Wednesday, July 15, 2009

Lazuli Bunting near Saskatoon

One of the best things about living in Saskatchewan, and in particular , my home town, is that the network of birders, or the ' birding grapevine' is pretty amazing.
I had the pleasure of making a new friend this morning who's co-worker lives just on the outskirts of town.
His acreage has been playing host to a rare visitor for the past few days. A beautiful male Lazuli Bunting, a bird that is usually found further south.
A few show up not far from Regina, but the Saskatoon area only has a couple of records.

Here is a shot I managed from a fair distance away. If I'd had a longer zoom, and better light, blah blah blah... :-)
I'm just happy I got to finally add this bird to my life-list, and it becomes the 225th species I've seen this year :

12 comments:

Denise said...

That's an amazing looking bird and a great photo.

Kelly said...

He is a beautiful bird! Congratulations on adding #225. You are lucky!!

Rocky M said...

Congrats Nick !They are scarce and difficult to find in these parts.I never got within a stones throw of one yet.:( They are gorgeous though !

The Birdlady said...

He's gorgeous!

Ruth's Photo Blog said...

A very pretty bird indeed.
Don't we all long for a longer lens and perfect light?:-)
Blessings,Ruth

Peggy said...

Congrats on this find, and the bird looks great! Nice!

holdingmoments said...

Congratulations on adding another bird to the list mate.
And such a beauty too.

FAB said...

Well done on another new tick. With that colouring he'd be difficult to miss!

Susan Ellis said...

Once in Arizona, but never in Saskatchewan...wow, Great picture, congrats!

Tina said...

Well, congrats on that #225!! and you sure got a beautiful bird too boot!!
Great shot!

Nick S said...

Many thanks friends.

Suzanne said...

How handsome he is, really gorgeous. What do you mean a better shot?! That one is great. Thanks, Nick.