Say ya to da UP, eh?

This was my first winter birding adventure in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. My wife, sister and brother-in-law went along to keep me company. We had a great time traveling around the countryside and saw many birds that I would not have seen this year had I stayed at home. The highlight would have to be the many Snowy Owls that we saw in the Pickford area, the awesome meals and the great company. Other highlights would be the Common and Hoary Redpolls, Pine and Evening Grosbeaks, Red Crossbill and a trip to the almost totally frozen solid Tahquamenon Falls. Oh, and I almost forgot,  the "lifer" dances that my sister kept doing! I am thinking that this will become a yearly adventure. Here is a pic of one on the Snowy Owls that we saw. More photos will be added here when I have a chance to go through them. (Next year I would like to spend a week or two in the area).

Snowy Owl

Common Redpoll Pine Grosbeak

Ruffed Grouse