END OF THE YEAR 2014

I fell short on bird images this year so sharing some "blasts from the past" along with some recent pics is in order. This year has been a fun one and has been a blur in front of my face as the time has passed so fast. Where does it go?

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A rare-to-Louisiana, stunning Shiny Cowbird showed up in Cameron Parish in 2010. They don't come around often and are truly an impressive bird to see. Hopefully 2015 will provide us with some more opportunities to see this bird.

A stunning American Kestrel perched on a wire clutching a freshly caught grasshopper.

Do you remember the rare-to-Louisiana Ferruginous Hawk that showed up in Cameron Parish on 12/12/2013?

Another rare Ferruginous Hawk showed up in Cameron Parish on 11/2010. The dark morph Ferruginous Hawk in the Thornwell area a few weeks ago must have been quite a sight to see.

Wood Duck nest boxes are common sights. One with a Momma Wood Duck exiting really gets your attention!

Why can't this be the 'Ghost Bird' ?  :)

The 'Blood Moon' was certainly a cool sight to see in 2014.

Have a Happy New Year!

P.S. - If anyone knows where some Short-eared Owls are hanging out and would like to have their picture taken please shoot me an email.

Best,  :)
Tom

SAM HOUSTON STATE PARK

Billy Jones and I had fun taking pictures at Sam Houston State Park today.

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Are you guilty of listening for a 'double-knock' or looking for a large triangle of white on the lower back of a large Woodpecker in hopes that it might be the legendary Ivory-billed Woodpecker which is probably extinct? Wouldn't it be nice if some were still hanging around?

Regardless, it was exciting to see this Pileated Woodpecker land in a tree nearby.

Hugging the tree

A small, curious and restless Brown-headed Nuthatch was out and about.

Pine Warblers are always a treat to see.

My wife tells me our grandchildren need to grow feathers in order for me to take their pictures! :)

Our granddaughter is in the eighth grade, plays on a tournament soccer team and helps coach younger girls just starting soccer. She is outgoing, involved in organizations at school, President of the Rebel Riot, maintains a banner roll average and was voted runner-up for Miss W.W. Lewis Middle School. She is a super grand daughter and we are proud of her.

She is holding a trophy she won Tuesday afternoon. She placed first among all the Middle Schools in Calcasieu Parish's Forensic Tournament with her oratory speech on placing prayer back in school. She is pictured on the left along with her friend who placed second is on the right.