I went back to work yesterday and it was nice to be back after my 12 days off; in my Geology Talk today I got show of a couple of my "new" fossils. They generated some "oohs" and "aahs".

I'd failed to mention that I picked up a couple of new Year Birds while I was out fossiling: Violet-green Swallow and Rock Wren. Not sure what I was thinking when I went out since I remembered my binoculars, but not a field guide. Not being completely familiar with Western wrens, it wasn't until I returned home before I knew if I'd been looking at Rock Wrens or a Canyon Wrens.

With a few hours of daylight remaining after work today, Roxy and I went to see if we could finally get down to the reservoir. The road had been blocked about 1/2 mile in by a rather deep drift. Over the past couple days someone had punched a hole through and we made our way there. And discovered that it was, except for a little bit of the shoreline, still completely frozen over. So much for finding any ducks, grebes, or loons. I was surprised to find the local pair of Osprey hanging around their nest (#74 for the year list) and couldn't help but wonder what they are doing for food. I suppose they could be getting fish from the river . . .

In other news, it is now confirmed that for International Migratory Bird Day (Sat., May 10), the evening program will be my Wings on the Wind - Travels With Migratory Birds at the Bryce Canyon Lodge. Then on the following morning I'll be leading a bird walk - you should stop by if you're going to be in Utah!