It is a matter of numbers and splendid breeding plumage rather than new sightings.  American Avocets, Black Necked Stilts, and Cinnamon Teals in their Sunday best explore the many ponds and channels.  The breeze stirs wispy neck and head feathers of snowy egrets. Pheasant plumage is so vivid that it almost looks painted on.

As the sun slides lower in the sky over the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge, bugs first dot then cover the car windows.  Mosquitoes?  They sure look like mosquitoes!  Have no fear though, according to a conveniently placed refuge signboard they are actually midges…mosquito-like but no nasty biting proboscises.  We are not taking any chances.  Windows are staying up.