The mergansers that had been occupying our Wetlands disappeared for four or five days, only one or two being seen on any given day. They now seem to come and go; one day they’re here, the next they’re not. However, I’ve not see their numbers approach the 30 plus of a several weeks ago. I now see anywhere from 10 to 12 at a time.

Another duck species which has returned is the bufflehead. One arrived last November but soon took off for a better life elsewhere. Apparently the grass was not greener and the bird has returned to us, at least it looks like the same bird.

Today (1/3), an overcast, drizzly January day, the bufflehead is alone, has the Wetlands all to itself. But as I said, the mergansers come and go, one day they’re here, the next they’re not.

Come on out and have a look for yourself.