Hi all,

  Yesterday, the pair of YCNH's have returned to their (now) traditional nesting tree. A third heron has joined them.  This morning I got up early to watch their nest renovation.  They
used the same nest, a skeleton platform that survived the big snow.  One heron was clearly more active in the nest building duties than the other. It would break off nearby " green" twigs and start to arrange them. I always thought they picked up stuff  from the ground(!)
When a piece was placed, the heron would "hoot" and raise it's plumes, walking over to it's mate. They would do mutual grooming.  The third heron was by itself, probably a bachelor. 
It will be interesting to follow their progress this year. Hoping for success!


D.Ford/Bethesda,Md.