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 link: https://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
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© 2023 by Hampton Roads Bird Club
Contact: Dave Youker | 757.344.9385 | youkerd@aol.com