February's end

While ski resorts are praying for snow, ducks are going about their seasonal business.  "Down the hill" in Reno, House Finches are singing, and in the wooded neighborhoods Pygmy Nuthatches are, as well.  Forests are dry, and look like November.
     Along Truckee River, and other places, I have seen Red-shouldered Hawks.  This photo is from Internet.  I was not quick enough to get photos myself.

 Northern Shovelers in courtship / chasing.

Lower photo is a Black-necked Stilt foraging in a shallow pond in late afternoon.