When the first Europeans saw a 13 – 15 inch black and white duck with a large head, they called it the “Buffalo-headed Duck.” Over time, this was simplified to “Bufflehead” and we had several small flocks of them this morning.

Other birds:

MAILBAG

 We were at Sam Smith today and saw the Snowy Owl, a Bald Eagle and this mink which was snacking on “sushi” as a passerby called it!  Alas, we could not find that Long-Eared Owl.

NATURE QUOTE

Be at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbors,

and let every new year find you a better man.                    – Benjamin Franklin (1706–90)

Miles Hearn