Lake Birds - Late Fall

Last week, on one of the cold, but bright and sunny days we had, I had a chance to spend a few minutes down by the lake.  There was practically no wind, and the lake was clear and about as smooth as I have seen it.

It was very quiet.  There were no songbirds in the woods by the shore, no swans, black or white, and not even very many people enjoying the view.

But, the Mallard Ducks were still there in force.  The cold didn't seem to bother them, as they floated serenely.

Played splash in the water

Preened and groomed

And, maybe, practiced flapping their wings for a trip further South.

But, they weren't the only birds by the lake that day.  The Sea Gulls were out in force.  They're brash fellows, not shy at all, and one of them let me get quiet close.

His only comment, a somewhat exasperated "You lookin' at me?