Revisiting the Western Grebes Along the Pacific Grove Shore

First, we show a fine example of a Double-crested Cormorant on his posing rock. The wind was blowing from just the right direction and the afternoon sun showed the fine feather detail as well as the eye and face color. How about those crests!
Then, below we report on the wintering Western Grebes.

The group of wintering Western Grebes remains in their offshore Pacific Grove shore location. There were 42 birds in the group - mostly Western Grebes. We did see two male and two female Red-breasted Mergansers in the group as well as one male Surf Scoter. Apparently the group provides some added measure is safety from predators.

The shot below shows a few of the Western Grebes in differing behavior as well as the Surf Scoter to the right of center. I waited almost half an hour for him to stick out his head so I could get this shot. These birds were about 200 yards offshore. The extreme distance makes it difficult to make ideal observations but it does illustrate the group behavior.

This cropped shot shows the typical Western Grebe resting behavior but note the watchful eye - ever on the alert. They certainly are not sleeping.

And, nearby the Song Sparrow was singing for all the hear. We always enjoy the ever-changing wildlife activity along the ocean shore.