anxious to see if the adults return this year. This Northern shoveler was busily feeding in the evening sunshine last night.