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Sunday Morning Bird Walks
Newport News City Park

Join us on the First and Third Sunday of each month at 7:00 AM at Newport News Park. 

Meet us in the parking lot behind the Ranger Station!

Thanks to Jane Frigo for providing these reports.  For more information, contact Jane (757-873-0721).

2023 Bird Walks Summary

November 19, 2023

 

The regular Newport News Park walk was held on November 19, 2023.  Skies were clear, winds were calm and the temperature was seasonal, in the 50’s.  Those participating in the morning of bird watching were Jen and Mike Hendrix, Pete and Charm Peterman, Sarah Saville, Marc Nichols, Donna McAdams, John Adair, Stuart Sweetman, Sue Tomlin, Todd Trousdell, Elizabeth Wilkins, Jacque van Montfrans, Hannah Montalvo, Tom Charlock, Heidi Young, Cindy Schulz, Bill Boeh and Jane Frigo.  New ducks seen were American Wigeon, American Black Duck, Ring-necked Duck, Hooded Merganser and Ruddy Duck.  Two Pied-billed Grebe were also spotted.  A Cooper’s Hawk and two Red-shouldered Hawks were seen.  The “windows” on the Red-shouldered Hawks were very evident in the clear skies as they circled in the thermals.  Several Brown Creepers and Hermit Thrushes were seen as well as both Kinglets.  A big highlight was a Rusty Blackbird!  Two misses for the morning were Barred Owl and Brown Thrasher.  A complete list follows.

The trip report is available through the following link: https://ebird.org/tripreport/172778

 

Canada Goose

Gadwall

American Wigeon

Mallard

American Black Duck

Ring-necked Duck

Hooded Merganser

Ruddy Duck

Pied-billed Grebe

Mourning Dove

Virginia Rail*

Ring-billed Gull

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Cooper’s Hawk

Bald Eagle

Red-shouldered Hawk

Belted Kingfisher

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker

Pileated Woodpecker

Northern Flicker

Blue Jay

American Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

Golden-crowned Kinglet

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch

Brown Creeper

Winter Wren

Carolina Wren

Northern Mockingbird

Eastern Bluebird

Hermit Thrush

American Robin

American Goldfinch

Chipping Sparrow

Dark-eyed Junco

White-throated Sparrow

Song Sparrow

Swamp Sparrow

Eastern Towhee

Red-winged Blackbird

Rusty Blackbird

Yellow-rumpled Warbler

Northern Cardinal

 

November 5, 2023

 

It is official, fall has arrived and daylight savings time is over.  November 5, 2023 gave everyone an extra hour of sleep. A big group of birders decided to participate in the morning walk.  The 18 participants were Bill Boeh, June Hartzler, Kate Shaller, Cindy Schulz, Todd Trousdell, Sue Tomlin, Emily Grojean (and Avery), Stuart Sweetman, Melissa Freudenberg, Pete Peterman, Heidi Young, Tom Charlock, Jane Frigo, Marilyn and John Adair and newcomers Chris Krueger, Clay Wygant and Louise Ford.  There was a lot of chatter as friends caught up with the latest news but the group was still able to identify 51 species.  Winter arrivals included Kinglets, Winter Wren, Hermit Thrush, Swamp Sparrow, White-throated Sparrow, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Dark-eyed Junco, Gadwall and Pied-billed Grebe. Sadly the Barred Owl did not make an appearance. A complete species list follows.

The trip report is available through the following linkhttps://ebird.org/tripreport/166578

 

Canada Goose

Gadwall

Mallard

Pied-billed Grebe

Mourning Dove

Laughing Gull

Ring-billed Gull

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Sharp-shinned Hawk

Cooper’s Hawk

Bald Eagle

Red-shouldered Hawk

Belted Kingfisher

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker*

Pileated Woodpecker*

Northern Flicker

Blue Jay

American Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

Golden-crowned Kinglet

White-breasted Nuthatch*

Brown-headed Nuthatch

Brown Creeper

Winter Wren

Carolina Wren

Brown Thrasher

Northern Mockingbird

Eastern Bluebird

Hermit Thrush

American Robin

American Goldfinch

Chipping Sparrow

Dark-eyed Junco

White-throated Sparrow

Song Sparrow

Swamp Sparrow

Eastern Towhee

Red-winged Blackbird

Common Grackle

Pine Warbler

Yellow-rumpled Warbler

Northern Cardinal

 

October 15, 2023

 

October 15, 2023 began with overcast skies and a little mist but by noon, skies were clear!  Winds which blew away the clouds kept the temperature in the 50’s and reminded everyone how cold it can feel on these walks.  15 people participated in the walk.  It was the first walk for Jen Hendrix and Melissa Whipple.  Jenna Cruz brought her husband, Jason, to see what it was like.  Others included Marc Nichols, Dianne Snyder, John Adair,  Heidi Young,  Donna McAdams, Stuart Sweetman, Terry Moore, Hannah Montalvo, Tom Charlock, Emily Adkins (and Avery) and Jane Frigo. The group identified 58 species.  A Blue-headed Vireo was spotted along with FOS (first of season) Ruby and Golden-crowned Kinglets.  Swamp Sparrows were seen but no White-throated Sparrows.   A late Yellow-billed Cuckoo was spotted.  Emily was able to see the Barred Owl that she missed on the last walk. 10 warblers were spotted!  Interestingly not a single American Robin could be found!  A complete species list follows.

The trip report is available through the following link: https://ebird.org/tripreport/160555

 

Canada Goose

Mallard

Mourning Dove

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

Laughing Gull

Ring-billed Gull

Tern species-unidentified

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Sharp-shinned Hawk

Bald Eagle

Red-shouldered Hawk

Red-tailed Hawk

Barred Owl 

Belted Kingfisher

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

Red-bellied Woodpecker 

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker*

Pileated Woodpecker*

Northern Flicker

Blue-headed Vireo

Blue Jay

American Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

Golden-crowned Kinglet

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch*

Brown Creeper*

House Wren

Carolina Wren

Gray Catbird

Brown Thrasher

Northern Mockingbird

Eastern Bluebird

House Finch

American Goldfinch*

Song Sparrow

Swamp Sparrow

Eastern Towhee

Red-winged Blackbird

Common Grackle

Black-and-white Warbler

Orange-crowned Warbler

Common Yellowthroat

American Redstart

Northern Parula

Magnolia Warbler

Black-throated Blue Warbler

Palm Warbler

Pine Warbler

Yellow-rumpled Warbler

Northern Cardinal 

 

October 1, 2023

 

October 1 is here and fall is in the air.  With migration in full swing 12 people got up early to see what might have arrived.  The group included Cindy Schulz, Bill Boeh, Dianne Snyder, Terry Moore, Heidi Young, Kim Amaya, Jane Frigo, newcomers Lauren White, Jim Perry, Brittany Sugar, Trish Jackson and Emily Adkins with 6 month old Avery.  52 species were identified.  Migrants included Ovenbird, Northern Waterthrush, Cape May Warbler, American Redstart, Canada Warbler and Rose-breasted Grosbeak.  Winter resident arrivals were Yellow-bellied Sapsucker and Brown Creeper.  Yellow-shafted Flickers must have been migrating across the area because multiple groups of 5 or more were seen flying over the reservoir.  It was a remarkable slight to see.  The Barred Owl was spotted again on the return trip from the Swamp Bridge.  He was seen perched watching a snake coiled at the base of the tree.  There was no winner before the group felt they must move on.  A complete species list follows.

The trip report is available through the following link: https://ebird.org/tripreport/160554

 

Canada Goose

Mallard

Mourning Dove

Chimney Swift

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Laughing Gull

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

Turkey Vulture

Cooper’s Hawk

Bald Eagle

Red-shouldered Hawk

Barred Owl

Belted Kingfisher

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

Red- bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Pileated Woodpecker

Northern Flicker

Eastern Wood-Pewee*

Acadian Flycatcher

Eastern Phoebe

White-eyed Vireo*

Red-eyed Vireo

Blue Jay

American Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch

Brown Creeper

Carolina Wren

Gray Catbird

Brown Thrasher

Northern Mockingbird

Eastern Bluebird

American Robin

House Finch*

American Goldfinch

Chipping Sparrow

Common Grackle

Ovenbird

Northern Waterthrush

Black-and-white Warbler

Common Yellowthroat

American Redstart

Cape May Warbler

Northern Parula

Pine Warbler*

Canada Warbler

Northern Cardinal

Rose-breasted Grosbeak*

 

September 17, 2023

 

Migration is in full swing. September 17, 2023 produced several great warblers…Northern Waterthrush, Black-and-white, Nashville, Common Yellowthroat, American Redstart, Northern Parula, Magnolia and Pine.  Yellow-rumpled warblers should arrive soon along with some winter residents.  The weather was pleasant, in the 70-low 80’s and mostly clear skies.  The group of participants included Sarah Foster, Kate Schiller, Bill Boeh, Dianne Snyder, Cindy Schulz, Todd Trousdell, Heidi Young, Marc Nichols, Tom Charlock, Hannah Montalvo, Elizabeth Wilkins, Jacque van Montfrans, Jane Frigo, Ellis and Wendy Maxey and first timer Sarah Ware. The bridge at the Ranger Station was by far the most productive.  The Nashville Warbler gave everyone in the group a good look.  The eye ring was so distinctive.  The Northern Parula, Black-and-white Warbler and Common Yellow-throat added excitement.  The Carolina Chickadees and Tufted Titmice ran interference and made everyone keep checking field marks.  The Barred Owl was seen again, this time near the Spawning Pond.  He allowed those interested to get the best pictures EVER!  A special shout-out goes to Cindy who made most of the morning with a broken ankle in a boot cast.  Talk about dedication!!!  A complete list follows.

The trip report is available through the following link: https://ebird.org/tripreport/148375

 

Canada Goose

Mallard

Mourning Dove

Chimney Swift

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Greater Yellowlegs*

Laughing Gull

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Bald Eagle

Red-shouldered Hawk

Red-tailed Hawk

Barred Owl

Belted Kingfisher

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker*

Pileated Woodpecker

Northern Flicker

Eastern Wood-Pewee

Acadian Flycatcher*

White-eyed Vireo

Red-eyed Vireo

Blue Jay 

American Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

Carolina Wren

Gray Catbird

Brown Thrasher

Northern Mockingbird

Eastern Bluebird

American Robin

House Sparrow

House Finch*

American Goldfinch

Chipping Sparrow

Northern Waterthrush

Black-and-white Warbler

Nashville Warbler

Common Yellowthroat 

American Redstart

Northern Parula

Magnolia Warbler

Pine Warbler

Summer Tanager*

Northern Cardinal

 

September 3, 2023

 

September 3, 2023 began with cooler and less humid conditions but gradually warmed up and brought back the uncomfortable humidity.  Signs of fall were beginning with occasional falling leaves making birders take a second look.  Newcomer Trish Jackson joined Dianne Snyder, Marc Nichols, Sandy Graham, Melissa Freudenburg, Heidi Young, Tom Charlock, Cathy Bond, Jane Frigo, Ranger Lauren Forero and John and Marilyn Adair participating.  Summer residents still spotted included Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Osprey, Eastern Wood-Pewee, Acadian Flycatcher and three warblers—Black-and-white, Common Yellowthroat and Northern Parula.  A pair of Bald Eagles were seen in the dead pine tree across the water at the first overlook.  By far the best sighting of the day was of the Barred Owl near Swamp Point.  This time the owl seemed unbothered by the group.  Everyone got great views and photo opportunities.  Then, the owl flew down to the ground but returned to his perch with a huge crawfish.  He proceeded to remove both claws, one at a time, dropping them to the ground.  Then he turned the crawfish around and swallowed it whole!  All in all another wonderful day outside birding.  45 species were identified.  A list follows.  Remember an * after the bird means it was heard only.

 

Canada Goose*

Mallard

Mourning Dove

Chimney Swift

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Laughing Gull

Caspian Tern

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

Turkey Vulture

Bald Eagle

Red-shouldered Hawk

Barred Owl

Belted Kingfisher

Red-bellied Woodpecker*

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker

Pileated Woodpecker

Eastern Wood-Pewee

Acadian Flycatcher

Yellow-throated Vireo*

Blue Jay

American Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

Carolina Wren

Brown Thrasher

Northern Mockingbird

Eastern Bluebird

American Robin

House Finch

American Goldfinch

Chipping Sparrow

Common Grackle

Black-and-white Warbler

Common Yellowthroat

Northern Parula

Pine Warbler*

Summer Tanager*

Northern Cardinal

Blue Grosbeak

 

August 20, 2023

 

August heat and humidity persisted for the August 20, 2023 walk at Newport News Park.  The temperature at 7 AM was only 66 degrees but the humidity and lack of a breeze made it seem warmer.  Those participating in the walk were Ellis Maxey, Pete Peterman, Cindy Schulz, Heidi Young, Marc Nichols, Stuart Sweetman, Tom Charlock, Jane Frigo, Marilyn and John Adair and Minnesota visitor, Seth Neidhandt.  The group identified 54 species.  There were several misses for the morning.  No Mallard or Canada Geese were spotted!  Also Green Heron, Acadian Flycatcher and Double-crested Cormorant and Indigo Bunting were missed.  White-eyed and Yellow-throated Vireo were heard and Red-eyed Vireo was seen.  By far the best bird of the morning was a Chestnut-sided Warbler in confusing fall plumage spotted in the shrubs/trees near the paddle boat launches. This was a real reminder to check out the fall plumage of the migrating warblers!  A complete species list follows.

The trip report is available through the following link: https://ebird.org/tripreport/148373

 

Mourning Dove

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Killdeer*

Spotted Sandpiper

Shorebird Species-unidentified

Laughing Gull

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Cooper’s Hawk

Bald Eagle

Red-shouldered Hawk*

Red-tailed Hawk*

Barred Owl

Belted Kingfisher

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker*

Hairy Woodpecker

Pileated Woodpecker

Northern Flicker*

Eastern Wood-Pewee

Great Crested Flycatcher

Eastern Kingbird

White-eyed Vireo*

Yellow-throated Vireo*

Red-eyed Vireo

Blue Jay 

American Crow*

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

Purple Martin

Barn Swallow

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch*

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

Carolina Wren

Brown Thrasher

Northern Mockingbird

Eastern Bluebird

American Robin

House Finch

American Goldfinch

Chipping Sparrow

Eastern Towhee

Red-winged Blackbird

Common Grackle

Prothonotary Warbler*

Chestnut-sided Warbler

Pine Warbler*

Summer Tanager

Northern Cardinal

Blue Grosbeak*

 

August 6, 2023

The “Dog Days of Summer” have arrived.  August 6, 2023 was warm and humid.  Skies were cloudy but at least there was no rain  A large group of birders gathered to spend the morning outdoors.  They included Donna McAdams, Dianne Snyder, Bill Boeh, Cindy Schulz, Shawn Dash, Stuart Sweetman, Marc Nichols, Heidi Young, Tom Charlock, Melissa Freudenberg, Elizabeth Wilkins, Jacque van Montfrans, Jane Frigo, Marilyn and John Adair and Diane, Nick and Grace Ferree.  The group identified a total of 59 species over the morning which was a good number considering the time of year.  Surprisingly not one Mallard was seen and Canada Geese were not spotted until the end of the morning by Elizabeth and Jacque and they left the park!  The most exciting sighting was of a Northern Bobwhite heard near the Discovery Center and actually tracked down by several birders.  Spirits rose when several people thought they spotted a Scoter, but it turned out to be a stump….which became a Stump Scoter  The Barred Owl was seen again and was a life bird for Donna McAdams  An Ovenbird was seen by Stuart and a Yellow-billed Cuckoo was heard by several in the group.  A complete species list follows.  (* indicates heard only)

The trip report is available through the following link: https://ebird.org/tripreport/148372

 

Canada Goose

Wood Duck*

Northern Bobwhite

Mourning Dove

Yellow-billed Cuckoo*

Chimney Swift

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Laughing Gull

Double0crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

Green Heron

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Bald Eagle

Red-shouldered Hawk

Red-tailed Hawk

Barred Owl

Belted Kingfisher

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker*

Pileated Woodpecker

Northern Flicker

Eastern Wood-Pewee

Acadian Flycatcher*

Great Crested Flycatcher

Eastern Kingbird

White-eyed Vireo*

Red-eyed Vireo*

Blue Jay

American Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

Purple Martin

Barn Swallow

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch*

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

Carolina Wren

Gray Catbird*

Brown Thrasher

Northern Mockingbird

Eastern Bluebird

American Robin

Cedar Waxwing*

House Finch

American Goldfinch

Chipping Sparrow

Red-winged Blackbird

Brown-headed Cowbird

Common Grackle

Prothonotary Warbler

Common Yellowthroat*

Pine Warbler*

Ovenbird

Summer Tanager

Northern Cardinal

Blue Grosbeak* 

Indigo Bunting

 

July 16, 2023

July 16, 2023 was a typical summer day.  Skies were cloudy but no rain The temperature stayed in the 80’s but the humidity was oppressive and made it feel much warmer.  Twelve birding enthusiasts showed up to count the summer residents.  Participants were Pete Peterman, Dianne Snyder, Heidi Young, Bill Boeh, Marc Nichols, Todd Trousdell, Tom Charlock, Hannah Montalvo, Stuart Sweetman, Jane Frigo and John and Marilyn Adair.  They were able to identify 57 species by noon.  The Barred Owl was seen again near Swamp Point and Cedar Waxwings at the Arboretum.  What was assumed to be a family of Pileated Woodpeckers was spotted at the Tea House area.  It appeared each parent had a youngster and was giving them a life lesson in foraging.  The juveniles looked comical with their slightly fluffy crests!  Color lit up the sky with red Tanagers, blue Grosbeaks, yellow Prothonotary Warblers and Green Herons.  A lone Yellow-billed Cuckoo was heard. A complete list follows.

The trip report is available through the following link:: https://ebird.org/tripreport/140262

 

Canada Goose

Mallard

Mourning Dove

Yellow-billed Cuckoo*

Laughing Gull 

Royal Tern

Great Blue Heron

Green Heron 

Yellow-crowned Night Heron

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Bald Eagle

Red-tailed Hawk

Barred Owl

Belted Kingfisher

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker*

Pileated Woodpecker

Northern Flicker*

Eastern Wood Pewee

Acadian Flycatcher*

Great Crested Flycatcher

Eastern Kingbird

Red-eyed Vireo*

Blue Jay*

American Crow

Fish Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

Purple Martin

Tree Swallow

Barn Swallow

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

Carolina Wren

Brown Thrasher

Northern Mockingbird

Eastern Bluebird

American Robin

Cedar Waxwing

House Finch

American Goldfinch

Chipping Sparrow

Red-winged Blackbird

Brown-headed Cowbird

Common Grackle

Prothonotary Warbler

Common Yellowthroat

Northern Parula*

Pine Warbler*

Summer Tanager

Northern Cardinal

Blue Grosbeak

Indigo Bunting

 

July 2, 2023

 

Summer is in full swing.  July 2, 2023 was hot, humid, clear and calm.  Any breath of air was appreciated.  Bill Boeh, Marc Nichols, Heidi Young, Stuart Sweetman, Cindy Schulz, Tom Charlock, Jane Frigo and John and Marilyn Adair participated in the morning walk.  Many summer residents were busy with young noisily begging for handouts.  Eastern Kingbirds were seen going in and out of a nest near the boat ramp.  The Barred Owl was spotted again near Swamp Point.  Green Herons have been hard to find but one was heard.  A beautiful Indigo Bunting was seen at the Swamp Bridge and a female Blue Grosbeak was spotted.  Several Summer Tanagers were heard but couldn’t be seen.  A total of 55 species were identified.  A list follows.

The trip report is available through the following link:: https://ebird.org/tripreport/140261

 

Canada Goose

Mallard

American Black Duck

Mourning Dove

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Laughing Gull

Royal Tern

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

Green Heron*

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Bald Eagle

Red-shouldered Hawk

Barred Owl

Belted Kingfisher

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker*

Pileated Woodpecker*

Northern Flicker

Eastern Wood-Pewee

Acadian Flycatcher*

Great Crested Flycatcher

Eastern Kingbird

Red-eyed Vireo*

Blue Jay

American Crow

Fish Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

Carolina Wren

Brown Thrasher

Northern Mockingbird

Eastern Bluebird

American Robin

Cedar Waxwing

House Finch

American Goldfinch

Chipping Sparrow

Red-winged Blackbird

Brown-headed Cowbird

Common Grackle

Prothonotary Warbler

Common Yellowthroat

Northern Parula*

Pine Warbler*

Summer Tanager*

Northern Cardinal

Blue Grosbeak

Indigo Bunting

 

June 18, 2023

June 18, 2023 was Father’s Day. The weather was beautiful, warm and clear and calm, a perfect morning to spend the holiday outside.  14 birders participated in the morning.  They were Marilyn and John Adair, Ellis and Wendy Maxey, Samantha Denny, Marc Nichols, Pete Peterman, Stuart Sweetman, Cindy Schulz, Todd Trousdell, Dianne Snyder, Kate Shaller, Mellisa Freudenberg, and Jane Frigo.  The group identified 61 species.  As with every walk, there seems to be some special observations.  Today, the group was hoping to spot the owls again.  Happily, they were not disappointed.  The pair of Barred Owls were found again near Swamp Point. Although they didn’t give the display seen last walk, they were identifiable and even gave some vocalizations.  On the return trip from the Swamp Bridge, the Great Horned Owl was heard and briefly glimpsed in the dense foliage.  Turtles seemed to be everywhere laying their eggs. Crows hovered above the turtles as they worked and quickly took the eggs as soon as the turtles left.  Empty turtle eggs could be found scattered everywhere.  Another first time observation occurred at the Discovery Center.  While enjoying the snacks break, a lone female deer ventured close, obviously hoping for a handout.  She appeared hungry and may have been pregnant.  As she ventured off when failing to get fed, a group of ducklings emerged from the meadow.  They looked lost and didn’t look like Mallards.  Then an orange blurr crossed the clearing chasing something dark heading toward the golf course. It turned out to be a fox chasing a mother Wood Duck.  She was leading the fox away from her young.  She finally returned to her family and led them to safety.  Todd was able to find them hiding in the woods behind the Discovery Center rehab cages.  Everyone got to watch them scurrying around and trying to stay hidden.  A complete species list follows.

The trip report is available through the following link:: https://ebird.org/tripreport/122871

 

Canada Goose

Wood Duck

Mallard

Mourning Dove

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Royal Tern

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Bald Eagle

Red-shouldered Hawk

Red-tailed Hawk

Great Horned Owl

Barred Owl

Belted Kingfisher

Red-headed Woodpecker*

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker*

Pileated Woodpecker*

Eastern Wood-Pewee

Acadian Flycatcher*

Great Crested Flycatcher

Eastern Kingbird

White-eyed Vireo

Yellow-throated Vireo*

Red-eyed Vireo*

Blue Jay 

American Crow

Fish Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

Purple Martin*

Barn Swallow’

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

Carolina Wren

European Starling

Brown Thrasher

Northern Mockingbird

Eastern Bluebird

American Robin

House Finch

American Goldfinch

Chipping Sparrow

Orchard Oriole

Red-winged Blackbird

Brown-headed  Cowbird

Common Grackle

Prothonotary Warbler

Common Yellowthroat*

Northern Parula*

Pine Warbler

Summer Tanager

Northern Cardinal

Blue Grosbeak

Indigo Bunting

June 4, 2023

June 4, 2023 began as another cool, breezy, overcast day.  The temperature stayed in the 60’s before the clouds finally burned off around noon.  Marc Nichols, Dianne Snyder, Cindy Schulz, John Adair, Stuart Sweetman, Sue Tomlin, Hannah Montalvo and Jane Frigo identified 57 species.  As with every walk there were high points and definite misses.  One high point was seeing a PAIR of Barred Owls near Swamp Point. The two were seen preening each other on a branch.  They stayed close for some time before separating. It was a great photo opportunity.  Then at the Swamp Bridge, the group encountered a Prothonotary Warbler on the walkway  He was so engrossed with a dragonfly that, again, provided a great photo opportunity.  A great view was gotten of a Red-eyed Vireo at the stream at the Arboretum.  Another surprise was a Killdeer. There were, however, some surprising misses.  No Mallard, Bald Eagle or Laughing Gulls were seen. A complete species list follows.

The trip report is available through the following link:: https://ebird.org/tripreport/122870

 

Canada Goose

Wood Duck

Chimney Swift

Killdeer

Royal Tern

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

Green Heron

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Red-shouldered Hawk

Red-tailed Hawk

Barred Owl

Red-headed Woodpecker*

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker

Pileated Woodpecker

Northern Flicker*

Eastern Wood Pewee

Acadian Flycatcher*

Great Crested Flycatcher*

White-eyed Vireo

Yellow-throated Vireo

Red-eyed Vireo

Blue Jay

American Crow

Fish Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

Tree Swallow

Barn Swallow

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

Carolina Wren

Brown Thrasher

Northern Mockingbird

Eastern Bluebird

American Robin

House Finch

American Goldfinch

Chipping Sparrow

Red-winged Blackbird

Brown-headed Cowbird

Common Grackle

Prothonotary Warbler

Common Yellowthroat

Northern Parula*

Pine Warbler

Summer Tanager*

Northern Cardinal

Blue Grosbeak

Indigo Bunting

 

May 21, 2023

 

May 21, 2023 began with overcast skies and a light drizzle and a cool 63 degrees.  Hopes were high that the bad weather would clear. Beatrix Whitehead, Victoria West, Marc Nichols, Stuart Sweetman, John Adair, Tom Charlock, Melissa Freudenberg, Shawn Dash and Jane Frigo assembled at the park and began counting species.  They were quickly forced into a shelter when the drizzle changed to rain.  It took nearly and hour before the shower finally stopped.  The rest of the morning and into the early afternoon was productive, however.  A first of season Green Heron was spotted along with Great Egret and Great Blue Heron.  Several pairs of Wood Ducks were swimming close enough to get some great pictures!  Drumming was heard and finally revealed a Downy Woodpecker that looked big enough to be a Hairy! Field marks made it clear that it was, in fact, a Downy.  Miraculously a true Hairy was seen feet above on the same tree and provided the group with a rare visual comparison.  Other exciting glimpses included a Wilson’s Warbler with his tiny black skull cap, a Hooded Warbler announcing his presence before being seen, a Veery and Swainson’s Thrush at the boat landing.  Both male and female Summer Tanagers were seen and gave the best photo op ever! 65 species were counted by 2:30 when the last few birders called it quits.  A species list follows

The trip report is available through the following link:: https://ebird.org/tripreport/116368

 

Canada Goose

Wood Duck

Mallard

Mourning Dove*

Chimney Swift

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

Green Heron

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Bald Eagle

Red-shouldered Hawk

Red-tailed Hawk

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker

Pileated Woodpecker*

Northern Flicker

Eastern Wood-Pewee

Acadian Flycatcher

Great Crested Flycatcher*

Eastern Kingbird

White-eyed Vireo*

Red-eyed Vireo

Blue Jay

American Crow

Fish Crow

Carolina Chickadee

TuftedTitmouse

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

Purple Martin

Tree Swallow

Barn Swallow

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch*

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

House Wren*

Carolina Wren

Gray Catbird

Brown Thrasher

Northern Mockingbird

Eastern Bluebird

Veery

Swainson’s Thrush

American Robin

House Finch

American Goldfinch

Chipping Sparrow

Red-winged Blackbird

Brown-headed Cowbird

Common Grackle 

Prothonotary Warbler

Common Yellowthroat

Hooded Warbler

American Redstart

Northern Parula*

Blackpoll Warbler

Pine Warbler

Yellow-throated Warbler*

Wilson’s Warbler

Summer Tanager

Northern Cardinal

Indigo Bunting

May 7, 2023

The weather on May 7, 2023 was almost perfect.  Skies were clear and the temperature rose from the 60's to the 80's.  Ten people turned out to enjoy the morning and were able to identify 62 species over the morning.  Those participating were Kate Schaller, Dianne Snyder, June Hartzler, Gary Wright, Marc Nichols, Sue Tomlin, Jane Frigo, John and Marilyn Adair and newcomer Kim Amaya.  The morning began with a great sighting of a Yellow-billed Cuckoo!  Shortly after that, Wood Ducks were spotted.  Great Crested Flycatchers were calling along with Northern Parula.  At the first bridge, Blue-gray Gnatcatchers flitted in the trees.  While trying to catch a good look at the Gnatcatchers, a spectacular male Baltimore Oriole was spotted.  Prothonotary Warblers were seen along with Common Yellowthroats.  A Magnolia Warbler was spotted among the many Yellow-rumped Warblers.  Gray Catbirds, Blue Grosbeak and Indigo Buntings were seen.  Both male and female Summer Tanagers were observed.  The elusive Blackpoll Warbler had arrived for a brief stopover on his long migration journey,  Near Swamp Point both a Louisiana Waterthrush and Barred Owl were found.  And at the Swamp Bridge the group watched a Blue-gray Gnatcatcher feed his nestlings!  Another rare sighting, although brief, was a Chat!  A complete species list follows.

 

Canada Goose

Wood Duck

Mallard

Mourning Dove

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

Laughing Gull

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Bald Eagle

Red-tailed Hawk

Barred Owl

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker*

Pileated Woodpecker

Eastern Wood-Pewee

Great Crested Flycatcher

Eastern Kingbird

White-eyed Vireo

Yellow-throated Vireo

Red-eyed Vireo

Blue Jay

American Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

Tree Swallow

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

Carolina Wren

European Starling

Gray Catbird

Brown Thrasher

Northern Mockingbird

Eastern Bluebird

American Robin

Cedar Waxwing

House Finch

American Goldfinch

Chipping Sparrow  

Eastern Towhee*

Yellow-breasted Chat

Baltimore Oriole

Red-winged Blackbird

Brown-headed Cowbird

Common Grackle

Louisiana Waterthrush

Prothonotary Warbler

Common Yellowthroat

Northern Parula*

Magnolia Warbler

Blackpoll Warbler*

Pine Warbler*

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Summer Tanager

Northern Cardinal

Blue Grosbeak

Indigo Bunting

April 16, 2023

Migration is beginning and birders are ready to spot the new arrivals! 19 people turned out to see what the beautiful day brought.  Those participating were Dianne Snyder, Marc Nichols, Bill Boeh, David Yeager, Cindy Schulz, Elizabeth Wilkins, Jacque van Montfranz, Lee Morris, Todd Trousdell, Sue Tomlin, Melissa Freudenberg, Tom Charlock, Heidi Young, Hannah Montalvo, Jane Frigo, Beata and Chip Whitehead and newcomers David Karlson and Angier Brock.  The group decided to make the 2 mile White Oak Trail walk.  They were able to identify 11 FOS (first of season) birds.  Those birds were Great Crested Flycatcher, Eastern Kingbird, White-eyed Vireo, Red-eyed Vireo, Louisiana Waterthrush, Black-and-white Warbler, Ovenbird, Prothonotary Warbler, Northern Parula, Yellow Warbler and Summer Tanager.  A total of 67 species were identified during the entire morning.  The walk was tiring but well worth it.  A complete species list follows.

The trip report is available through the following link: https://ebird.org/tripreport/116366

 

Canada Goose

Wood Duck

Mallard

Mourning Dove

Spotted Sandpiper

Greater Yellowlegs

Laughing Gull

Ring-billed Gull

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Sharp-shinned Hawk

Bald Eagle

Red-shouldered Hawk

Red-tailed Hawk

Belted Kingfisher 

Red-headed Woodpecker

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Pileated Woodpecker

Northern Flicker

Eastern Phoebe

Great Crested Flycatcher

Eastern Kingbird

White-eyed Vireo

Red-eyed Vireo

Blue Jay

American Crow

Fish Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

Tree Swallow

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

Red-breasted Nuthatch

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

Carolina Wren

European Starling

Brown Thrasher

Northern Mockingbird

Eastern Bluebird

American Robin

American Goldfinch

Chipping Sparrow

White-throated Sparrow

Swamp Sparrow

Eastern Towhee

Red-winged Blackbird

Brown-headed Cowbird

Common Grackle

Louisiana Waterthrush

Black-and-white Warbler

Ovenbird

Prothonotary Warbler

Common Yellowthroat

Northern Parula

Yellow Warbler

Palm Warbler

Pine Warbler

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Yellow-throated Warbler

Summer Tanager

Northern Cardinal

 

April 2, 2023

 

What a beautiful day for a bird walk.  April 2, 2023 was chilly, temperatures beginning in the 40's, but skies were clear and winds not too bad.  Pete Peterman, Marc Nichols, Dianne Snyder, Bill Boeh, David Yeager, Stuart Sweetman, Sue Tomlin, Jane Frigo, Beata and Chip Whitehead and Marilyn and John Adair were able to identify 62 species.  FOS--first of season-- birds were Blue-gray Gnatcatchers, Common Yellowthroat and Yellow-throated Warbler.  A lone Bufflehead hen was spotted and only a few Gadwall remained.  Gulls and terns seemed to make up for the lack of ducks with Laughing Gull, Ring-billed Gull and a surprise Bonaparte's Gull along with both Royal and Caspian Terns being seen.  Both Great Blue Heron and Great Egret were seen, as expected, but on the return walk from the Swamp Bridge a Snowy Egret was spotted among the waders.  Woodpeckers made a good showing, with the exception of Yellow-bellied Sapsucker.  Ruby-crowned Kinglets were seen, but not Golden-crowned Kinglets. All three nuthatches were identified.  A complete species list follows.

The trip report is available through the following link: https://ebird.org/tripreport/116365

 

Canada Goose

Wood Duck

Gadwall

Mallard

Bufflehead

Mourning Dove

Bonaparte's Gull

Laughing Gull

Ring-billed Gull

Caspian Tern

Royal Tern

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

Snowy Egret

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Cooper's Hawk

Bald Eagle

Great Horned Owl*

Red-headed Woodpecker

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker

Pileated Woodpecker

Northern Flicker

Blue Jay 

American Crow

Fish Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

Tree Swallow

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

Red-breasted Nuthatch

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch*

Blue-gray Gnatcatchers

Carolina Wren

European Starling

Brown Thrasher

Northern Mockingbird

Eastern Bluebird

Hermit Thrush*

American Robin

House Finch

American Goldfinch

Chipping Sparrow

Dark-eyed Junco

White-throated Sparrow

Song Sparrow

Swamp Sparrow

Eastern Towhee

Red-winged Blackbird

Brown-headed Cowbird

Common Grackle

Common Yellowthroat

Pine Warbler

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Yellow-throated Warbler

Northern Cardinal

 

 

March 19, 2023

 

The March 19, 2023 bird walk was the first since the return to Daylight Savings Time.  Since sunrise wasn't until 7:11 AM, skies were just beginning to lighten.  The weather was cold (40's), skies clear, but winds gusty. The only participants in the morning were Marc Nichols, Hannah Montalvo and Jane Frigo.  Even with such a small group, they were able to identify 58 species during the morning.  Ducks were still around and included Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, American Wigeon and Hooded Merganser.  Regretfully, no Ring-necked Ducks were seen.  Pied-billed Grebes were spotted and two Wood Ducks flew over,  Great Egrets were still present with one male sporting a beautiful breeding plumage cape!  All seven  woodpecker species were seen.  Most winter residents were located including Brown Creeper, both Kinglets and a Hermit Thrush, but no Red-breasted Nuthatch or Fox Sparrow were found.  The group FINALLY found a House Finch.  Hopes are high that some Spring migrants and Summer residents may be in by the first walk in April.  A complete species list follows.

 

Canada Goose

Wood Duck

Northern Shoveler

Gadwall

American Wigeon

Mallard

Hooded Merganser

Pied-billed Grebe

Mourning Dove

Ring-billed Gull 

Herring Gull

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Bald Eagle

Red-shouldered Hawk

Belted Kingfisher

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

Red-headed Woodpecker

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker

Pileated Woodpecker*

Northern Flicker

Blue Jay

American Crow

Fish Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

Tree Swallow

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

Golden-crowned Kinglet

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch

Brown Creeper

Winter Wren

Carolina Wren

Brown Thrasher

Northern Mockingbird

Eastern Bluebird

Hermit Thrush

American Robin

House Finch

American Goldfinch

Chipping Sparrow

Dark-eyed Junco

White-throated Sparrow

Song Sparrow

Swamp Sparrow

Eastern Towhee

Red-winged Blackbird

Brown-headed Cowbird

Pine Warbler

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Northern Cardinal

 

March 4, 2023

 

March always brings challenges for our first Sunday bird walk.  The All City Marathon is scheduled for that date and makes it impossible to get into the park.  To adjust, the bird walk is moved to the Saturday before the race. 16 people attended the Saturday, March 4, 2023 bird walk. Those participating were Kate Schaller, Dianne Snyder, Pete Peterman, Cindy Schulz, Stuart Sweetman, Todd Trousdell, Heidi Young, Rock Moeslein, Marc Nichols, Tom Charlock, Jane Frigo, Beata and Chip Whitehead and Marilyn and John Adair.  The weather that day was clear but very windy.  White caps could be seen on the water.  As on the last walk, Great Egrets were numerous along the shore and in the cove.  Ducks too were seen in good numbers.  Species included Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, American Wigeon, Mallard and Hooded Merganser.  The first Osprey of the season was spotted.   Again, all possible woodpeckers were identified.   Other outstanding species included both Kinglets, a Fox Sparrow, Tree Swallows, Winter Wren, Red-breasted Nuthatch, Purple Finch and Rusty Blackbird.  Finally, a Chipping Sparrow was seen.  Misses were Northern Mockingbird and Virginia Rail.  A complete list follows.

The trip report is available through the following link: https://ebird.org/tripreport/112296

 

Canada Goose

Northern Shoveler

Gadwall

American Wigeon

Mallard

Hooded Merganser

Ring-billed Gull

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Bald Eagle

Red-shouldered Hawk

Red-tailed Hawk

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

Red-headed Woodpecker

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker*

Pileated Woodpecker*

Northern Flicker

Blue Jay

American Crow

Fish Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

Tree Swallow

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

Golden-crowned Kinglet

Red-breasted Nuthatch

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch*

Brown Creeper

Winter Wren 

Carolina Wren

Brown Thrasher

Eastern Bluebird

Hermit Thrush

American Robin

Purple Finch

American Goldfinch

Chipping Sparrow

Fox Sparrow

Dark-eyed Junco

White-throated Sparrow

Song Sparrow

Swamp Sparrow

Eastern Towhee

Rusty Blackbird

Common Grackle

Pine Warbler

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Northern Cardinal

 

February 19, 2023

February 19, 2023 was a very productive birding day!  The group was able to identify 58 species over the morning and that was with a couple of misses like Black Vulture, Northern Mockingbird, Chipping Sparrow and House Finch.  Participants included Bill Boeh, Pete Peterman, John Adair, Cindy Schulz, Heidi Young, Dianne Snyder, Grace Buskirk, June Hartzler, Gary Wright, Marc Nichols, Dave Youker, Sue Tomlin, Hannah Montalvo and Jane Frigo.  The morning began with a large group of Great Egrets congregating in the cove by the Ranger parking lot.  Ducks, too, were in larger numbers.  Hooded Mergansers were in large numbers but also Gadwall.  Several Northern Shovelers and American Wigeon were seen along with a couple Ruddy Duck and Pied-billed Grebe.  All possible Woodpeckers were identified and also all Nuthatches, including Red-breasted.  Several sightings of Winter Wrens were enjoyed and several beautiful Fox Sparrows.  Another great observation a flock of Rusty Blackbirds foraging in the shallows on the way to the Swamp Bridge. They were picking up wet leaves and flicking them in the air.  A SPECIAL NOTE ABOUT THE NEXT WALK-- because of the One City Marathon scheduled for the first Sunday in March, the next walk will be held on SATURDAY, MARCH 4, 2023.  A complete species list follows.

The trip report is available through the following link: https://ebird.org/tripreport/103920

 

Canada Goose 

Northern Shoveler

Gadwall

American Wigeon

Mallard

Hooded Merganser

Ruddy Duck

Pied-billed Grebe

Mourning Dove

Virginia Rail *

Ring-billed Gull

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

Turkey Vulture

Cooper's Hawk

Bald Eagle

Red-shouldered Hawk

Red-tailed Hawk

Belted Kingfisher

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

Red-headed Woodpecker

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker*

Pileated Woodpecker

Northern Flicker

Blue Jay

American Crow

Fish Crow*

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

Tree Swallow

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

Golden-crowned Kinglet

Red-breasted Nuthatch

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch

Brown Creeper

Winter Wren

Carolina Wren

Brown Thrasher

Eastern Bluebird

Hermit Thrush

American Robin

American Goldfinch*

Fox Sparrow

Dark-eyed Junco

White-throated Sparrow

Song Sparrow

SwampSparrow

Eastern Towhee

Red-winged Blackbird

Rusty Blackbird 

Common Grackle

Pine Warbler

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Northern Cardinal

 

February 5, 2023

 

It was cold, but not as bad as the day before when temperatures couldn't get above freezing! Skies were clear and the morning temperature began just above freezing and steadily rose over the morning.  John and Marilyn Adair, Dianne Snyder, Bill Boeh, Stuart Sweetman, Rory Johnson, Cindy Shultz, Sue Tomlin, Jane Frigo and first timer David Yeager participated in the morning walk and were able to identify 53 species!  The cold fronts from the previous week certainly pushed in more ducks! Hooded Mergansers, again, were the dominant species but Gadwall were making headway.  Several Northern Shovelers were spotted along with American Wigeon and Ring-necked Ducks.  The group talked to some hikers who flushed some Wood Ducks from the water at the Swamp Bridge but they could not be found when the group got there. All seven woodpecker species were seen.  Long, long, long trails of blackbirds were enjoyed, and the total number could only be estimated.  Adult and immature Bald Eagles were observed along with a Cooper's and Red-tailed Hawk. There were some misses, however.  They included Winter Wren, Chipping Sparrow and Fox Sparrow.  Another observation, not bird related, was extensive beaver activity around the shoreline near the Ranger station and along the trail to the Swamp Bridge.  It was still a great day to be outside with friends.  A complete species list follows.

The trip report is available through the following link:  https://ebird.org/tripreport/103918

 

Canada Goose

Northern Shoveler

Gadwall

American Wigeon

Mallard

Ring-necked Duck

Hooded Merganser

Mourning Dove

Carolina Wren

Ring-billed Gull

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Cooper's Hawk

Bald Eagle

Red-tailed Hawk

Belted Kingfisher

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

Red-headed Woodpecker

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker

Pileated Woodpecker

Northern Flicker

Blue Jay

American Crow

Fish Crow*

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

Golden-crowned Kinglet

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown Creeper

Carolina Wren

Brown Thrasher

Northern Mockingbird

Eastern Bluebird

Hermit Thrush

American Robin

American Goldfinch

Dark-eyed Junco

White-throated Sparrow

Song Sparrow

Swamp Sparrow

Eastern Towhee

Red-winged Blackbird

Brown-headed Cowbird

Common Grackle

Pine Warbler

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Northern Cardinal

 

January 15, 2023

 

Skies on January 15, 2023 were beautiful but the weather was deceiving.  The temperature turned cold and failed to rise above the 30's.  A stiff wind made it feel like the 20's!    Still, 8 people braved the conditions and identified 46 species over the morning---with justified complaining.  Those hardy souls were Stuart Sweetman, John Adair, Marc Nichols, Pete Peterman, Melissa Freudenberg, Jane Frigo and newcomers Sofia Marino and Ashley Shonk.  Canada Geese were easy to spot and hear.  Other waterfowl included Gadwall, Mallard, Ring-necked Duck, Hooded Merganser, American Wigeon and a flyover of Ruddy Ducks.  Sadly the Northern Shoveler seen at the last walk could not be located.  Many of the birds were sheltering from the cold and wind and were hard to find.  A pair of Bald Eagles, however, were enjoying the breezes and playing "tag".  A sizable group of blackbirds were foraging in the field.  Fox Sparrows were seen near where they were spotted on the last walk.  One of the best sightings was of a Red-tailed Hawk perched right over the path.  The Red-breasted Nuthatch was located at the Arboretum but no Chipping Sparrows were spotted.  In spite of the cold it was still a good day of birding.  A species list follows.

The trip report is available through the following link: https://ebird.org/tripreport/87129

 

Canada Goose

Gadwall

American Wigeon

Mallard

Ring-necked Duck

Hooded Merganser

Ruddy Duck

Mourning Dove

Carolina Wren

Virginia Rail*

Ring-billed Gull

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Turkey Vulture

Bald Eagle

Red-tailed Hawk

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

Red-headed Woodpecker

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Pileated Woodpecker

Blue Jay

American Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

Golden-crowned Kinglet*

Red-breasted Nuthatch

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch

Brown Creeper

Carolina Wren

Brown Thrasher

Northern Mockingbird

Eastern Bluebird

Hermit Thrush

American Robin

American Goldfinch

Fox Sparrow

Dark-eyed Junco

White-throated Sparrow

Song Sparrow

Swamp Sparrow

Eastern Towhee

Red-winged Blackbird

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Northern Cardinal

January 1, 2023

Happy New Year!  2023 began with a nice group of birders participating in a beautiful day and identifying 55 species over the course of the morning.  Those getting a start on their 2023 year list were Marilyn and John Adair, Gary Wright, June Hartzler, Dianne Snyder, Cindy Schulz, Sue Tomlin, Tom Charlock and Jane Frigo.  The morning began with heavy fog and damp, bone chilling conditions even though the temperature was in the 50's and winds were calm.  As the day progressed and the fog burned off it was simply spectacular!  Hooded Mergansers were the dominant duck with Gadwall coming in a close second.  The group thought they had 2 Ruddy ducks but closer inspection revealed they were male Hooded Mergansers hunkered down with tails erect.  A couple males were performing a toe dance for an uninterested female!  One of the best finds was a pair of Northern Shovelers close to shore feeding and later an immature preening.  Laughing, Ring-billed and Herring Gulls were seen.  Great woodpecker sightings were enjoyed and a pair of Fox Sparrows provided a super photo opportunity.  A Purple Finch sighting was also exciting.  Several Virginia Rails were heard on the approach to the Swamp Bridge.  The previous night's rain must have pushed them farther from the dam.  Two of the best birds were seen at the very end of the walk at the Arboretum...a Red-breasted Nuthatch and a Brown Creeper.  There were misses however.  No Black Vulture was seen and yet another walk without a House Finch!  A complete list follows.

The trip report is available through the following link.  https://ebird.org/tripreport/87128.

 

Canada Goose

Northern Shoveler

Gadwall

Mallard

Ring-necked Duck

Hooded Merganser

Mourning Dove

Carolina Wren

Virginia Rail*

Laughing Gull

Ring-billed Gull

Herring Gull

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Turkey Vulture

Bald Eagle

Red-shouldered Hawk

Belted Kingfisher

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

Red-headed Woodpecker

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Pileated Woodpecker

Northern Flicker

Blue Jay

American Crow

Fish Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

Golden-crowned Kinglet

Red-breasted Nuthatch

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch*

Brown Creeper

Winter Wren

Carolina Wren

Brown Thrasher

Northern Mockingbird

Eastern Bluebird

HermitThrush 

American Robin

Purple Finch

American Goldfinch

Chipping Sparrow

Fox Sparrow

Dark-eyed Junco

White-throated Sparrow

Song Sparrow

Swamp Sparrow

Eastern Towhee

Red-winged Blackbird

Pine Warbler

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Northern Cardinal

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Previous Sunday Walk Reports:

2022

2021       2020

2019       2018

2017       2016

2015       2014

2013       2012

2011       2010

2009       2008

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

© 2023 by Hampton Roads Bird Club

Contact: Dave Youker  |  757.344.9385  |  youkerd@aol.com

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