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Category Archives: Fauna
Swans
Among the most elegant of waterfowl that spend the summer in Alaska are trumpeter swans. Most pass through the southcentral part of the state in April on their way farther north, though a few remain in local lakes and marshes … Continue reading
First Arrivals
The beginning of spring bird migration in Anchorage is usually noted by the arrival of gulls in midtown. Traditionally I’ve expected them during the first week of April, but this year they arrived on March 30th, adding another twist to … Continue reading
Seasonal Transition
It’s that time of year again, when winter begins to fade as temperatures gradually rise above the freezing point. One of the first spots in Anchorage where the change is most notable is a shallow manmade lagoon along Chester Creek. … Continue reading
Fall Migration
The big, white, elegant Trumpeter swans have passed through southcentral Alaska again. Dozens stop by Potter Marsh each fall to feed and rest on their migration south. They have an acute sense of how long to stay and when best … Continue reading
Winter Dining
Birds have to eat all year round. Mountain ash berries are a favorite source of food for winter residents in Anchorage, including this European Starling in striking non-breeding plumage.
Avian Activity
It’s spring in southcentral Alaska and birds are busy raising young. This American Dipper is delivering a salmon smolt to a nearby nest. Dippers frequent clear fast-flowing rocky streams and catch much of their food underwater, sometimes walking with head … Continue reading
They’re Back
It’s been much warmer than usual in Southcentral Alaska and the seasonal change has come early—way early! One of the markers is the return of waterfowl. The first gulls showed up yesterday; geese should follow soon. The arrival of these … Continue reading
Winter Browse
Winter came late this year in Anchorage, and it wasn’t until December that we had significant snowfall. Now we’re making up for it. Temperatures have been very mild as well and wildlife doesn’t seem to be having any trouble getting … Continue reading
Spring Migration
Waterfowl are beginning to show up again on their annual flights north. A small patch of open water in Anchorage called Spenard Crossing is one of the better spots to observe early arrivals. Today a pair of trumpeter swans, several … Continue reading
They’re Back
The gulls and geese have returned for the “summer” season. It may seem a bit early, since ice has not yet melted from all the lakes and ponds and foliage is mostly still brown. But the annual transition has begun, … Continue reading