Today is warm (54 degrees) and cloudy.  On my way to buy a Sunday paper (can't get it delivered anymore!), I saw a pair of ducks on Walker Creek.  I took this quick photo and tried to remember a few field marks (e.g. dark head, white body on one and rufous head with gray body on the other.  I also saw a Great Blue Heron on the creek but he quickly flew away when I got out of the car.  

I had to get my bird field guides out to identify but from the photo I figured they were Common Mergansers (Mergus merganser).  I sketched from my field guide so I will remember next time I see them.  They are migrating through to their breeding grounds in Alaska and Canada.

As I drove up the driveway, I saw the familiar flock of robins and cedar waxwings which hang out all winter here. 

They moved up the driveway to another damp area.

Finally, the flock came to our waterfall where there was plenty of water for them.

I took this photo thru the sliding glass door so it is not too clear.  It seemed like the yellow on the chest was brighter than usual to me.  I have always loved these birds because they look very exotic.