Five More from Merced

If you visit Merced National Wildlife Refuge at the right time you might see huge flocks of Sand Hill Crane or huge flocks of White Pelicans, but, judging from my limited experience, no matter when you visit you’ll see a wide variety of birds and animals because it is ideal habitat.  

Who wouldn’t love to be greeted by a Meadowlark celebrating a beautiful morn, 

Meadowlark Singing

a Northern Shoveler proudly parading in full breeding colors

male Northern Shoveler

accompanied by his partner, 

female Northern Shoveler

a male Ruddy Duck sporting an almost blue bill,

male Ruddy Duck in transitional plumage

and a White-crowned Sparrow looking particularly sharp in the morning sunlight?

White-crowned Sparrow