Egret Convention at Heinz NWR

I was stunned on my recent visit to Heinz NWR in Philadelphia by the number of egrets (mostly Great, also Snowy) in the empoundment (along with many Great Blue Heron). Impressive and picturesque.

Egret Convention - I count 35+, a small portion of the gathering.

25+ egrets in this photo, plus at least 3 Great Blue Herons

 Still early August, but the signs that summer is nearly over were seen everywhere: recently fledged Barn Swallows, young Marsh Wren foraging for itself, Red-winged Blackbird feeding a fledgling, and a vangard flock of Semi-palmated Sandpipers.

Barn Swallows

Marsh Wren

Red-winged Blackbird with fledgling

Semi-palmated Sandpipers

 Although I could not find them, cicadas were singing loudly in the trees. Along the pathway, Cicada Killer Wasps were also active. 

Cicada Killer Wasp

Boardwalk at Heinz NWR

Good Birding!