Pied Avocet (Recurvirostra avosetta)
This Pied Avocet, a member of the family of Recurvirostridae which includes all avocets and stilts, is a rare migrant through Switzerland. This bird might have migrated from Africa or the southern Mediterranean, and might be on its way to costal northern Europe. The specie can be sexed by the curvature of the bill, making this likely a female. I spotted this bird at the southern end of Lake Neuchätel. My only other sighting of Pied Avocet in Switzerland is from Klingnauerstausee..
Pileated Woodpecker (Dryocopus pileatus)
The Pileated Woodpecker is the largest species among woodpeckers in North America. They prefer wooded areas with mature trees. These two males were interacting with each other, possibly fighting over a resource or territory. I love the pattern in the wing. It reminds me of keys on a piano.