Number 83

On a recent trip, I came across a new lifer and several Blue Jays. On closer inspection, most of the Blue Jays appeared to be missing decent amounts of feathers on their heads. I knew that most birds go through the molting process at least once a year, but I had never seen a bird going through the process. From what I have searched, it is common for Blue Jays to go through the molting process during the late summer, which coincided with the timing of this trip.

After spending time with the molting Blue Jays, I continued my walk and noticed several birds in the water. Based on previous research I had done, I expected them to be Egyptian Geese. Sure enough, as I approached, it was clear that these were Egyptian Geese. Egyptian Geese have an unmistakable brown patch around their eyes and pink legs. These birds are native to Africa, but established flocks are present in a few parts of the United States.

These Egyptian Geese were at a popular park and seemed to be very used to interactions with humans. As I walked by on the path, they would slightly move away, but seemed curious. Their comfort made it much easier to get on eye level for photographs. I was able to get some shots while maintaining an appropriate distance so as not to disturb them.

The Egyptian Goose is my 83rd lifer. Onwards to finding number 84.