There were lots and lots of swallows flitting about, especially once the sun started to set. Trying to get a picture of one in flight was near impossible, so it was nice of this Tree Swallow to pose for me. Apparently the rules do not apply to refuge residents. The colors on this bird are so striking! It was really great to see him so close.
Bushtits are fairly common around here, at least I get them on my suet feeder regularly. Usually they arrive en masse, but are so little there can be up to twenty on the feeder at one time. They remind me of little, furry ping pong balls and never fail to put a smile on my face. Did you know the easiest way to differentiate the sexes of Bushtits is to look at their eyes? The females have a light eye, whereas the males have dark eyes. I took a picture of both, so you can see for yourself.
Most of the migratory waterfowl have moved on, but the residents were still out and about. This group of juvenile mallards were still very into following mom in a neat little line. And I love the look of geese in flight. 
Things I saw that are not included here: Bald Eagles, Red-Tailed Hawk, Belted Kingfisher, Black-Capped Chickadees, Red-Winged Blackbird, Song Sparrow, White-Crowned Sparrow, Cedar Waxwing, Killdeer, Mourning Dove, Northern Flicker, Spotted Towhee, American Robin, Warbling Vireo (heard, did not see), skunk remnants, and two dead moles. I did not share pictures of the carcasses, though I admit to having taken them. You're welcome. I'll end with a picture of a Great Egret preening and a scenic look at part of the refuge. It's really a gem and I can't wait to see what I find next time I visit.
