City of Henderson, NV, Bird Viewing Preserve

Friday...May 6th...An overcast day with rain in the forecast...we headed out for more adventure.  Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve is part of nearly 100 acres of migratory flyway with ponds and trails for viewing of birds and wildlife.  This began as part of the Henderson city sewage treatment system.  But, with changes in the treatment process, the HBVP now uses reclaimed water and the odor is GONE.  There are 9 ponds surrounded by paved and soft surfaces .

We were first greeted by cottontail bunnies...then a lone Gambel quail ran into the underbrush.
Lots of waterfowl on the ponds.  Bees & hummingbirds were enjoying the nectar of the flowering desert shrubs, trees, and blooming wildflowers.  Here are a few....

                      Below is  Crested Grebe...

Islands and lagoons for the birds. Some nest on floating nests made of various twigs and grasses.

The Ruddy Duck (below) was my favorite of the large birds seen.  This small duck with a long stiff tail is designed for diving and swimming underwater.  Its small wings and stocky body make take off and flight labored.

Mostly a bottom feeder, its diet includes seeds, foliage of aquatic plants, insects, and small crustaceans.

During the breeding season of the Ruddy Duck, the male's bill turns bright blue (below).  When courting, the male lifts his tail to 90 degrees, puffs his chest, bows and slaps his bill against his chest.

 
The Ruddy Duck's nest is a floating mass of stems and leaves anchored to marsh vegetation.  These ducks are called brood parasites as they also lay their eggs in the nests of other birds leaving them to be incubated and raised by foster parents.

 Here stands a white Ibis.

The ponds here are mostly stagnant stocked only with mosquito fish.



                      Below are a couple Coots.

Before leaving the preserve we were fortunate to see the sweet hummingbird feeding above and below is a hummingbird nest attached to the limb of a tree outside the preserve entrance.  WOW!

A wonderful outing and walk to see nature.  Until next time....take care...stay safe.  See you by the campfire.