Turkey Vulture, Double-crested Cormorants, and More

Turkey Vulture at Springdale Cemetery. He was sunning his wings in a tree along the border of one of the burial grounds on the back bluff over looking the river.

Turkey Vulture. He turned and flew away, joining another vulture who was cruising the river valley.

American White Pelicans soaring on the thermals over Springdale Cemetery.

Great Egret flying past a Double-crested Cormorant who was swimming in the Illinois River near Cooper Park in Tazewell County.

Great Egret landing near a Great Blue Heron.

Double-crested Cormorant. # 1

Double-crested Cormorant. # 2

Double-crested Cormorant. # 3

Double-crested Cormorant. # 4

Double-crested Cormorant. # 5

Double-crested Cormorant. # 6

Buckeye Butterfly.

Song Sparrow. He and several buddies were hiding in the bushes along the point at Spindler Marina, north of Cooper Park.

Red-tailed Hawk. As we arrived at Cooper Park last Thursday, a Red-tailed Hawk swooped down and captured a rodent in the grass between the highway and the frontage road. He flew up to the top of a huge Good Year sign to eat his morning snack.

Red-tailed Hawk, eating his prey.

Red-tailed Hawk, looking around before continuing to eat.

Red-tailed Hawk, turning to show us his tail.

Red-tailed Hawk, resting after his meal.