Pretty sure this sometimes silly and goofy bird is recognizable and needs no introduction even in silhouette. A Double-crested Cormorant drying out in a tree while the smoked-out and hazed sun descends into the horizon.

A male Ruby-throated dropped by for a quick visit, and it was good to see our old friend again. Maybe next time he will turn and face head-on so we can catch a glimpse of that glorious throat of his . . .

A Green Heron surveys the lake contemplating its next move . . .

Someone was none too happy about his photo session, squawking and carrying one, and some mean stares to boot. And then the lady of the reeds shows up with a snack in her bill, and that didn't help any. Finally, he settled down, repositioned himself and gave me his best side for a quick portrait.

Close encounter of the Killdeer kind. This sweet Killdeer mommy probably had a nest nearby and wanted to make sure to distract us away from the area, as only Killdeers know how to do (look at me, I'm hurt!). So we didn't linger long . . .

This female Yellow-headed Blackbird is one of several females (sometimes up to 8) attracted to a male's small territory among the reeds in the marsh. The scientific name for Yellow-headed Blackbird is Xanthocephalus, which means "yellow head" (All About Birds). Now say that three times real fast . . .