An early July morning

The sanctuary remained very quiet when I visited it early yesterday morning for the first time in a week.  I noticed different human frequenters, perhaps because of the earlier hour.  Violet-green Swallows were swooping and soaring over the water, where fish were rising to the surface.  An Osprey announced its arrival with its distinctive cry.  The only bird song of note was that of a Warbling Vireo, likely the same one I have been hearing for the last week or two.  A Blue Elder bush, Sambucus cerulia, was in full blossom.

A small group of Black-capped Chickadees was feeding on the ripening Black Hawthorn berries.  The hen and lone duckling Mallard pair were on a rock enjoying the morning sun.