Tag Archives: Russian River

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Beautiful American White Pelicans migrate from inland lakes and waterways to overwinter on the Coast. You are more likely to see some by the Russian River, though Rick and I once saw a pair fly over us in the town of Mendocino. Jim Garlock recently photographed some early arriving birds.

These Pelicans fish differently than Brown Pelicans. They sit on the surface of the water and lower their head to scoop up fish. Brown Pelicans dramatically plunge dive. American White Pelicans are graceful fliers, using thermals to help them on their way. You know it's autumn when these big birds arrive on the Coast.

Thanks to Jim for allowing me to share his photo with you here. To see another photo of these birds, seen at Bodega Bay, here's the link: http://www.mendonomasightings.com/2011/09/28/bodega-bay-always-picturesque/

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Siegfried and Gretel Matull were parked at Jenner, overlooking the mouth of the Russian River. They were watching the Harbor Seals lounging alongside the river bank when a large bird flew by. Gretel thought it was an Osprey but it turned out to be a Bald Eagle.

What a thrilling sight to see this beautiful bird, which is an adult. We continue to hope that a pair will soon nest on the Mendonoma Coast.

Thanks to Siegfried for allowing me to share his photo with you here.

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Great Blue Herons are one of most photographed birds on the Mendonoma Coast. They are seen often in the meadows at The Sea Ranch hunting for rodents. Marianne Rittenhouse captured a photo of one just as it was taking flight.

Great Blue Herons are wading birds, eating small fish and other goodies in the shallow waters. They also feed on rodents, which TSR meadows have in abundance.

Their nests are made of big, bulky sticks. There are several nests in trees across the Russian River by Duncan's Mills. Adult Herons have few predators as they are so big. The only creatures that can take an adult Heron are Bald Eagles, Great Horned Owls and, very occasionally a Red-tailed Hawk.

I thank Marianne for allowing me to share her beautiful photo with you.