This is the first time I've ever seen these guys (yes these were all male!) other then in a zoo. We have visited this lake nearly everday for the past 4 years and for some reason, this year many migratory birds are coming to this small lake. I don't know if it was weather or what but, I hope they liked it and come again. The only concern is this lake is right at the end of one of the main runways at MSP airport. I don't suppose any pilot would like the thought of these huge birds flying into their airliner. As you can see, it was pouring rain while I was shooting these photo. Once again my E-300 stood up to a lot of rain and seems none the worse for wear. ***Warning*** just because mine has been drenched a dozen times or more in the past 2 years, it isn't weather proofed like the E-1 and E-2 bodies. :o) I am maybe pushing my luck.

You can tell these are males because of the purtrusion on the bill. Only adult males have those, according to my research. I was so very excited to get a chance to see them! The lake has been teaming with life like never before.