Utah: Migrating waterfowl

4.17.13   We again visited the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge to view the species that have moved in since the Tundra swans moved on.  The temperature was more wintery than spring-like, and a strong wind made the water choppy and seemingly presented a challenge to some of the birds in their attempt to become airborne.   Coots were present in great numbers, along with numerous Northern Shovelers, 4 species of Grebes and many other shorebirds.  We cautiously drove through a couple flocks of tree swallows that were like swarming mosquitoes.  Of particular interest to me - and new-for-me were the American Avocets on their long, slender bluish legs, rust-colored head and neck, and long curved bill.  Also new for me were the Yellow-headed Blackbirds.  A few of the flocks also contained their relatives, the Red-winged Blackbirds.  Check out their call on the Cornell bird site - I think you will agree that if your ear is tuned to the familiar Red-wing, it would be a stretch think this sound is that of a Blackbird!   American white pelicans were there in good numbers.  By far the largest birds at the refuge, we referred to them as "cruise ships".  In spring breeding season, their culmen (bill) becomes a bright red-orange color and a "keel", fibrous growth - or sometimes two- is present.  Killdeer and Lesser Yellow-legs shared a mud flat; the classic black-and-white garb of the Bufflehead really stood out in the late day light.