Our weather took a definite turn toward spring today. A combination of warmer temperatures and cloudless skies created the perfect conditions for a stroll with friends at First Landing State Park.
The osprey have returned to the park in force. They wheel and soar over the marshes and beaches, voicing high-pitched challenges as they claim their summer territories. Their massive nests dominate the scenery, but there are plenty of other birds to see, as well.
These ducks were not alone in the water, but I spent too long trying to line up the “perfect shot” of a loon, so missed it altogether.
Further along the trail, we saw a pair of brown-headed nuthatches hopping in and out of a nest cavity. One of them stayed in the nest most of the time we were watching, but the other seemed less convinced.
They spent a great deal of time calling back and forth, one in the nest and the other on a nearby branch, almost as if they were discussing their options.
It seemed to me as if the nest was going to win.
After my friends left the park, I wandered a bit further in search of a woodpecker that I had heard calling in the distance. I never found the woodpecker, but I did find a lovely snake basking in the sun.
I wonder if the snake feels like I do tonight, peaceful and content, happy that spring has arrived at last.
Rae Spencer 
These are great photos. I love birds. I keep pet finches. In addition, this is the only way I want to see a snake up close!! Don’t like snakes. LOL
We have too many cats to keep finches!
Great photos! WHAT KIND of snake is that? It’s beautiful!
I believe it’s a northern water snake.
My niece helped me identify my photos. 🙂 For readers who don’t have a niece who knows about snakes, this web page from the Virginia Herpetological Society seems very helpful: Cottonmouths and the Harmless look-a-like Snakes.
Rae, your photos capture the magic of our Spring outing. Glad I left before the snake–not my favorite of God’s creatures . . .
Shar
These photos are terrific. Love the one of the snake. Nuthatches are one of our favorite birds. Thanks for following my blog.
I love nuthatches, but rarely have any luck photographing them. This little scene more than doubles my nuthatch archive!
They are tiny birds and quick so you got some great shots!
Love all the photographs, but especially the ones of the Nuthatch and snake. Nature is so stunning! We have had a beautiful spring day here. At last! XO
Especially love that first tender photo of the mallards.
They seemed very devoted to each other, and never strayed more than a few feet apart…
Amazing photos…
Thank you!