Another day of “shelter in place“ when I noticed the activity on Carillon Stonegate Pond.
Visitors included several Canada Geese and Mallards. There was a Tree Swallow flying low over the west pond - one of the first sighting this season.
There was a pair of Ring-necked Ducks hanging out near the western edge of the pond. If you watch them, they will frequently be seen diving down into the pond as they seek out vegetation to feed on.
And, there in the center of our pond, was the lonely Pied-billed Grebe. It is a small aquatic bird when compared to the Mallards. And the Grebe will float about the pond appearing to be gazing skyward. Then it looks toward the surface of the pond and suddenly dives below. The Grebe May stay underwater chasing aquatic invertebrates and small fish for thirty seconds or more. Eventually, it will pop back up to the surface. You may see the Grebe stretch its head and neck upward as it swallows its catch. And it will repeat this activity for the next hour or so.
Below is a short video of a recent dive!
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