On the backside of yesterday's storm system, a strong, dry, northwest wind has scoured away the clouds, humidity and much of the excess moisture that had drenched the soil. Of course, it has also brought cooler air to central Missouri and, temporarily, put a halt to northward spring migrations.
Indeed, as I entered Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area this morning, a flock of American white pelicans was heading south into the refuge, seemingly reluctant to confront the potent headwind. Within the refuge itself, the number of waterfowl has continued to swell, having ridden balmy, south winds ahead of the storm. American coot once again dominated the scene, now numbering over 3000 by my count; new arrivals included a lone horned grebe, an increasing number of blue-winged teal and pied-billed grebes and a trio of greater yellowlegs.
The potent, gusty wind is expected to slowly abate and the higher sun and dry air will push the afternoon high into the low-mid 60s (F). By tomorrow, the wind should be less intense and avian travel in and out of Eagle Bluffs will resume.
Indeed, as I entered Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area this morning, a flock of American white pelicans was heading south into the refuge, seemingly reluctant to confront the potent headwind. Within the refuge itself, the number of waterfowl has continued to swell, having ridden balmy, south winds ahead of the storm. American coot once again dominated the scene, now numbering over 3000 by my count; new arrivals included a lone horned grebe, an increasing number of blue-winged teal and pied-billed grebes and a trio of greater yellowlegs.
The potent, gusty wind is expected to slowly abate and the higher sun and dry air will push the afternoon high into the low-mid 60s (F). By tomorrow, the wind should be less intense and avian travel in and out of Eagle Bluffs will resume.
