September 15, 2024

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September 15, 2024 seemed to come around too quickly!  The day was breezy, humid and cloudy. The temperature stayed in the 80's.  A few leaves were starting to fall and the movement made many do a double take to verify if the sighting was a bird or a leaf!  19 people participated in the challenge.  They were Samantha Denney, John and Marilyn Adair, Marc Nichols, Dianne Snyder, Stuart Sweetman, Cindy Schulz, Danny Smith, Heidi Young. Donna McAdams, Terry Moore, Sarah Ware, Nichole and Chris Kruegar, Tom Charlock, Bill Boeh, Hannah Montalvo, Karthik Krishnamurtny and Jane Frigo.  The group identified 54 species.  This morning only one American Robin could be identified and that was by sound!  Mallards, too, were only heard! Summer residents still  around included Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Eastern Wood-Pewee, White-eyed and Red-eyed Vireo and Blue-gray Gnatcatchers.  Migrating warblers seen included Northern Waterthrush, Black-and-white Warbler, American Redstart, Northern Parula, Blackburnian Warbler and Prairie Warbler.  A Veery was also heard!  The Red-headed Woodpecker was seen again at Swamp Point but no Barred Owls were found.  A complete species list follows.

​

The trip report link is:  https://ebird.org/tripreport/274969

 

Canada Goose 

Mallard*

Mourning Dove

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Laughing Gull

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Bald Eagle

Red-shouldered Hawk

Red-tailed Hawk

Belted Kingfisher

Red-headed Woodpecker

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Pileated Woodpecker

Northern Flicker

Eastern Wood-Pewee

White-eyed Vireo

Red-eyed Vireo

Blue Jay

American Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch

Blue-gray Gnatcatchers

House Wren

Carolina Wren

European Starling

Gray Catbird*

Brown Thrasher

Northern Mockingbird

Eastern Bluebird

Veery*

American Robin*

House Finch

American Goldfinch

Chipping Sparrow

Red-winged Blackbird

Common Grackle

Northern Waterthrush

Black-and-white Warbler

Common Yellowthroat

American Redstart

Northern Parula

Blackburnian Warbler

Pine Warbler

Prairie Warbler

Summer Tanager

Northern Cardinal

Blue Grosbeak

 

September 1, 2024

 

The year is passing quickly.  Today is September 1, 2024 and migration is beginning.  The weather is warm, in the 80's, skies are cloudy, winds are calm and the air is humid.  18 people still participated in the morning walk. They included John and Marilyn Adair, Hannah Montalvo, Tom Charlock, Stuart Sweetman, Marc Nichols, Helena and Copland Giammaro, Todd Trousdell, Danny Smith, Cindy Schulz, Terry Moore, June Hartzler, Gary Wright, Jane Frigo and Nichole, Chris and Ottomar Kruegar.  Birds were rather scarce with only 49 species identified over the morning, with a Canada Goose not seen until the end of the morning by Dianne Snyder as she was exiting the park!  Ruby-throated Hummingbirds were still around.  There were several sightings of Green Herons including one great view of an individual on the pipeline.  He managed to show himself squatting down and also standing straight up with a stretched out neck.  The Barred Owl couldn't be found but several people got to SEE the Yellow-billed Cuckoo!  Vireo's were well represented with White-eyed and Red-eyed seen and Yellow-throated heard.   Northern Parula Warblers and Blue-gray Gnatcatchers were still around.  Hopefully by the next walk American Redstarts will be seen and the Kinglets will have arrived.  The group again saw one immature Red-headed Woodpecker.  A complete species list follows.

​

The trip report link is: https://ebird.org/tripreport/271723

 

Canada Goose

Mallard

Mourning Dove

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Laughing Gull

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

Green Heron

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Cooper's Hawk

Belted Kingfisher

Red-headed Woodpecker

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker

Pileated Woodpecker

Eastern Wood-Pewee

Great Crested Flycatcher

White-eyed Vireo

Yellow-throated Vireo*

Red-eyed Vireo

Blue Jay 

American Crow

Fish Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch

Blue-gray Gnatcatchers

House Wren

Carolina Wren

Brown Thrasher

Northern  Mockingbird

Eastern Bluebird

American Robin

House Finch

American Goldfinch

Chipping Sparrow

Common Grackle

Common Yellowthroat

Northern Parula

Pine Warbler

Summer Tanager

Northern Cardinal

Blue Grosbeak

 

August 18, 2024

 

Summer is almost over and children will be returning to school.  August 18, 2024 reminded us that summer isn’t gone yet.  The temperature was warm and the humidity high making for a muggy walk.  A large group of birding enthusiasts still turned out to participate in the bird walk.  They included Chris Krueger, Donna Mc Adams, Kate Shaller, Elizabeth Wilkins, Jacques van Montfrans, Stuart Sweetman, Bill Boeh, Dave Youker, John and Marily Adair, Tina White, Marc Nichols, Mickey Simonds, William and Rachel McKellar, Sue Tomlin, Tony Kapu, Beats Whitehead, Tom Charlock, Hannah Montalvo, Melissa Freudenburg and Jane Frigo.  The group identified 53 species.  Two Yellow-billed Cuckoos were calling near the Ranger Parking lot.  Even with so many bird watchers scouring the trees, they could not be located.  The Bald Eagle was also hard to find. It wasn’t until late in the day that an immature was finally spotted.  No adult was seen.  Eastern Wood-Pewees were abundant.  About half of the group was able to seen a juvenile Red-headed Woodpecker.  That species has been absent for months!  Also,  although the Barred Owl was spotted, not everyone in the group got to see it before it flew deeper into the woods. The strangest thing was that not a single Canada Goose was spotted!  Or is that bad?  A complete list follows.

 

Mallard

Mourning Dove

Yellow-billed Cuckoo*

Chimney Swift

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Laughing Gull

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

Green Heron

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Bald Eagle

Red-shouldered Hawk

Red-tailed Hawk

Barred Owl

Belted Kingfisher

Red-headed Woodpecker

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Pileated Woodpecker

Eastern Wood-Pewee

Acadian Flycatcher

Eastern Phoebe

Great Crested Flycatcher*

Eastern Kingbird

White-eyed Vireo

Red-eyed Vireo*

Blue Jay

American Crow

Fish Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

Purple Martin

Tree Swallow

Barn Swallow

White-breasted Nuthatch

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

Carolina Wren

Brown Thrasher

Northern Mockingbird

Eastern Bluebird

American Robin

House Finch

American Goldfinch

Chipping Sparrow

Red-winged Blackbird

Common Grackle

Prothonotary Warbler

Pine Warbler

Summer Tanager

Northern Cardinal

Indigo Bunting*

 

August 4, 2024

 

The “dog days of summer” have arrived. The August 4, 2024 bird walk began with temperatures in the mid 70’s but rising through the 80’s and very humid conditions. At least there was some cloud cover and no showers. Another good sized group assembled. Newcomers Kevin Roback and Mike Whitley joined Charlene Park, Dianne Snyder, Chris and Nichole Krueger, Tina White, Bill Boeh, Cindy Schulz, Mickey Simonds, Pete Peterman, Andrew and Isla McGavin, Tom Charlock, Karthik Krishnamurtny, Stuart Sweetman, Todd Trousdell and Jane Frigo for the morning. The group identified 50 species which was less than last year but still had some interesting sightings. At the beginning of the walk a family of Red-shouldered Hawks was seen playing among the trees across the reservoir. They swooped and soared and looked like they were having a wonderful time. A female Summer Tanager was spotted near the first bridge along with a Belted Kingfisher. The group was able to find the Eastern Kingbird after several absences. Bald Eagle, Osprey and both Vultures were seen. A White-eyed Vireo was found but no Red-eyed Vireo was noted. On the way to the Swamp Bridge, the Barred Owl was almost missed, but finally found and flew through the trees giving a great view of wingspan and silent movement. Then, the Yellow-billed Cuckoo was spotted!!! The most unusual sighting came near the end of the morning. After a break at the Discovery Center to enjoy some trail mix, those remaining made the walk through the meadow and down to the power lines for a last look at the water, There, across the water, a group of Wild Turkeys were spotted! The group numbered 7 and probably was made up of adults and juveniles. It was another great day to celebrate the beautiful outdoors and all its wonders! A complete species list follows.

 

The trip report link is: https://ebird.org/tripreport/264881.

Canada Goose
Mallard
Wild Turkey
Mourning Dove
Yellow-billed Cuckoo
Chimney Swift
Ruby-throated Hummingbird
Laughing Gull
Great Blue Heron
Great Egret
Black Vulture
Turkey Vulture
Osprey
Sharp-shinned Hawk
Bald Eagle
Red-shouldered Hawk
Barred Owl
Belted Kingfisher
Red-bellied Woodpecker*
Downy Woodpecker
Pileated Woodpecker*
Eastern Wood-Pewee
Acadian Flycatcher*
Great Crested Flycatcher*
Eastern Kingbird
White-eyed Vireo
Blue Jay
American Crow
Fish Crow
Carolina aChickadee
Tufted Titmouse
Northern Rough-winged Swallow
Purple Martin
White-breasted Nuthatch
Blue-gray Gnatcatchers
Carolina Wren
Brown Thrasher
Northern Mockingbird
Eastern Bluebird
American Robin
House Finch
American Goldfinch
Chipping Sparrow
Red-winged Blackbird
Common Grackle
Prothonotary Warbler
Common Yellowthroat*
Pine Warbler
Summer Tanager
Northern Cardinal
Indigo Bunting

 

July 21, 2024

 

Summer is passing by so quickly. July 24, 2024 was hot and humid, skies were overcast and winds were nonexistent. A large group still assembled to see what birds could be found and just to enjoy a morning outdoors. They included Charlene Park, Chris and Nichole Kruger, Dianne Snyder, Marc Nichols, Lori and Will Palagyi, Isla and Andrew McGavin, Dan Williams, Mickie Simonds, William and Rachel McKellar, Stuart Sweetman, Cindy Schulz, Hanna Montalvo, Melissa Freudenberg, Beata Whitehead, Marilyn and John Adair, Pete Peterman and Jane Frigo. The group identified 54 species. There were three Barred Owls seen on the way to the Swamp Bridge which was truly remarkable. At least one of the owls appeared to be a juvenile. A Laughing Gull and Royal Tern were seen this walk. Who knows why they were both absent the last walk. American Goldfinches were abundant and very vocal. That may have been because they are late nesters. Eastern Kingbird couldn’t be found again this walk. Hopefully they have not left the area. Gray Catbird, Brown Thrasher and Northern Mockingbird were all found. Near the Swamp Bridge and closer to the golf course two Yellow-billed Cuckoos could be heard but not seen. One thing of note wa Overall it was another great day. A complete species list follows.

 

The trip report link is: https: https://ebird.org/tripreport/262240

Canada Goose
Mallard
Mourning Dove
Yellow-billed Cuckoo*
Ruby-throated Hummingbird
Laughing Gull
Royal Tern
Great Blue Heron
Great Egret
Green Heron
Black Vulture
Turkey Vulture
Osprey
Cooper’s Hawk
Red-shouldered Hawk
Barred Owl
Belted Kingfisher
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Downy Woodpecker*
Hairy Woodpecker*
Pleated 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 Gnatcatchers
Carolina Wren
Gray Catbird
Brown Thrasher
Northern Mockingbird
Eastern Bluebird
American Robin
House Finch
American Goldfinch
Chipping Sparrow
Eastern Towhee*
Red-winged Blackbird
Common Grackle
Prothonotary Warbler
Common Yellowthroat
Northern Parula
Pine Warbler
Summer Tanager
Northern Cardinal
Blue Grosbeak
Indigo Bunting

​

July 7, 2024

​

July 7, 2024 was a steamy day!  Although the temperature remained in the 80’s, the heat index was near 100.  Twelve people attended the walk.  They were Samantha Denney, Bill Boeh, Dianne Snyder, Sue Tomlin, John Adair, Heidi Young, Beth Watson, Clay Wygant, Louise Ford, Jane Frigo and newcomer Mickey Simone’s.  The group was able to identify 50 different species.  The Barred Owl was found and gave the group a great photo opportunity.  The group got to watch him catch a crayfish and eat it!  Another great sighting was of an Acadian Flycatcher.  They are often heard but rather difficult to find in the trees.  Sadly no gulls or terns were seen and the Eastern Kingbird couldn’t be found.  Vireos were singing with White-eyed, Yellow-throated and Red-eyed heard.  Bugs must have been out because Northern Rough-winged Swallows, Tree Swallows, Barn Swallows and Purple Martins were flying.  The group decided to skip the Arboretum and make it a shorter day.  A complete list follows.  Remember,  an * after a species means it was heard only.

 

The trip report link is: https: https://ebird.org/tripreport/258542

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Canada Goose

Mallard

Mourning Dove

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Bald Eagle

Red-shouldered Hawk*

Barred Owl

Belted Kingfisher

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy 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

Purple Martin

Tree Swallow

Barn Swallow

White-breasted Nuthatch*

Blue-gray Gnatcatchers

Carolina Wren

Brown Thrasher

Northern Mockingbird

Eastern Bluebird

American Robin

American Goldfinch

Chipping Sparrow*

Orchard Oriole*

Common Grackle

Prothonotary Warbler

Common Yellowthroat

Northern Parula*

Pine Warbler*

Summer Tanager

Northern Cardia

 

June 16, 2024

 

Today, June 16,  is Father's Day!  A group of 18 decided to spend the morning bird watching.  They included Tina White, Marc Nichols, Dianne Snyder, Chris Kruegar, Todd Trousdell, Tom Charlock, Karthik Krishnamurtny, Sue Tomlin, Melissa Freudenberg, Jane Frigo, John and Marilyn Adair, Danny and Piper Smith, Pete and Charm Peterman and William and Rachel McKellar.  The group identified 54 species by noon.  The weather was pleasant but warm.  Eastern Kingbirds were easily seen along with crows and Great Crested Flycatchers.  No swallows were spotted and the Bald Eagle was not on his perch but was seen later.  Northern Mockingbirds were abundant at the Discovery Center.  The most exciting sighting for many was the Barred Owl.  William and Rachel found him first and alerted the rest of the group.  The owl was most cooperative and sat for a long time. The group finally had to move on.  Both male and female Summer Tanagers were seen.  Both Red-eyed and Yellow-throated Vireos were seen and the hard-to-spot Acadian Flycatcher.  Turtles were everywhere laying eggs and Marc was able to find a worm snake to show the group.  Misses for the morning were Osprey and Black Vulture.  A complete species list follows.

 

Canada Goose

Mallard

Mourning Dove

Ruby-throated  Hummingbird*

Laughing Gull 

Royal Tern

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

Green Heron

Turkey Vulture

Bald Eagle

Red-shouldered Hawk

Red-tailed Hawk

Barred Owl

Belted Kingfisher

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker*

Pileated Woodpecker

Eastern Wood-Pewee

Acadian Flycatcher

Great Crested Flycatcher

Eastern Kingbird

Yellow-throated Vireo

Red-eyed Vireo

Blue Jay 

American Crow

Fish Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch*

Blue-gray Gnatcatchers

Carolina Wren

European Starling

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

 

June 2, 2024

​

June 2, 2024 was a beautiful day for a bird walk.  Skies were clear and the temperature remained in the 70's.  A  large and varied group of people participated in the morning.  They included Master Naturalists completing their required walk, first timers who were curious as to what a bird walk was all about, new Merlin users who wanted to learn about the birds they were hearing and old timers.  The group numbered 25--Ellen Dudley, Natalie Reid, Sue Tomlin, Heidi Young, Dianne Snyder, Danny Smith, Beth Watson, Donna MeAdams, Alex Lalim, Chris Kruger, Bill Boeh, William and Rachel McKellar, John Adair, Tony and Raj Kapu, Mary Jane Hall, Jayme Drew, Stuart Sweetman, Marc Nichols, Karthik Krishnamurtny, Hannah Montalvo,  Beata Whitehead, Tom Charlock and Jane Frigo.  It was amazing to see how the group naturally formed smaller groups with experienced people helping with sound identification and bird location.  It was evident that the app, Merlin, had spurred an interest in learning more about birds.  Since the major push of migration was over, birds remaining were primarily summer residents with 58 species identified.  The group hoped for another owl sighting but that wasn't to be.  The group did have a very cooperative Prothonotary Warbler at the Swamp Bridge.  He was beating a huge grub on the walkway and was totally oblivious of the people.  There was a lively discussion about Scarlet and Summer Tanager identification. Light, leaves and position affected photos.  Vocalization of only Summer Tanager made the group discount a Scarlet Tanager.  Another discussion concerned Raven vs.Crow.  A large crow seemed to be soaring which is only typical of Ravens.  Not enough observations were made, but more attention will be made in the future.  One other note, not a single gull was seen during the morning. A list of birds follows.  Remember an * means heard only.

​

The trip report link is: https://ebird.org/tripreport/243157

 

Canada Goose

Wood Duck

Mallard

Mourning Dove

Chimney Swift

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Royal Tern

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Bald Eagle

Red-tailed Hawk

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

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

Song Sparrow

Red-winged Blackbird

Brown-headed Cowbird*

Common Grackle

Prothonotary Warbler

Common Yellowthroat

Northern Parula*

Pine Warbler*

Yellow-throated Warbler*

Summer Tanager

Northern Cardinal

Blue Grosbeak

Indigo Bunting

 

May 19, 2024

 

The past few days had been rainy but Sunday, May 19 was dry.  Clouds slowly cleared somewhat.  The temperature stayed in the 60’s.    Newcomers Andrew McGavin and Lauren Stroyeck joined the group which included Chris Kruger, Mary Jane Hall, Donna Mc Adams, Stuart Sweetman, Heidi Young, Marc Nichols, Tina White, Beate Whitehead, Tom Charlock, Sue Tomlin, Jane Frigo, William and Rachel McKellar, and Marilyn and John Adair.  The group identified 74 species by noon.  The large number of experienced bird watchers certainly helped.  Most species were seen, but half of the warblers were only heard.  Swainson’s and Gray-cheeked Thrushes were seen with pretty confident identification of field marks.  A confident ID of the Louisiana or Northern Waterthrush could not be made so the decision was to put just “species”.  Mary Jane finally got to see the Barred Owl for the first time at the park!  Tree Swallows gave quite a show and looked more blue that green in the light.  Pewees and Great Crested Flycatchers were abundant.  As the walk was ending, Heidi and Jane saw a Red-shouldered Hawk fly over the Japanese Tea House with prey in his mouth!  All in all  it was a great day spent outside.  A complete species list follows.

​

The trip report link is: https://ebird.org/tripreport/224788

 

Canada Goose

Wood Duck

Mallard

Mourning Dove

Yellow-billed Cuckoo*

Chimney Swift

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Spotted Sandpiper

Laughing Gull

Royal Tern

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

Green Heron

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Cooper’s Hawk

Bald Eagle

Red-shouldered Hawk

Barred Owl

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Pileated Woodpecker

Northern Flicker

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

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

Gray-cheeked Thrush

Swainson’s Thrush

House Finch

American Goldfinch

Chipping Sparrow

Orchard Oriole

Red-winged Blackbird

Brown-headed Cowbird

Common Grackle

Waterthrush species

Prothonotary Warbler

Common Yellowthroat

American Redstart*

Northern Parula*

Yellow Warbler

Blackpoll Warbler

Black-throated Blue Warbler*

Pine Warbler*

Yellow-throated Warbler

Summer Tanager

Northern Cardinal

Blue Grosbeak

Indigo Bunting

 

May 5, 2024

 

Migration was in full swing on May 5, 2024.  Eighteen people met at the park  at 7 o’clock ready to see and hear what had arrived and possibly to learn something about bird watching.  They included newcomers Beth Watson, Jessica Hairston, Philip Sheridan and Raj Kapu.  Returning watchers included Cindy Schulz, Dianne Snyder, Stuart Sweetman, Phyllis Roth, Tina White, Pete Peterman, Sarah Ware, Tom Charlock, Sue Tomlin, Jane Frigo, John and Marilyn Adair and Rachel and William McKellar.  Low hanging clouds made it difficult to make out colors but there was enough light to show the many birds moving around in the canopy.  Sound identification proved to be very important.  With the help of Merlin and the experienced birders the group had a hint as to what to look for.  Over the course of the morning 74 species were identified.  Many identifications were made strictly by sound but many birds did provide opportunities for clear visual identification.  An Osprey was seen flying with a fish in his talons and then pursued by a Bald Eagle who stole his catch.  A pair of Red-tailed Hawks were soaring on the thermals.  Both Summer and Scarlet Tanagers were spotted.  An Eastern Kingbird and Ruby-throated Hummingbird were especially cooperative for the photographers.  The group did decide to walk the entire White Oak Trail for an opportunity to get more birds.  11 warblers were identified.  Cedar Waxwings were in large numbers as were flycatchers and vireos.  Just before reaching the Spawning Pond the Barred Owl was heard hooting but wasn’t found.  Marc Nichols entertained the group by showing a HUGE black snake at the Discovery Center.  A complete species list follows.  *indicates just heard

 

The trip report link is: https://ebird.org/tripreport/224787

​

Canada Goose

Wood Duck

Mallard

Mourning Dove

Yellow billed Cuckoo*

Chimney Swift

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Killdeer*

Laughing Gull

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

Glossy Ibis

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Bald Eagle

Red-tailed Hawk

Barred Owl*

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker

Pileated Woodpecker*

Northern Flicker*

Eastern Wood-Pewee

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

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

American Robin

Cedar Waxwing

American Goldfinch

Chipping Sparrow*

Swamp Sparrow

Orchard Oriole

Red-winged Blackbird

Brown-headed Cowbird

Common Grackle

Ovenbird 

Northern Waterthrush

Black-and-white Warbler

Prothonotary Warbler

Common Yellowthroat

American Redstart

Northern Parula

Blackpoll Warbler

Back-throated Blue Warbler

Pine Warbler

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Yellow-throated Warbler

Summer Tanager

Scarlet Tanager

Northern Cardinal

Blue Grosbeak

Indigo Bunting

 

 

April 21, 2024

 

April showers were the name of the game on April 21, 2024.  They were to hold off until 9 or 10 AM but a light drizzle began almost immediately.  In addition  the temperature remained in the upper 40’s to low 50’s!  In spite of that 13 participants braved the elements and identified 48 species before quitting around 9 or 10 AM and covering only the Ranger Station and the Discovery Center.  They were Tina White, Zachary and Abby Rausch, William and Rachel McKellar, Chris Blackman, Twyla Blume, Bill Boeh, Sue Tomlin, Chris Krueger, Marc Nichols, John Adair and Jane Frigo.  Marc Nichols did continue on to the Swamp bridge and was able to add 10 more species to the total bringing the number for the morning to 58.  Poor lighting and wet opticals made hearing identification all the more important.  The male Wood Duck was spotted among the grasses he and his mate were seen in the last walk.  Hopefully that means they may have a nest nearby. Ducks appeared to be gone with only a lone Pied-billed Grebe seen with the Mallards, Cormorants and geese.  White-throated Sparrows and Yellow-rumpled Warblers were still around. Great-crested Flycatchers, Ovenbird and Yellow-throated Warblers had arrived for the summer.  One other note, not a single Great Blue Heron was seen.  The most interesting sight was all the swallows!  They were zipping past the group, perching on wires just overhead and lining up on the pipeline!  A complete species list follows.

​

The trip report link is: https://ebird.org/tripreport/217687

 

Canada Goose

Wood Duck

Mallard

Pied-billed Grebe

Mourning Dove

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Egret

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Bald Eagle

Red-bellied Woodpecker*

Pileated Woodpecker*

Northern Flicker*

Great Crested Flycatcher*

Blue Jay*

American Crow

Fish Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

Tree Swallow

Barn Swallow

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

White-breasted Nuthatch*

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

House Wren*

Carolina Wren

Brown Thrasher

Northern Mockingbird

Eastern Bluebird

American Robin*

Cedar Waxwing

House Finch*

American Goldfinch*

Chipping Sparrow*

Field Sparrow

White-throated Sparrow

Eastern Towhee

Red-winged Blackbird

Brown-headed Cowbird

Common Grackle

Ovenbird*

Pine Warbler*

Yellow-rumpled Warbler 

Yellow-throated Warbler

Summer Tanager* 

Northern Cardinal

 

Marc Nichols list to Swamp Bridge

Royal Tern

Barred Owl

Yellow-throated Vireo*

Brown-headed Nuthatch*

Winter Wren

Swamp Sparrow

Prothonotary Warbler*

Common Yellowthroat

Scarlet Tanager*

Eastern Phoebe*

 

April 7, 2024

 

April 7, 2024 was a beautiful spring day.  Skies were clear, winds were light and the temperature a refreshing 48 degrees.  Several regular attendants were missing because of the rare total eclipse to take place April 8, 2024.  The cities or states they visited included Ohio, Buffalo, Austin, Indianapolis and San Antonio.  Those in Virginia will be able to see a partial eclipse, weather permitting.  Stuart Sweetman led the Sunday group which included Cindy Schulz, Dianne Snyder, Lauren Forero, Alexander Laila, Heidi Young, Sue Tomlin, Melissa Freudenberg, Chris and Paula Krueger and Ellis and Wendy Maxey.  The group identified 62 species.  Most ducks had left with only Gadwall remaining of the migrants.  All 7 woodpeckers were identified.  Ruby-crowned Kinglets were still seen and Blue-gray Gnatcatchers had made their arrival for the summer.  Interestingly, Swamp Sparrows were heard doing their mating song.  Also, FOS (first of season) Yellow-throated Warblers were identified as well as Palm and Common-yellowthroats.  Dark-eyed Junco, White-throated Sparrow and Yellow-rumpled Warblers were still around but should be leaving soon.  A complete list follows.

​

The trip report link is: https://ebird.org/tripreport/217686

 

Canada Goose

Wood Duck

Gadwall

Mallard

Pied-billed Grebe

Mourning Dove

Laughing Gull

Ring-billed Gull

Royal Tern

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Cooper’s Hawk

Bald Eagle

Belted Kingfisher

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

Red-headed Woodpecker*

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker*

Pleated Woodpecker

Northern Flicker

Eastern Phoebe

Blue Jay

American Crow

Fish Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

Purple Martin

Tree Swallow

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

White-breasted Nuthatch*

Brown-headed Nuthatch*

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

Carolina Wren

European Starling

Brown Thrasher

Northern Mockingbird

Eastern Bluebird

Hermit Thrush

American Robin

Cedar Waxwing

American Goldfinch

Chipping Sparrow

Field Sparrow

Dark-eyed Junco

White-throated Sparrow

Song Sparrow

Swamp Sparrow

Eastern Towhee

Red-winged Blackbird

Brown-headed Cowbird

Common Grackle

Common Yellowthroat*

Palm Warbler

Pine Warbler

Yellow-rumpled Warbler

Yellow-throated Warbler

Northern Cardinal

​

March 17, 2024

​

It was St. Patrick’s Day, March 17, 2024, and spring was in the air!  Weather conditions were great for looking for birds.  Skies were clear and the temperature in the 60’s.  A VERY large group turned out for the walk and were able to identify 62 species by noon.  Those participating were Pete Peterman, Cindy Schulz, Dave Youker, Marc Nichols, Melissa Freudenberg, Mary Jane Hall, Heidi Young, Eva Greene, Stuart Sweetman, Gary Wright, June Hartzler, Chris Krueger, Bill Boeh, Dianne Snyder, Todd Trousdell, Kate Shaller, Donna McAdams, Cathy Bond, Sarah Ware, Jayme Musen, Hannah Montalvo, Tom Charlock, Marilyn and John Adair, Beata Whitehead and grandson Gavin,  Jane Frigo and first timers Lisa Pyle and Tina White.  Ducks were beginning to move out but a few Ring-necked, Hoodies and a Ruddy Duck were found.  A beautiful pair of Wood Ducks were seen.  Laughing Gull in breeding plumage were spotted.  Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers and both Kinglet species were still around.   Blue-gray Gnatcatchers had been reported but none could be located during the morning. The group did locate an active White-breasted Nuthatch cavity.  A Hermit Thrush singing his spring song was heard.  It provided a wonderful teaching moment by letting the group listen to that seldom heard song and compare it to that of the summer breeding Wood Thrush.  Other interesting observations included a coiled Cottonmouth and slithering Black Rat Snake.  A complete species list follows.

​

The trip report link is: https://ebird.org/tripreport/207922

 

Canada Goose

Wood Duck

Mallard

Ring-necked Duck

Hooded Merganser

Ruddy Duck

Rock Pigeon

Mourning Dove

Virginia Rail*

Laughing Gull

Ring-billed Gull

Royal Tern

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Bald Eagle

Belted Kingfisher

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker

Pleated Woodpecker

Northern Flicker

Eastern Phoebe

Blue Jay

American Crow

Fish Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

Northern-Rough-winged Swallow

Tree Swallow

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

Golden-crowned Kinglet

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch

Brown Creeper

Winter Wren

Carolina Wren

Gray Catbird

Brown Thrasher

Northern Mockingbird

Eastern Bluebird

Hermit Thrush

American Robin

Cedar Waxwing

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*

Pine Warbler*

Yellow-rumpled Warbler

Northern Cardinal 

​

March 2, 2024

​

Because of the scheduled ALL CITY MARATHON, the first walk in March, 2024 was held on Saturday, March 2, instead of Sunday, March 3.  Rain blanketed the area but 4 people still showed up to bird from the shelters and hope for a break in the weather.  Marc Nichols, Tom Charlock, Cindy Schulz and Jane Frigo birded until 10 AM before calling it a day.  In the hour and a half spent in the Ranger parking lot they were able to identify  31 species.  The last hour and a half was spent at the Discovery Center and Spawning Pond where an additional 12 species were added.  Gadwall were again the dominate waterfowl species seen.  Tree Swallows skimmed over the water.  The resident Bald Eagle could be seen occupying his favorite tree.  Double-crested Cormorants lined the pipe.  Kinglets were easy to see and the sound of Red-winged Blackbirds filled the air.  Inspite of the weather it was a good morning.  By the next walk some Spring migrants and early summer residents should be arriving.  A complete species list follows.

​

The trip report link is: https://ebird.org/tripreport/207921

​

Canada Goose

Gadwall

Mallard

American Black Duck

Ring-necked Duck

Hooded Merganser

Mourning Dove

Ring-billed Gull

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

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 a Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

Tree Swallow

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

Golden-crowned Kinglet

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch

Brown Creeper

Carolina Wren

Brown Thrasher

Northern Mockingbird

Eastern Bluebird

American Robin 

American Goldfinch 

White-throated Sparrow

Song Sparrow

Swamp Sparrow

Red-winged Blackbird

Pine Warbler

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Northern Cardinal

​

February 18, 2024

​

The day was cold (28 degrees) but clear and calm.  Not bad for birding if one is dressed for the weather and happens to have some hand warmers!  Those participating were Samantha Denney, Marc Nichols, Heidi Young, Stuart Sweetman, Todd Trousdell, John Adair, Donna McAdams, Sarah Ware, Tom Charlock, Jane Frigo and first timer Eva Greene.  Waterfowl were not as diverse as last walk but still included Canada Goose, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, Mallard, American Black Duck, Ring-necked Duck, Bufflehead, Hooded Merganser and Pied-billed Grebe.  Tree Swallows skimmed the water surface as the group searched for an American Wigeon with not luck.  Kinglets were busy and American Robins were abundant.  The Virginia Rail was heard again at the Swamp Bridge, but as expected, refused to show himself.  Bald Eagles, Red-tailed Hawks and Vultures were beautiful soaring in the clear skies.  Another special sighting was that of a pair of Rusty Blackbirds.  A complete species list follows.  *a special note…the first walk for March is canceled because of the All City Marathon to be held on that date.  Anyone interested in a bird walk that weekend can meet at the Ranger Station at 7 AM on SATURDAY, March 2, 2024. 

​​

The trip report link is: https://ebird.org/tripreport/197221

 

Canada Goose

Northern Shoveler

Gadwall

Mallard

American Black Duck

Ring-necked Duck

Bufflehead

Hooded Merganser

Pied-billed Grebe

Virginia Rail*

Ring-billed Gull

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Bald Eagle

Red-tailed Hawk

Belted Kingfisher

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Pileated Woodpecker

Blue Jay 

American Crow

Fish Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

Golden-crowned Kinglet

Tree Swallows

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed 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

Red-winged Blackbird

Rusty Blackbird

Common Grackle

Yellow-rumpled Warbler

Northern Cardinal 

 

February 4, 2024

​

Although February 4th was cold, 29 degrees, it was not nearly as miserable as the last walk.  Temperatures warmed over the morning to the 50’s and it was beautiful!  Thirteen people came to enjoy the morning.  They were Terry and Cathy Bond, Bill Boeh, Cindy Schulz, Stuart Sweetman, Pete Peterman, Chris Krueger, Sandy Graham, Mary Jane Hall, Todd Trousdell, Susan Maples, Marc Nichols and Jane Frigo.  The group identified 55 species.  Waterfowl were well represented with 12 species seen including multiple Northern Shovelers, American Wigeon, Ring-necked Ducks and Hooded Mergansers. Small numbers of Pied-billed Grebe, Ruddy Duck and Bufflehead were spotted.  Two Virginia Rails were heard at the Swamp Bridge.  Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers seemed to be everywhere.  Some great looks were enjoyed of Red-tailed Hawks and a Cooper’s Hawk.  The most abundant species had to be American Robins.  Hard to believe several walks ago not a single robin could be found!  Sadly , the Barred Owl was not seen.  A special note—because of the ALL CITY MARATHON, there will not be a bird walk on the first Sunday of March.  Instead, anyone interested can come on Saturday, March 2.  A complete species list follows.

​

The trip report link is: https://ebird.org/tripreport/197220

 

Canada Goose

Wood Duck*

Northern Shoveler

Gadwall

American Wigeon

Mallard

American Black Duck

Ring-necked Duck

Bufflehead

Hooded Merganser

Ruddy Duck

Pied-billed Grebe

Virginia Rail*

Ring-billed Gull

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron 

Great Egret

Turkey Vulture

Cooper’s Hawk

Bald Eagle

Red-tailed Hawk

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*

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*

Red-winged Blackbird

Common Grackle

Pine Warbler*

Yellow-rumpled Warbler

Northern Cardinal

 

January 21, 2024

 

The day was COLD, COLD, COLD!!!  The coldest day of the season brought a morning temperature of 19 degrees and only warmed up to just over freezing.  14 crazy people braved the elements to see what  had moved in.  Those participating were Marc Nichols, Chris Krueger, Donna McAdams, Mary Jane  Hall, Stuart Sweetman, Jayme Musen, Melissa Freudenberg, Sue Tomlin, Cindy Schulz, Jane Frigo, Mike and Jen Hendrix and Marilyn and John Adair.  Pine Siskins started the morning out and was followed by a number of ducks on the reservoir.  An American Black Duck was seen in addition to Hooded Mergansers, Ring-necked Ducks, Mallards, Bufflehead and even a Redhead Duck!  The shore line was frozen along with the small inlet by the first bridge.  Canada Geese made a comical sight when they tried to land and encountered a frozen surface, skidding to a stop with a puzzled look.  A Belted Kingfisher was spotted at the Spawning Pond tenderizing a fish.  He repeatedly beat the fish on a branch for several minutes. Was he defrosting it or tenderizing it?  One thing was for sure, he wasn’t giving up!  The group persisted through the morning with only a few people giving in to the cold and calling it quits.  48 species were identified and everyone looked forward to getting home and getting warmed up.  A complete species list follows.

​

The link to the Trip Report is: https://ebird.org/tripreport/173206

 

Canada Goose

Gadwall

American Wigeon

Mallard

American Black Duck

Redhead

Ring-necked Duck

Bufflehead

Hooded Merganser

Mourning Dove

Ring-billed Gull

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

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

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

White-breasted Nuthatch

Carolina Wren

Brown Thrasher

Northern Mockingbird

Eastern Bluebird

Hermit Thrush

American Robin

Pine Siskin

American Goldfinch*

Field Sparrow

Dark-eyed Junco

White-throated Sparrow

Song Sparrow

Swamp Sparrow

Eastern Towhee

Red-winged Blackbird

Brown-headed Cowbird

Yellow-rumpled Warbler

Northern Cardinal

 

January 7, 2024

 

The New Year has arrived! The first bird walk of 2024 began with overcast skies and moderate temperatures. At 7 AM it was still dark with sunrise not scheduled until 7:20 AM.  Birders trickled in and by sunrise a good group had assembled.  By 8 AM the number reached 17!  They included Chris Krueger, Donna McAdams, Debra Swinford, Dianne Snyder, Shawn Dash, Pete Peterman, Stuart Sweetman, Marc Nichols, Cindy Schulz, Sarah Ware, Lauren Forero, Tom Charlock, Hannah Montalvo, Jane Frigo, John and Marilyn Adair and newcomer Jayme Musen.  The group identified 61 species by afternoon when skies had cleared.  The morning began with a flock of Pine Siskins and Cedar Waxwings high in the trees and very difficult to see but easier to hear.  7 duck species were seen and 2 additional species heard  The best ducks seen were lone American Wigeon, Northern Shoveler and Lesser Scaup.  The Virginia Rail was heard again at the Swamp Bridge and made a brief run through the reeds. Always exciting to see, the Barred Owl was located!  A complete species list follows.  

​

The trip report is available through the following link: https://ebird.org/tripreport/173205

 

Canada Goose

Wood Duck*

Northern Shoveler

Gadwall

American Wigeon

Mallard

American Black Duck*

Ring-necked duck

Lesser Scaup

Hooded Merganser

Pied-billed Grebe

Mourning Dove

Virginia Rail

Ringed-billed Gull

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Bald Eagle

Red-tailed Hawk

Coopers hawk

Barred Owl

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

Cedar Waxwings

Pine Siskin

American Goldfinch

Chipping Sparrow

Dark-eyed Junco

White-throated Sparrow

Song Sparrow

Swamp Sparrow

Eastern Towhee*

Red-winged Blackbird

Common Yellowthroat

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Northern Cardinal

​

​​