This return to winter has continued.....

 with even a dusting of snow over night. The cold temperatures have led to some beautiful sunny days though!

the fields in the area have been full of Trumpeter Swans.  Probably 300 or more all told

there have been lots of them out on the water as well.

the Bald Eagles have been active.  Yesterday this pair were working on their nest again...

while the other pair were enjoying something I could quite make out.  This one, the male I think, was eating...

while it's mate was either objecting or cheering him on....not sure which!

on the river there have been Common Mergansers

some Northern Pintails (this one the male)

and Common Goldeneye - also a male

today's offering was a Common Loon.

Despite the cold temperatures....signs of spring are showing up...

the Osoberry (formerly known as Indian Plum) is leafing out with the flower buds showing, probably another week and they should be in flower...

and then I noticed....

Horse tails, just starting to poke through the ground.

these pussy willows have been out for a month or more....still waiting to see a dandelion in flower....don't imagine it will be long once the cold weather moves on.