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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).​

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2025 Bird Walks Summary

October 5, 2025

 

Fall was in full swing on October 5, 2025.  The weather was perfect!  Skies were clear, winds were calm and early morning temperatures were in the 50's but rose through the 70's.  Fall Festivals filled the park and forced the walk to the Campground.  Although not as diverse in habitats, the terrain made for an interesting and shorter walk.  18 people participated.  They included first timers Marta and Ian Fenn, plus frequent participants Tom Charlock, Pete Peterman, Cindy Schulz, Sue Tomlin, John Adair, Mary Jane Hall, Chris Krueger, William and Rachel McKelllar, Heidi Young, Donna McAdams, Stuart Sweetman, Beate Whitehead, Elizabeth Wilkins, Jacque van Montfrans and Jane Frigo.  The group was able to identify 36 species.  The boat dock was undergoing renovation so access was limited.  The walk down the power lines and along the road through the campsites yielded 6 warblers species including excellent views of Cape May, American Redstart, Black and White and Northern Parula.  Northern Flickers  were on the move with several noted.  An Indigo Bunting was heard and several Pileated and Hairy Woodpeckers were seen.  Lastly, a first-of-season (FOS) Yellow-bellied Sapsucker was seen so winter residents are coming!

 

A special "Thank You" to Tom Charlock for getting the word out about the meeting place change and as always to John Adair for faithfully bringing his scope and outstanding "scoping skills" to help participants get a close up look at the birds.  

​

The trip report is: https://ebird.org/tripreport/419219

 

A species list follows.

 

Mourning Dove

Double-crested Cormorant

Turkey Vulture

Bald Eagle

Red-shouldered Hawk

Belted Kingfisher

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker

Pileated Woodpecker

Northern Flicker

Eastern Wood-Pewee

Blue Jay

American Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown Headed Nuthatch

Carolina Wren

Gray Catbird

Brown Thrasher*

Eastern Bluebird

American Robin

House Finch

Chipping Sparrow

Field Sparrow

Common Grackle

Black-and-white Warbler

Common Yellowthroat

American Redstart

Cape May Warbler

Northern Parula

Pine Warbler

Northern Cardinal

Indigo Bunting* 

 

September 21, 2025

 

The walk at Newport News Park on September 21, 2025 brought out19 people who were able to identify 58 species!  Those participating were Dot Johnson, Pete Peterman, Cindy Schulz, Dianne Snyder, Elizabeth Wilkins, Jacques van Montfrans, Marc Nichols, Hannah Montalvo, Stuart Sweetman, Eli Kenyon, Mickey Simonds, Chris and Nichole Krueger, Sue Tomlin, Tom Charlock, Karthik Krishnamurtny, Jane Frigo and first timers Berrett Robinson and Elijah Barron.  The weather was good and 9 warblers were identified--Blue-winged, Black-and-white, Common Yellowthroat, American Redstart, Northern Parula, Magnolia, Pine, Wilson's and Tennessee.  Red-eyed and White-eyed Vireo's were seen along with FOS Ruby-crowned Kinglet!  A Swainson's Thrush was identified and a Veery heard.  Jane Frigo was happy to find the Barred Owl for the group on the way to the Swamp Bridge.  A complete species list will follow.  ****SPECIAL NOTE, the first walk in October will NOT meet at the Ranger Station because of the Fall Festival but will meet across the Reservoir at the Campground Office.  We will explore the powerlines and paths on that side of the water.

​

The trip report is: https://ebird.org/tripreport/415039

 

Canada Goose

Wood Duck

Mallard

Mourning Dove

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Laughing Gull

Forster's Tern

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Egret

Great Blue Heron

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

White-eyed Vireo

Red-eyed Vireo

Blue Jay

American Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch*

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

Blue-winged Warbler

Black-and-white Warbler

CommonYellowthroat

American Redstart

Northern Parula

Magnolia Warbler

Pine Warbler

Wilson's Warbler

Tennessee Warbler

Summer Tanager

Northern Cardinal

Blue Grosbeak

 

September 7, 2025

 

Finally, a hint of Fall in the air!  September 7, 2025 began with very cloudy skies and falling temperatures as a welcome cold front arrived.  Those participating in the walk were Tom Charlock, Dianne Snyder, Dot Johnson, Eric Ferreira, Marc Nichols, Hannah Montalvo, Chris Krueger, Todd Trousdell, Stuart Sweetman, John and Marilyn Adair, Karthik Krishnamurtny, Eli Kenyon, Elizabeth Wilkins, Jacque van Montfrans and Jane Frigo.  The group identified 53 species and one unidentified Tern species.  Lighting was poor but the birds were plentiful and active, almost like a "fallout." Outstanding warblers included Nashville, American Redstart and Blackburnian to name a few.  Multiple Summer Tanagers were seen and an unidentified Tern  worked the water along with Tree Swallows.  The two resident Bald Eagles were back at their perch.  Fear of a shower cut the walk to the Swamp Bridge short but not before reaching Swamp Point where a Northern Waterthrush and a pair of Barred Owls were seen.  The group then headed to the Arboretum and enjoyed snacks under a shelter.  The rain held off so the group backtracked, making a detour down Stable Road where a Red-shouldered Hawk was spotted but not much else.  Continuing on to the Discovery Center, the group added Blue Grosbeak, Northern Mockingbird and Brown Thrasher.  A complete species list follows.  

​

The trip report is: https://ebird.org/tripreport/410293

 

Mallard

Mourning Dove

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

Laughing Gull

tern species

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Egret

Great Blue Heron

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Bald Eagle

Red-shouldered Hawk

Barred Owl

Belted Kingfisher

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker*

Pileated Woodpecker

Eastern Wood-Pewee*

Acadian Flycatcher*

Great Crested Flycatcher*

Red-eyed Vireo

Blue Jay

American Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

Tree Swallow

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch*

Blue-gray Gnatcatchers

Northern House Wren

Carolina Wren

Brown Thrasher

Northern Mockingbird

Eastern Bluebird

American Robin

Cedar Waxwing

House Finch

American Goldfinch

Chipping Sparrow

Common Grackle

Northern Waterthrush

Nashville Warbler

Common Yellowthroat

American Redstart

Blackburnian Warbler

Chestnut-sided Warbler

Pine Warbler

Yellow-throated Warbler

Black-throated Green Warbler

Summer Tanager

Northern Cardinal 

Blue Grosbeak

 

August 17, 2025

 

Summer is winding down.  August 17, 2025 was a bit cooler but still in the 80's and humid.  Birds were quiet, as expected, but still 52 species were identified.  The group making the identifications included Bill Boeh, Tom Charlock, Cindy Schulz, John and Marilyn Adair, Marc Nichols, Stuart Sweetman, Melissa Freudenburg, Julie Fucarino, Jason Strickland and sons Jason and Landon, Jane Frigo and first timer Eric Ferreira.  The Bald Eagle was not at his usual spot but fortunately was seen later in the morning.  A surprise Pied-billed Grebe was spotted and a Forster's Tern joined the Laughing Gulls in the air and on the pipeline.  A single Spotted Sandpiper hugged the shoreline and later a group of 9 unidentified sandpipers species were spotted flying toward Route 143.  Belted Kingfishers were busy and a couple Purple Martins and Green Herons were seen.  Eastern Wood Pewees were busy and dragonflies were everywhere!  One of the most interesting observations was the many mushrooms scattered through the park.  The various sizes, shapes and colors were amazing!!!  Early migration and winter residents should begin  arriving next month.  A complete list of species recorded August 17 follows.

​

The trip report is: https://ebird.org/tripreport/403468

 

Canada Goose

Mallard

Mourning Dove

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Spotted Sandpiper 

Sandpiper species

Laughing Gull

Forster's Tern

Pied-billed Grebe

Double-crested Cormorant

Green Heron

Great Blue Heron

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Bald Eagle

Red-shouldered Hawk*

Belted Kingfisher

Red-headed Woodpecker

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker

Pileated Woodpecker

Eastern Wood-Pewee

Acadian Flycatcher

Great Crested Flycatcher

White-eyed Vireo*

Red-eyed Vireo

Blue Jay

American Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

Purple Martin

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

Pine Warbler*

Summer Tanager

Northern Cardinal

Blue Grosbeak

Indigo Bunting*

 

August 3, 2025

 

At last a slight break from the heat and humidity!  August 3, 2025 skies were partly cloudy and the temperature was in the low 70's with tolerable humidity and light breezes.  Those choosing to enjoy the morning outdoors were Pete Peterman, Dianne Snyder, Tom Charlock, Delaney Owens, Julie Fucarino, Marilyn and John Adair, Dot Johnson, Laurie and Don Brunk (and Lilly), Heidi Young, Karthik Krishnamurtny, Stuart Sweetman, Lori Palagyi, Kate Schaller, Elizabeth Wilkins, Jacques van Montfrans and his grandson Coen, Jane Frigo, first timer Ben Thompson and Tennessee visitor Ken Dubois.  The group identified 47 species.  As expected for August things were slow as birds recovered from raising families and prepared for fall migration.  Several Laughing Gulls and a Double-crested Cormorant were spotted, but no shore birds.  The Bald Eagle was not on his usual perch but both an adult and juvenile were spotted by the end of the morning.  Good views of Eastern Wood Pewee, Great Crested Flycatchers and Eastern Kingbirds were enjoyed by all.  A Purple Martin was seen but no Barn Swallows.  No Fish Crows were seen or heard!  Goldfinches were active as were Chipping Sparrows.  Common Yellowthroats and a beautiful male Blue Grosbeak were seen at the Swamp Bridge.  A single Prothonotary Warbler was seen when the group was leaving the Spawning Pond.  A complete Species list follows.

​

The trip report is: https://ebird.org/tripreport/400158

 

Canada Goose

Mallard

Mourning Dove

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Laughing Gull

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Egret

Great Blue Heron

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Bald Eagle

Belted Kingfisher

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Pileated Woodpecker*

Eastern Wood-Pewee

Acadian Flycatcher*

Great Crested Flycatcher

Eastern Kingbird

Red-eyed Vireo*

Blue Jay

American Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

Purple Martin

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch

Blue-gray Gnatcatchers

Carolina Wren

Brown Thrasher

Northern Mockingbird

Eastern Bluebird

American Robin

House Finch 

American Goldfinch

Chipping Sparrow

Song Sparrow

Red-winged Blackbird

Brown-headed Cowbird

Common Grackle

Prothonotary Warbler

Common Yellowthroat

Summer Tanager

Northern Cardinal

Blue Grosbeak

Indigo Bunting

 

July 20, 2025

 

July 20, 2025 was another hot and humid summer day.  Overcast skies helped make the walk more tolerable.  18 people participated.  They were John Adair, Delaney Owens, Dianne Snyder, Cindy Schulz, Marc Nichols, Dot Johnson, Chris Kreuger, William and Rachel MeKellar, Stuart Sweetman, Elizabeth Wilkins, Jacques van Montfrans, Eli Kenyon, Todd Trousdal, Mickey Simonds, Julie Fucarino and Jane Frigo.  A lone Laughing Gull and a lone Double Crested Cormorant flew over so at least those species were counted.  Green Herons and Belted Kingfishers were seen.  A pair of adult Eagles were perched on their favorite dead tree.  Flycatchers were busy eating the bountiful bugs and dragonflies.  Barn Swallows seemed to be done nesting under the Spawning Pond Bridge but remained in the area.  At the Discovery Center an Eastern Bluebird was seen gathering pine straw for a new nest.  The interesting thing was he didn't enter the front hole, but kept sneaking in the side of the box where the air vent was cut!  Some misses were Red-winged Blackbirds, Northern Parula, Brown-headed Nuthatch and Barred Owl to name a few.  William and Rachel left the group to explore the Lakeside Trail and were able to hear a Yellow-throated Vireo.  Eli spotted two juvenile Cooper's Hawks on his way out of the park.  Everyone is ready for Fall to arrive.  A species list follows.

​

The trip report is: https://ebird.org/tripreport/396353

 

Canada Goose

Mallard

Mourning Dove

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Laughing Gull

Double-crested  Cormorant

Green Heron

Great Blue Heron

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Cooper's Hawk

Belted Kingfisher

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy 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

Blue-gray Gnatcatchers

Carolina Wren

Brown Thrasher

Northern Mockingbird

Eastern Bluebird

American Robin

House Finch

American Goldfinch

Chipping Sparrow

Brown-headed Cowbird

Common Grackle

Prothonotary Warbler

Common Yellowthroat

Pine Warbler*

Summer Tanager*

Northern Cardinal

Blue Grosbeak

Indigo Bunting

 

July 6, 2025

​

July has arrived and so has the heat and humidity. In spite  of the miserable weather conditions 25 people participated in the July 6, 2025 Sunday walk.  First timers were Dot Johnson, Pam and Delaney Owens, Lisa Fannin, Julie Fucarino, Preston McKellar, and Eli Kenyon.  Old timers were Dianne Snyder, Marc Nichols, Tom Charlock, Don and Laurie Brunk (and Lilly), William and Rachel McKellar, John and Marilyn Adair, Mickey Simonds, Cindy Schulz, Chris and Nichole Krueger, Lori and Will Palagyi, Melissa Freudenberg, Stuart Sweetman and Jane Frigo.  Birds seemed to be suffering from the heat as much as participants.  Most were quiet and it was assumed that many were between clutches. Still 51 species were identified.  The Green Heron made several flyby appearances.  Barn Swallows were still tending their nests under the Spawning Pond overlook.   There were wonderful views of Great Crested Flycatchers.  There were many misses including Canada Goose, Belted Kingfisher, Brown Thrasher and Barred Owl.  A complete species list follows.

​

The trip report is: https://ebird.org/tripreport/392742

 

Mallard

Mourning Dove

Yellow-billed Cuckoo*

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Laughing Gull

Green Heron

Great Egret

Great Blue Heron

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Bald Eagle

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy 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 Swallows

White-breasted Nuthatch

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

Carolina Wren

Northern Mockingbird

Eastern Bluebird

American Robin

Cedar Waxwing

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 15, 2025

​

Happy Father’s Day!!  The June 15, 2025 walk fell on another holiday and it was fun to seen so many father’s choosing to spend part of their time outdoors with fellow birders.  The weather was not too pleasant.  It was cloudy, calm and very humid with rain threatening but fortunately never arriving.  21 people participated:  Jim Harrison, Bill Boeh, Marc Nichols, Stuart Sweetman, Don and Laurie Brunk, John and Marilyn Adair, Pete Peterman, Dianne Snyder, Todd Trousdell, Rachel and William McKellar, Karthik Krishnamurtny, Melissa Freudenberg, Hannah Montalvo, Heidi Young, Jane Frigo and newcomers Paul, Maureen and Lauren.  The group was able to identify 59 species.  Probably the most exciting sighting of the day was a flyover of 4 Glossy Ibis!  Barn Swallows are still nesting under the Spawning Pond boardwalk.  An Acadian Flycatcher was observed on her nest just off the path at Swamp Point.  The nest was easy to see and momma kept a close eye on us but remained on her nest. An Orchard Oriole and Ovenbird were heard for the first time this year.  Interestingly, not a single Canada Goose was heard or seen.  A complete species list follows.

 

Wood Duck

Mallard

Mourning Dove

Chimney Swift

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Royal Tern

Glossy Ibis

Green Heron*

Great Egret

Great Blue Heron

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Bald Eagle

Red-tailed Hawk

Barred Owl

Belted Kingfisher

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker* 

Pileated Woodpecker

Eastern Wood-Pewee

Acadian Flycatcher

Eastern Phoebe

Great Crested Flycatcher

Eastern Kingbird

White-eyed Vireo*

Yellow-throated Vireo*

Red-eyed Vireo*

Blue Jay

American Crow

Fish Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

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

Ovenbird*

Prothonotary Warbler

Common Yellowthroat

Northern Parula

Pine Warbler*

Yellow-throated Warbler*

Summer Tanager

Northern Cardinal

Blue Grosbeak

Indigo Bunting

​

June 1, 2025

 

The day began with cool temperatures beginning in the 50’s and rising to the 70’s. Those participating in the walk were Dianne Snyder, Lori and Will Palagyi, Stuart Sweetman, Marc Nichols, Sue Tomlin, Kate Schiller, Danny Smith, Chris and Nichole Krueger, Cindy Schulz, Don and Lori Brunk, Mickey Simonds, Tom Charlock, John and Marilyn Adair and Jane Frigo.  The group identified 60 species over the morning.  The most exciting sighting occurred at the Swamp Bridge.  For the first time in many, many years a Chuck Will’s Widow was seen by Stuart and Marc! All three vireo’s were heard as was the shy Yellow-billed Cuckoo.  Flycatchers were active with Eastern Wood Pewee, Great Crested, Eastern Kingbird and Acadian seen.  Swallows were active with Tree, Northern Rough-winged and Barn seen.  The Barn Swallows were building nests under the Spawning Pond overlook.  Even the Barred Owl made an appearance!  One surprising miss was a Blue Jay!  A complete species list follows.

​

The trip report is: https://ebird.org/tripreport/381727

 

Canada Goose

Mallard

Mourning Dove 

Chuck-wills-widow

Yellow-billed Cuckoo*

Chimney Swift

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Royal Tern

Double-crested Cormorant

Green Heron 

Great Egret

Great Blue Heron

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Cooper’s Hawk

Bald Eagle

Red-shouldered Hawk

Red-tailed Hawk

Barred Owl

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker*

Pileated Woodpecker

Eastern Wood-Pewee

Acadian Flycatcher

Great Crested Flycatcher

Eastern Kingbird

White-eyed Vireo*

Yellow-throated Vireo

Red-eyed Vireo

American Crow’

Fish Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

Tree Swallow

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

Barn Swallow

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher*

Carolina Wren

Gray Catbird

Brown Thrasher

Northern Mockingbird

Eastern Bluebird

American Robin

American Goldfinch

Chipping Sparrow

Red-winged Blackbird

Brown-headed Cowbird

Common Grackle

Prothonotary Warbler

Common Yellowthroat

American Redstart

Northern Parula

Pine Warbler

Yellow-throated Warbler*

Summer Tanager

Northern Cardinal

Blue Grosbeak*

Indigo Bunting

 

May 18, 2025

​

With much of the last walk rained out, May 18, 2025 turned out great! Skies were clear, winds calm and the temperature stayed in the 70’s.  It was decided to walk the whole loop of the White Oak trail after circling the Ranger Parking lot.  Those participating in the first part of the walk only were Dianne Snyder, Sarah Saville, Chris and Nichole Krueger, Tom Charlock, Lauren Forera, Mary Nelson, Hannah Montalvo and Virginia Boyles. The remainder of the group—Dot Johnson, Bill Boeh, Mickey Simonds, Marc Nichols, Stuart Sweetman, Melissa Freudenberg, Susan Maples, John Adair and Jane Frigo completed the White Oak trail.  Lauren, who is also a Park Ranger, was very helpful and mentioned that serveral birds that had been spotted in the campground area around the power lines including Chat, Hooded Warbler, Spotted and Solitary Sandpiper.  Ten warblers were identified over the morning—Ovenbird, Prothonotary, Common Yellowthroat, American Redstart, Northern Parula, Yellow Warbler, Chestnut-sided, Blackpoll, Pine and Yellow-throated.  Summer Tanagers had also arrived along with Acadian Flycatchers.  Another special find was a Swainson’s Thrush.  Alas, no Waterthrushes or Owls were seen.  A complete list follows.

​

The trip report is:  https://ebird.org/tripreport/372958

 

Canada Goose

Mallard

Mourning Dove

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Double-crested Cormorant

Green Heron

Great Egret

Great Blue Heron

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Bald Eagle

Red-tailed Hawk

Red-headed Woodpecker*

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Pileated Woodpecker

Eastern Wood-Pewee

Acadian Flycatchers

Eastern Phoebe

Great Crested Flycatcher

Eastern Kingbird

White-eyed Vireo*

Yellow-throated Vireo*

Red-eyed Vireo

Blue Jay

American Crow

Fish Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

Barn Swallow

White-breasted Nuthatch*

Brown-headed Nuthatch*

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

Carolina Wren

Brown Thrasher

Northern Mockingbird

Eastern Bluebird

Swainson’s Thrush*

American Robin

House Finch

American Goldfinch

Chipping Sparrow

Red-winged Blackbird

Brown-headed Cowbird

Common Grackle

Ovenbird

Prothonotary Warbler

Common Yellowthroat

American Redstart*

Northern Parula

Yellow Warbler*

Chestnut-sided Warbler

Blackpoll Warbler

Pine Warbler

Yellow-throated Warbler

Summer Tanager

Northern Cardinal

Blue Grosbeak*

Indigo Bunting

May 4, 2025

​

The day began with overcast skies and an approaching cold front expected to bring heavy rain.  The first bird walk in May usually involves a walk around the reservoir on the 2 1/2 mile White Oak Trail in search of warblers like Waterthrush and Ovenbirds.  However, with the threatening weather that plan had to be changed.  Still, 10 birders showed up at 7 AM and were able to identify 33 species in before 8:30 AM when the skies really opened up.  Those participating were Chris and Nichole Krueger, Sue Tomlin, John Adair, Cindy Schulz, Tom Charlock, Susan Maples, Melissa Freudenberg, Jane Frigo and first timers Abigail Brown and Aussie Chris Jamieson.  Several birds were just heard like first of season American Redstart.  Several Great Egrets were spotted but no Great Blue Herons.  Side by side views of Spotted and Solitary Sandpipers gave a wonderful chance notice field marks.  As an added bit of information, Nichole showed us “dog vomit slime” a fungi most have seen in their gardens at one time another!  A complete bird species list follows.

​

The trip report is: https://ebird.org/tripreport/361721

 

Canada Goose

Mallard

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Solitary Sandpiper

Spotted Sandpiper

Great Egret

Osprey

Bald Eagle

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker*

Hairy Woodpecker* 

Pileated Woodpecker

Eastern Wood Pewee

Great Crested Flycatcher

Blue Jay

American Crow

Fish Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

White-breasted Nuthatch*

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher*

Carolina Wren

Eastern Bluebird

American Robin

American Goldfinch

Chipping Sparrow*

Brown-headed Cowbird

Common Grackle

Common Yellowthroat*

American Redstart*

Pine Warbler

Yellow-throated Warbler*

Northern Cardinal

 

April 20, 2025

 

Easter Sunday fell on April 20, 2025.  The weather was in the 70’s, winds were calm and skies were cloudy.  Turn out for this walk was rather small—only 7 participated.  They included Dianne Snyder, Cindy Schulz, Tom Charlock, Karthik Krishnamurtny, Jane Frigo and first-time visitor Laura Bowles.  The group still identified 56 species!  A Ruby-crowned Kinglet was still around but all Golden-crowned Kinglets had left.  New arrivals included Green Heron, Eastern Kingbird, Great Crested Flycatcher and Gray Catbird.  As usual, the group looked for the Barred Owl without success until running into a HRBC member, Honey Marsh.  She was able to take the group back to Swamp Point and found a pair of Barred Owls!  For the second time the group thought they may have heard a Red-headed Woodpecker but uncertainty left it off the list.  A heads-up for the first Sunday walk in May, the group will probably make a circle on the White Oak Trail instead of the usual route.  This will give a little variety and hope is to find different species like Ovenbirds and Waterthrush.  A complete species list follows.

 

Canada Goose

Wood Duck

Mallard

Mourning Dove

Laughing Gull

Royal Tern

Double-crested Cormorant

Green Heron

Great Egret

Great Blue Heron

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Bald Eagle

Barred Owl

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker

Pileated Woodpecker

Eastern Phoebe*

Great Crested Flycatcher

Eastern Kingbird

Red-eyed Vireo*

Blue Jay

American Crow

Fish Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

Tree Swallow

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch*

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

Carolina Wren

Gray Catbird

Brown Thrasher

Northern Mockingbird

Eastern Bluebird

Hermit Thrush

American Robin

House Finch

American Goldfinch 

Chipping Sparrow

White-throated Sparrow

Swamp Sparrow

Eastern Towhee*

Red-winged Blackbird

Brown-headed Cowbird

Common Grackle

Prothonotary Warbler

Common Yellowthroat

Northern Parula 

Pine Warbler*

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Yellow-throated Warbler

Northern Cardinal

 

April 6, 2025

 

Spring has arrived and change is in the air.  Today’s, April 6, 2025, began with adjustments.  The Ranger parking lot was blocked so the morning meeting place was moved to the next available shelter lot.  Dianne Snyder helped to direct participants.  22 people participated.  They included Bill Boeh, Dianne Snyder, Hannah Montalvo, John and Marilyn Adair, Donna McAdams,  Cathy Bond, Bob and Margie Gomez, Mary Jane Hall, William and Rachel McKellar, Larry Hose, Danny Smith, Stuart Sweetman, Lauren Forero, Tom Charlock, Shawn Dash, Todd Trousdell, Marc Nichols, Heidi Young and Jane Frigo.  The group identified 60 species.  The weather was clear and windy.  The temperature reached a warm 85 degrees!  Needless to say, most of the ducks had departed. A Ruddy duck and a Pied-billed Grebe were spotted along with resident Canada Geese, Mallard and Wood Duck.  New arrivals included Royal Tern, White-eyed Vireo, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, Black-and-white Warbler, Prothonotary Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Northern Parula, Palm Warbler and Yellow-throated Warbler.   Two interesting observations were of a Blue Jay construction a nest—carefully placing sticks to form a base, and an Eastern Bluebird working on  a tree cavity.  As always, it was a wonderful way to spend the morning .  A complete species list follows.

​

The trip report is: https://ebird.org/tripreport/348547

 

Canada Goose

Wood Duck

Mallard

Ruddy Duck

Mourning Dove

Laughing Gull

Royal Tern

Pied-billed Grebe

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Egret

Great Blue Heron

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Northern Harrier

Bald Eagle

Red-tailed Hawk

Belted Kingfisher

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker

Pileated Woodpecker

Northern Flicker

Eastern Phoebe

White-eyed Vireo*

Blue Jay

Fish Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

Tree Swallow

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

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

Brown-headed Cowbird

Rusty Blackbird

Common Grackle

Black-and-white Warbler*

Prothonotary Warbler*

Common Yellowthroat

Northern Parula

Palm Warbler

Pine Warbler

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Yellow-throated Warbler

Northern Cardinal

 

March 16, 2025

​

 March 16, 2025 was cool, calm and overcast.  Thunderstorms and high winds were predicted to move in later in the day.  Those participating in the morning were Kate Schaller, Marc Nichols, Chris and Nicole Krueger, Dianne Snyder, Pete Peterman, Ellis Maxey, Cindy Schultz, Stuart Sweetman, John and Marilyn Adair, Bill Boeh, Mickey Simonds, Karthick Krishnamurtny, Melissa Freudenberg, Sarah Ware, Hannah Montalvo, Tom Charlock, William and Rachel McKellar, Jane Frigo and newcomers Larry Hose, Bob and Margie Gomez and Jennifer McPeters.  With so many eyes and ears the group was able to identify 64 species.  Many waterfowl were still including Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, Ring-necked Duck, Hooded Merganser, Ruddy Duck and Pied-billed Grebe.  As for woodpeckers, all 6 species were seen with only the Red-headed still absent.  The group had quite a discussion over the identification of an accipiter demonstrating how different individuals see things.  With this bird it was whether the tail was straight or notched and whether the head was round or raised.  Many photos were taken and the discussion will continue.  All other winter residents were still found although some may leave before the next walk.  Hopefully some migrants and summer residents will arrive by the next walk.  A spectacular sight was a large group of tree swallows filling the air.  When they tired themselves out some rested on the branches of a tree in the water and made it look like a Christmas tree full of ornaments!  Finally, on the walk back from the Swamp Bridge the Barred Owl was spotted!!!  A complete species follows.

 

​

The trip report is: https://ebird.org/tripreport/341538

 

Canada Goose

Northern Shoveler

Gadwall

Mallard

Ring-necked Duck

Hooded Merganser

Ruddy Duck

Mourning Dove

Ring-billed Gull

Pied-billed Grebe

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Egret

Great Blue Heron

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Sharp-shinned Hawk

Cooper's Hawk

Bald Eagle

Barred Owl

Belted Kingfisher

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker

Pileated Woodpecker

Northern Flicker

Peregrine Falcon

Eastern Phoebe

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 Sparrow

House Finch*

American Goldfinch

Chipping Sparrow

Field Sparrow

Dark-eyed Junco

White-throated Sparrow

Song Sparrow

Swamp Sparrow

Eastern Towhee

Red-winged Blackbird

Brown-headed Cowbird

Rusty Blackbird

Common Grackle

Pine Warbler

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Northern Cardinal

​

March 1, 2025

 

March has begun and the first walk of the month always falls on same date as the Newport News ALL CITY MARATHON.  This 26 mile race begins at Newport News City Park and hence prevents us from meeting on Sunday.  As a compromise, the park walk is moved to the Saturday preceding  the race.  Such was the case this year.  Saturday, March 1, 2025, turned out to be the better of the two days weather wise.  The skies were clear to partly cloudy, winds were relatively calm and temperatures began in the 40's and climbed to the 70's.  Those participating in the morning were John and Marilyn Adair, William and Rachel McKellar, Dianne Snyder, Dave Brown, Bill Boeh, Shawn Dash, Rock Moeslein, Todd Trousdell, Sue Tomlin, Tom Charlock, and Jane Frigo.  The group identified 54 species, missed a few target birds and had some memorable experiences.  A survey of ducks began the morning with Ruddies, Mergansers and Gadwall making up the most in numbers of waterfowl seen.  Several Great Egrets added a burst of light to the shaded areas.  A pair of Belted Kingfishers traveled up and down the water with their rattling vocalization. A cooperative pair of Red-tailed Hawks sat shoulder to shoulder, one facing forward, one facing backward.   A once-in-a-lifetime scene played out involving a Coopers Hawk and a Fish Crow.  The hawk singled out a crow and went in for the attack and captured the crow with both plunging into the water.  The hawk held on as the crow struggled and his family screamed and circled above.  The interaction went on for several minutes with the outcome uncertain.  The hawk was unable to lift itself from the water with the crow.  Eventually the hawk let go and barely was able to lift itself out of the water and reach a limb on shore to recover.  A final trip to the Swamp Bridge yielded Rusty Blackbirds and a Bald Eagle!  It was a great day and all were tired.  A complete species list follows.  

​

The trip report is: https://ebird.org/tripreport/336648

 

Canada Goose

Wood Duck

Northern Shoveler

Gadwall

American Wigeon

Mallard

Ring-necked Duck

Hooded Merganser

Ruddy Duck

Mourning Dove

Virginia Rail*

Ring-billed Gull

Pied-billed Grebe

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Egret

Great Blue Heron

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Cooper's Hawk

Bald Eagle

Red-tailed Hawk

Belted Kingfisher

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy 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 Creeper

Winter Wren

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

Rusty Blackbird

Pine Warbler

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Northern Cardinal

 

February 16, 2025

​

The day began with left over drizzle, very cloudy skies and the threat of high winds reaching 40-60 mph by mid morning but temperatures in the 60’s.  Marc Nichols, Tina White, Rachel and William McKellar, Sue Tomlin and Jane Frigo were determined to make the most of the time they had and were able to identify 55 species before 10 AM.  Ducks were the first to be checked out.  11 species were seen with Ruddies, Hoodies and Gadwall making up the most numerous species but American Wigeon, Green-winged Teal, Lesser Scaup, Common Loon and Pied-billed Grebe added to the mix.  Surprisingly, no Ring-necked Ducks were spotted.  Several Great Egret remained but not nearly in the numbers seen on the last walk.  6 sparrow species were identified with multiple Field Sparrows fluttering in the meadow area under the power lines at the Discovery Center.  Notable misses were Brown-headed Nuthatch, Brown Creeper and Northern Flicker.  A complete species list follows.   Also a special note…..The next park walk will be held on Saturday instead.

​

The trip report is: https://ebird.org/tripreport/333463

​

Canada Goose

Wood Duck

Northern Shoveler

Gadwall

American Wigeon

Mallard

Green-winged Teal

Lesser Scaup

Hooded Merganser

Ruddy Duck

Mourning Dove

Killdeer

Ring-billed Gull

Pied-billed Grebe

Common Loon

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Egret

Great Blue Heron

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Bald Eagle

Red-tailed Hawk

Belted Kingfisher

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker

Pileated Woodpecker

Blue Jay

American Crow

Fish Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

Golden-crowned Kinglet

White-breasted Nuthatch

Winter Wren

Carolina Wren

Brown Thrasher

Northern Mockingbird

Eastern Bluebird

Hermit Thrush

American Robin

American Goldfinch

Field Sparrow

Dark-eyed Junco

White-throated Sparrow

Song Sparrow

Swamp Sparrow

Eastern Towhee*

Red-winged Blackbird

Common Grackle

Pine Warbler*

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Northern Cardinal

 

February 2, 2025

 

February 2025 has arrived and last week’s frozen waterways are gone.  However, the morning temperature remained in the 30’s and conditions were cold enough to pass out hand warmers.  VSO (Virginia Society of Ornithology) was having their Winter Retreat to the Outer Banks this weekend and so a smaller group was expected at the park.  That turned out not to be true.  21 people showed up for the Sunday walk and identified 55 species. Those participating included Elizabeth Wilkins and Jacques van Montfrans, Nichole and Chris Kruegar, Bill Boeh, June Hartzler and Gary Wright, William and Rachel McKellar, Cindy Schulz, Todd Trousdell, Marilyn and John Adair, Stuart Sweetman, Karthik Krishnamurtny, Sue Tomlin, Marc Nichols, Mickey Simonds, Melissa Freudenberg, Jane Frigo and first timer Oriana Palumbo from South Carolina.  The group began with a spectacular sighting of over 20 Great Egrets sheltering in the inlet by the Ranger Parking Lot.  The count for egrets for the morning totaled over 30!  Next the search was on for ducks.  The Common Goldeneye, seen during the last walk, was found again along with many Ruddy Ducks and Gadwall.  Several Northern Shovelers were found and that circling feeding behavior was observed.   Elizabeth and Jacques walked a bit farther past the Swamp Bridge looking for the swans but were unsuccessful.  However they did see Wood Ducks. A lone Laughing Gull was found among the Double-crested Cormorants and Ring-billed Gulls on the pipeline.  Sparrows were well represented with Field Sparrow, Fox Sparrow, Dark-eyed Junco, White-throats, Song and Swamp seen and also Eastern Towhee.  Hermit Thrush remained along their road to the Spawning Pond and silently watched as the group walked by.  There was talk of a pair of Tundra Swans being seen at the park but they could not be found by the group.  However, John Adair, on his return from the Swamp Bridge, may have flushed them but we can’t be sure.  Definitely something to keep looking for next time.  A complete species list follows.

​

The trip report is: https://ebird.org/tripreport/326874

 

Canada Goose

Wood Duck

Northern Shoveler

Gadwall

Mallard

Bufflehead

Common Goldeneye

Hooded Merganser

Ruddy Duck

Mourning Dove

Virginia Rail*

Laughing Gull 

Ring-billed Gull

Pied-billed Grebe

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Egrets

Great Blue Heron

Turkey Vulture

Bald Eagle

Belted Kingfisher

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

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-headed Nuthatch*

Brown Creeper

Winter Wren

Carolina Wren

Brown Thrasher

Northern Mockingbird

Eastern Bluebird

Hermit Thrush

American Robin

American Goldfinch

Field Sparrow

Fox Sparrow

Dark-eyed Junco

White-throated Sparrow

Song Sparrow

Swamp Sparrow

Eastern Towhee

Red-winged Blackbird

Brown-headed Cowbird

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Northern Cardinal

 

January 19, 2025

 

The day began with very overcast skies and even fog in some areas.  The temperature was above freezing and rose to the mid forties.  Winds were calm but still there was a distinct chill to the air.  15 people participated in the Newport News Park bird walk.  They included Bill Boeh, Pete Peterman, Dianne Snyder, Rachel and William McKellar, Danny Smith, John and Marilyn Adair, Stuart Sweetman, Chris Kruegar, Mickey Simonds, Marc Nichols, Hannah Montalvo, Karthik Krishnamurtny and Jane Frigo.  Over the morning the group identified 58 species.  Areas of the reservoir remain frozen and will certainly increase with the frigid temperatures predicted for next week.  Waterfowl made up a big number of species.  Large numbers of Hooded Mergansers, Gadwall and Ruddy Ducks were identified.  Other ducks identified included Northern Shoveler, American Wigeon, American Black Duck, Green-winged Teal, Bufflehead, American Coot and Pied-billed Grebe and a fly-over Wood Duck.  Ring-billed Gulls were plentiful both resting on the water and circling in the air.  Several Bald Eagles were seen and one pair was observed coupling.  Great Egrets missing in recent walks numbered 10 or more.  Woodpeckers were also abundant with all but the Red-headed seen.  Hermit Thrush continue to be seen and actually follow the group through the park.  Kinglets and Titmice were busy foraging.  A complete species list follows.

​

The trip report is: https://ebird.org/tripreport/321995

 

Canada Goose

Wood Duck

Northern Shoveler

Gadwall

American Wigeon

Mallard

American Black Duck

Green-winged Teal

Ring- necked Duck

Bufflehead

Hooded Merganser

Ruddy Duck

Mourning Dove

American Coot

Ring-billed Gull

Pied-billed Grebe

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Egret

Great Blue Heron

Sharp-shinned Hawk

Bald Eagle

Red-tailed Hawk

Belted Kingfisher

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker

Pileated Woodpecker

Northern Flicker

Eastern Phoebe

Blue Jay

American Crow

Fish 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

House Finch*

American Goldfinch

Dark-eyed Junco

White-throated Sparrow

Song Sparrow

Swamp Sparrow

Eastern Towhee

Red-winged Blackbird

Pine Warbler

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Northern Cardinal

 

January 5, 2025

​

Happy New Year 2025!  January 5 began another year of birding at Newport News City Park.  The weather was freezing with the morning temperature  24 degrees and only warming to the low 40’s by the end of the day.  Although skies were clear for most of the day, winds were variable and made hand warmers and gloves a necessity.  Still, nine hardy birders met the challenge and identified 55 species for the morning.  Those facing the cold were Marc Nichols, Pete Peterman, Danny Smith, John Adair, Cindy Schulz, Stuart Sweetman, Mary Jane Hall, Melissa Freudenberg and Jane Frigo.  Right off the bat, Marc Nichols spotted a hen Common Goldeneye! The rare visitor sparked excitement and led to a chase to insure everyone got to see her and discuss field marks, etc.  Overall the cold weather brought an abundance of ducks to the water.  Those species seen included Canada Geese, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, American Wigeon, Mallard, American Black Ducks, Green-winged Teal, Ring-necked Duck, Greater Scaup, Common Goldeneye, Hooded Merganser, Ruddy Duck and Pied-billed Grebe!  All woodpecker species were seen with the exception of Red-headed.  Sadly, they have been missing for some time.  Sparrows were also abundant including a Fox Sparrow, Dark-eyed Juncos, White-throated Sparrows, Song Sparrows, Swamp Sparrows, Eastern Towhee and a possible Savannah Sparrow.  A single Rusty Blackbird was glimpsed near the Swamp Bridge.  Ice dotted the area and future weather forecasts more cold weather and possible snow for the coming week.  A complete species list follows.

​

The trip report is:  https://ebird.org/tripreport/317411

 

Canada Goose

Northern Shoveler

Gadwall

American Wigeon

Mallard

American Black Duck

Green-winged Teal

Ring-necked Duck

Greater Scaup

Common Goldeneye

Hooded Merganser

Ruddy Duck

Mourning Dove

Ring-billed Gull

Pied-billed Grebe

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Turkey Vulture

Sharp-shinned Hawk

Bald Eagle

Belted Kingfisher

Yellow-billed Sapsucker

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-headed Nuthatch*

Winter Wren

Carolina Wren

Brown Thrasher

Northern Mockingbird

 

​

 

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Previous Sunday Walk Reports:​

 

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2019       2018

2017       2016

2015       2014

2013       2012

2011       2010

2009       2008

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© 2023 by Hampton Roads Bird Club

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

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