Sunday Walks | hamptonroadsbirdclub

Sunday Morning Bird Walks

Newport News City Park

Click HERE to review Covid 19 walk safety requirements before attending

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).

2020 Bird Walks Summary

November 18, 2020

The November park walk began under cloudy skies with rain beginning by noon. Those participating were Pete and Charm Peterman, Trisha Bobbit, Heidi Young, Lisa Billo, Cindy Shulz, Sue Tomlin, Marc Nichols, Stuart Sweetman, Jane Frigo and Sandy Di Carlo. It was great to see Sandy again since her move to Charlottesville several years ago. Those present loosely formed two to groups and were able to identify 52 species before the rain arrived. The group stayed dry thanks to Cindy's minute by minute weather ap. The road is now blocked at the Discovery Center because of the Celebration in Lights so the group had to walk the remainder of the way, making it to Swamp Point before returning to beat the rain. First of season arrivals included Hermit Thrush, Dark-eyed Junco and several ducks. Several Rusty Blackbirds were spotted among a group of Common Grackles at the Arboretum. An exciting find was a Marsh Wren by the fist overlook. All were able to see and hear him. A species list follows.

Canada Goose

Wood Duck

Gadwall

American Black Duck

Mallard

Ring-necked Duck

Hooded Merganser

Pied-billed Grebe

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Turkey Vulture

Bald Eagle

Red-tailed Hawk

Laughing Gull

Ring-billed Gull

Mourning Dove

Belted Kingfisher

Red-headed Woodpecker

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

Downy Woodpecker

Northern Flicker

Pileated Woodpecker

Blue Jay

American Crow

Tree Swallow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

Red-breasted Nuthatch

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch

Carolina Wren

Marsh Wren

Golden-crowned Kinglet

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

Eastern Bluebird

Hermit Thrush

American Robin

Northern Mockingbird

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Eastern Towhee

Chipping Sparrow

Song Sparrow

Swamp Sparrow

White-throated Sparrow

Dark-eyed Junco

Northern Cardinal

Red-winged Blackbird

Rusty Blackbird

Common Grackle

House Finch

American Goldfinch

October 18, 2020

The second park walk of the month took place on October 18, 2020. The weather was clear and cool with just a light breeze Stuart Sweetman, Marc Nichols, Hannah Montalvo, Cindy Shulz, Sue Tomlin, Jane Frigo and newcomers Jackie Frankeweicz and Emily Struck participated. The group identified 52 species. The morning began with a Great Horned Owl hooting from the campground. Both Kinglets had arrived along with White-throated Sparrows, Swamp Sparrows and Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers. Pine Siskins had been reported in the area and were found at the park too. The road remained open to the Spawning Pond but Christmas lights were being put up so by the next walk the road past the Discovery Center will most likely be closed. A species list follows.

Canada Goose

Mallard

Pied-billed Grebe

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Bald Eagle

Red-tailed Hawk

Laughing Gull

Mourning Dove

Great Horned Owl

Belted Kingfisher

Red-headed Woodpecker

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker

Northern Flicker

Pileated Woodpecker

Eastern Phoebe

Blue Jay

American Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

Red-breasted Nuthatch

White-breasted Nuthatch

Carolina Wren

House Wren

Golden-crowned Kinglet

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

Eastern Bluebird

American Robin

Gray Catbird

Northern Mockingbird

Brown Thrasher

Common Yellowthroat

Northern Parula

Pine Warbler

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Eastern Towhee

Chipping Sparrow

Song Sparrow

SwampSparrow

White-throated Sparrow

Northern Cardinal

Red-winged Blackbird

Common Grackle

House Finch

Pine Siskin

American Goldfinch

October 4, 2020

Fall has officially arrived. October 4, 2020 was pleasant with temperatures staying in the 60's. A hint of fall color could be seen in the trees with a promise of more to come. Cindy Shulz, Marc Nichols, Bill Boeh, Dave Youker, SueTomlin, Hannah Montalvo, Jason Strickland and Jane Frigo participated. 44 species were identified. The morning began with a very friendly American Crow that followed the group around and actually tried to remove earrings from Cindy and Jane! He had obviously been hand fed and was very comfortable around people. Although entertaining for the group, all agreed he would be better off with his own family. The other thrill of the day was an unexpected Common Raven, These birds do not visit the Tidewater area but remain further west and up in the mountains. His distinct caw was identified by the more experienced birders in the group and the American Crows put up quite a fuss! The group also was excited to see a first year male Rose-breasted Grosbeak at the Arboretum and a Red-breasted Nuthatch. FOS Yellow-rumped Warblers were seen. Northern Flickers were migrating through with multiple sightings made. In an effort to find a Field Sparrow, the group agreed to travel to the campground area and not venture to the Swamp Bridge. Sadly no sparrow could be found but the change was still enjoyable. A complete species list follows.

Canada Goose

Mallard

Pied-billed Grebe

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Bald Eagle

Red-tailed Hawk

Laughing Gull

Ring-billed Gull

Mourning Dove

Belted Kingfisher

Red-headed Woodpecker

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Northern Flicker

Pileated Woodpecker

Eastern Phoebe

Red-eyed Vireo

Blue Jay

American Crow

Common Raven

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

Red-breasted Nuthatch

White-breasted Nuthatch

Carolina Wren

House Wren

Eastern Bluebird

American Robin

Gray Catbird

Northern Mockingbird

Brown Thrasher

Common Yellowthroat

Northern Parula

Pine Warbler

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Chipping Sparrow

Northern Cardinal

Rose-breasted Nuthatch

House Finch

American Goldfinch

September 20, 2020

September 20, 2020 was cool and breezy. A promise of fall was in the air. Cindy Shulz, Stuart Sweetman, Marc Nichols, Mike Lowry, Dianne Snyder, Paula Markum, Marilyn Adair and Jane Frigo participated in the morning walk. They were able to identify 47 species Raptors were well represented with Bald Eagle, Sharp-shinned, Red-shouldered and Red-tailed Hawks seen. A Ruby-throated Hummingbird and Eastern Wood-Pewee were also seen. Interesting warblers included Black-and-white, Common Yellowthroat, American Redstart and Northern Parula. A very exciting sighting was a Kentucky Warbler at the Arboretum. A Veery was heard! Migration certainly has begun. A total of 47 species were heard or seen. A complete list follows.

Canada Goose

Mallard

Pied-billed Grebe

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Bald Eagle

Sharp-shinned Hawk

Red-shouldered Hawk

Red-tailed Hawk

Laughing Gull

Mourning Dove

Chimney Swift

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Belted Kingfisher

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Northern Flicker

Pileated Woodpecker

Eastern Wood-Pewee

Red-eyed Vireo

Blue Jay

American Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch

Carolina Wren

House Wren

Eastern Bluebird

Veery

American Robin

Gray Catbird

Northern Mockingbird

Brown Thrasher

Black-and-white Warbler

Kentucky Warbler

Common Yellowthroat

American Redstart

Northern Parula

Pine Warbler

Summer Tanager

Northern Cardinal

House Finch

American Goldfinch

September 6, 2020

Fall is in the air! September 6, 2020 began with refreshing temperatures in the 70's and calm winds. Those spending at least some part of the morning enjoying the birds and the outdoors included Cindy Shulz, Mike Lowry, Sue Tomlin, Marc Nichols, Jane Frigo, Elizabeth Wilkins, Jacque van Montfranz, Pete and Charm Peterman, and Marilyn and John Adair. Because all participants were Hampton Roads Club members they were aware of the walk restrictions. Two smaller groups formed and social distancing was observed. People shifted between groups to catch up on activities from the past 6 months. Everyone agreed that it was wonderful to be able to get out to the park again. Only 37 species were identified so there were several misses. Summer residents still observed included Summer Tanager, Blue Grosbeak, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher and Ruby-throated Hummingbird. A complete list follows.

Mallard

Pied-billed Grebe

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Laughing Gull

Herring Gull

Mourning Dove

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Belted Kingfisher

Red-headed Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Northern Flicker

Pileated Woodpecker

Eastern Phoebe

Great Crested Flycatcher

Blue Jay

American Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

White-breasted Nuthatch

Carolina Wren

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

Eastern Bluebird

American Robin

Brown Thrasher

Pine Warbler

Chipping Sparrow

Summer Tanager

Northern Cardinal

Blue Grosbeak

Common Grackle

House Finch

American Goldfinch

August 16, 2020

The day was another humid and cloudy day but at least there was no rain and temperatures in the 80's not 90's. Heavy storms moved through the day before and brought flooding to many areas. The reservoir was very high and some overlooks were actually covered with water. The new rules in place for the walks were reviewed: masks, social distancing, no carpooling, no snacks and no sharing of equipment (which meant no passing out binoculars to those who needed them, group size limited to 8). Stuart Sweetman, Lindsey Knox and Jane Frigo still enjoyed the morning identifying 38 bird species and 1 ring necked snake! There was a spirited discussion about a distant bird at the Swamp Bridged. By far the most exciting find was the Great Horned Owl back at the Arboretum in his favorite spot. Not only did he give us a great look, he also vocalized several times!!!! A complete species list follows.

Canada Goose

Mallard

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Red-shouldered Hawk

Red-tailed Hawk

Laughing Gull

Mourning Dove

Great Horned Owl

Chimney Swift

Belted Kingfisher

Red-headed Woodpecker

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Eastern Wood Pewee

Eastern Phoebe

Great Crested Flycatcher

Blue Jay

American Crow

Purple Martin

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch

Carolina Wren

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

Eastern Bluebird

American Robin

Brown Thrasher

European Starling

Pine Warbler

Chipping Sparrow

Northern Cardinal

Common Grackle

House Finch

American Goldfinch

August 2, 2020

The day was another very hot and humid day with no wind to ease the misery. Park walks are officially open again, but some restrictions are now being imposed by the Hampton Roads Bird Club. To help provide protection from the covid pandemic, the group size will be limited to 8 participants. Face masks and social distancing must be observed. There will be no car pooling allowed. Sharing of snacks, optics and books is also prohibited. Only Stuart Sweetman, Marc Nichols and Jane Frigo participated in the morning walk and they were able to identify 48 species. There were 7 Royal Terns counted on the pipeline and fishing in the reservoir. Wood Ducks were seen but again Canada Geese were not. N.Rough-winged Swallows were soaring along with Purple Martins. Cedar Waxwings were also seen! The Acadian Flycatcher remains near Swamp Point. The very end of the walk yielded a beautiful Cooper's Hawk sighting! A species list follows.

Wood Duck

Mallard

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Cooper's Hawk

Laughing Gull

Royal Tern

Mourning Dove

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

Belted Kingfisher

Red-headed Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Pileated Woodpecker

Eastern Wood-Pewee

Acadian Flycatcher

Great Crested Flycatcher

Eastern Kingbird

White-eyed Vireo

Red-eyed Vireo

Blue Jay

American Crow

Fish Crow

Purple Martin

N. Rough-winged Swallow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch

Carolina Wren

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

Eastern Bluebird

American Robin

Brown Thrasher

European Starling

Cedar Waxwing

Common Yellowthroat

Pine Warbler

Chipping Sparrow

Northern Cardinal

Blue Grosbeak

Indigo Bunting

Red-winged Blackbird

Common Grackle

House Finch

American Goldfinch

July 19, 2020

The park called and gave the go ahead to begin walks if we wanted, but bathroom facilities were still closed. Stuart Sweetman, Marc Nichols, Cindy Shulz and Jane Frigo met on Sunday, July 19, 2020, and braved the heat and humidity to get a list of birds for the day. John and Marilyn Adair crossed paths with the group and were able to make some contributions. At the first bridge an Eastern Bluebird was spotted feeding a nestling in a cavity nest. A juvenile Red-headed Woodpecker was seen, too! A Spotted Sandpiper skirted the shore. The Acadian Flycatcher was still at Swamp Point near the nest that was spotted previously. Both Hairy and Downy Woodpeckers were spotted. Being able to compare them is always a treat. Green Herons continue to be hard to find. 49 species were recorded. A complete list follows.

Wood Duck

Mallard

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Spotted Sandpiper

Laughing Gull

Royal Tern

Mourning Dove

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Belted Kingfisher

Red-headed Woodpecker

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker

Eastern Wood-Pewee

Acadian Flycatcher

Great Crested Flycatcher

Eastern Kingbird

Red-eyed Vireo

Blue Jay

American Crow

Fish Crow

Purple Martin

Barn Swallow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

White-breasted Nuthatch

Carolina Wren

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

Eastern Bluebird

Wood Thrush

American Robin

Northern Mockingbird

Brown Thrasher

Common Yellowthroat

Chipping Sparrow

Summer Tanager

Northern Cardinal

Indigo Bunting

Red-winged Blackbird

Common Grackle

Orchard Oriole

House Finch

American Goldfinch

July 5, 2020

We have reached the middle of summer and still the country is dealing with the COVID 19 pandemic. Virginia is slowly opening up but group functions are still canceled and bathrooms are still closed at the park. Although inconvenient, the policies in place are to protect the health of the public. Individual birding is allowed and several club members have ventured out and provided information about birds seen or heard on July 5, 2020. Those contributing were Mike Lowry, Dianne Synder, Stuart Sweetman, Jane Frigo and Marilyn and John Adair. This must be the time turtles lay their eggs because at least 6 turtles were spotted digging near the Discovery Center. The sad thing was a murder of crows was also seen there. As the turtles scurried back to the water, the crows were seen swooping in to uncover the nests and feast on turtle eggs. 54 species of birds were identified over the morning. A list follows.

Canada Goose

Wood Duck

Mallard

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Laughing Gull

Royal Tern

Mourning Dove

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

Belted Kingfisher

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker

Northern Flicker

Pileated Woodpecker

Eastern Wood-Pewee

Acadian Flycatcher

Great Crested Flycatcher

Eastern Kingbird

Red-eyed Vireo

Blue Jay

American Crow

Fish Crow

Purple Martin

N. Rough-winged Swallow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch

Carolina Wren

House Wren

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

Eastern Bluebird

American Robin

Northern Mockingbird

Brown Thrasher

Common Yellowthroat

Northern Parula

Pine Warbler

Yellow-throated Warbler

Chipping Sparrow

Summer Tanager

Northern Cardinal

Blue Grosbeak

Indigo Bunting

Red-winged Blackbird

Common Grackle

Brown-headed Cowbird

House Finch

American Goldfinch

June 21, 2020

Covid 19 restrictions are still in place so guided bird walks remain suspended. In an effort to continue a survey of the park Jane Frigo, Stuart Sweetman, Marc Nichols, Wendy and Ellis Maxey did meet and walk. It was Father's Day and the weather was clear and calm and humid. 50 species were identified. A pair of Red-headed Woodpeckers were seen along with a beautiful Eastern Kingbird and Belted Kingfisher. The Acadian Flycatcher was still on the nest located during the last walk just past the Swamp Point turn off. Wood Thrushes were heard!! Non avian spotting's included a box turtle and feisty crayfish. Several misses for the morning were owls, geese, Green Heron, hawks and Orchard Oriole. A species list follows.

Mallard

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Laughing Gull

Mourning Dove

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Belted Kingfisher

Red-headed Woodpecker

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Northern Flicker

Pileated Woodpecker

Eastern Wood-Pewee

Acadian Flycatcher

Great Crested Flycatcher

Eastern Kingbird

Yellow-throated Vireo

Red-eyed Vireo

Blue Jay

American Crow

Fish Crow

Barn Swallow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch

Carolina Wren

House Wren

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

Eastern Bluebird

Wood Thrush

American Robin

Northern Mockingbird

Brown Thrasher

Prothonotary Warbler

Common Yellowthroat

Northern Parula

Pine Warbler

Yellow-throated Warbler

Chipping Sparrow

Summer Tanager

Northern Cardinal

Indigo Bunting

Red-winged Blackbird

Common Grackle

Brown-headed Cowbird

House Finch

American Goldfinch

June 7, 2020

The state moved into Level 2 restrictions covering the Covid19 virus which allowed groups of 50 to gather, wearing masks and observing social distancing, Hopes were raised that the park walks could resume but that was not the case. Guided tours were restricted to groups of 10 which included the guide and health questionnaires would need to be completed. Also restrooms at the park were still closed. SO, regular walks continue to be canceled. The day was beautiful and a few people headed out to bird watch independently. Those who ran into each other were Marc Nichols, Stuart Sweetman, Marilyn Adair, Jane Frigo, Wendy and Ellis Maxey. Another couple out to look for birds were Tracey and John Crawley. 54 species were identified. Red-headed Woodpeckers could not be found. Common Yellow-throats were VERY vocal as were Eastern Wood-Pewee. A quick run to the Swamp Bridge to look for a Barred Owl was not fruitful but a nice look at a White-eyed Vireo made the walk worthwhile. In addition, when passing Swamp Point on the way back a nesting Blue-gray Gnatcher was spotted. Before leaving the park, Stuart and Jane decided to take a quick look at the Arboretum. Stuart's eagle-eyes spotted the Great Horned Owl resting in his favorite pine tree! The owl hasn't been spotted in months. A list of the species recorded follows.

Wood Duck

Mallard

Pied-billed Grebe

Great Blue Heron

Green Heron

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Cooper's Hawk

Red-tailed Hawk

Laughing Gull

Great Horned Owl

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Belted Kingfisher

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Northern Flicker

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

N. Rough-winged Swallow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

White-breasted Nuthatch

Carolina Wren

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

Eastern Bluebird

American Robin

Northern Mockingbird

Brown Thrasher

European Starling

Prothonotary Warbler

Common Yellowthroat

Northern Parula

Pine Warbler

Yellow-throated Warbler

Chipping Sparrow

Summer Tanager

Northern Cardinal

Blue Grosbeak
Indigo Bunting

Red-winged Blackbird

Common Grackle

Brown-headed Cowbird

Orchard Oriole

House Finch

American Goldfinch

May 17, 2020

The "Stay at Home" order limiting group gatherings is still in effect so park walks are officially canceled. People are allowed to get outside individually, maintaining social distancing on trails. Jane Frigo went to the park and was joined by Marc Nichols and later Hannah Montalvo. The three of them were able to identify 48 species. New arrivals included Indigo Bunting and Blue Grosbeak and Acadian Flycatcher. A list of species follows.

Canada Goose

Wood Duck

Mallard

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Laughing Gull

Mourning Dove

Chimney Swift

Red-headed Woodpecker

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Northern Flicker

Pileated Woodpecker

Eastern Wood-Pewee

Acadian Flycatcher

Great Crested Flycatcher

Red-eyed Vireo

Blue Jay

American Crow

Fish Crow

Tree Swallow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch

Carolina Wren

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

Eastern Bluebird

American Robin

Prothonotary Warbler

Common Yellowthroat

Northern Parula

Blackpoll Warbler

Black-throated Blue Warbler

Pine Warbler

Yellow-throated Warbler

Chipping Sparrow

Summer Tanager

Northern Cardinal

Blue Grosbeak

Indigo Bunting

Red-winged Blackbird

Common Grackle

Brown-headed Cowbird

American Goldfinch

May 3, 2020

May 3, 2020 and the "stay at home" order, which prohibits group gatherings, is still in affect forcing a cancellation of the Sunday bird walks. Although restrooms and playgrounds are closed, the park trails are still open with social distancing and masks required. The morning was perfect for a walk. Jane Frigo hit the trails and met Marc Nichols and Hannah Montalvo out at the park with the same idea. Since this is the prime time for birds in migration, they decided to keep a list of what they saw and heard. They didn't make 70 but were able to identify 66 species. They all agreed they had probably missed a few species but were proud of what the three of them could find. A list of birds follows.

Canada Goose

Wood Duck

Mallard

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

Green Heron

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Bald Eagle

Red-tailed Hawk

Laughing Gull

Royal Tern

Mourning Dove

Red-headed Woodpecker

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker

Pileated Woodpecker

Eastern Wood-Pewee

Great Crested Flycatcher

White-eyed Vireo

Red-eyed Vireo

Blue Jay

American Crow

Fish Crow

Purple Martin

Tree Swallow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch

Carolina Wren

House Wren

Blue-gray Gnatcacher

Eastern Bluebird

American Robin

Gray Catbird

Northern Mockingbird

Brown Thrasher

Cedar Waxwing

Ovenbird

Worm-eating Warbler

Black-and-white Warbler

Prothonotary Warbler

Common Yellowthroat

American Redstart

Northern Parula

Yellow Warbler

Blackpoll Warbler

Black-throated Blue Warbler

Pine Warbler

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Yellow-throated Warbler

Chipping Sparrow

SwampvSparrow

White-throated Sparrow

Summer Tanager

Northern Cardinal

Red-winged Blackbird

Common Grackle

Brown-headed Cowbird

Orchard Oriole

House Finch

American Goldfinch]

April 17, 2020

Newport News Park Walks continue to be canceled because of the "stay at home" order; however, outdoor walks are encouraged provided social distancing and masks are used. With that in mind, Jane Frigo and Marilyn Adair ventured out to explore the trails. The day was beautiful and the exercised badly needed! While out they took note of the birds they saw and heard. They were able to identify 46 species. The number would surely be greater if the walk were not canceled. A list of what they recorded follows.

Canada Goose

Wood Duck

Mallard

Pied-billed Grebe

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Great Egret

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Osprey

Virginia Rail

Ring-billed Gull

Mourning Dove

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker

Eastern Phoebe

Great Crested Flycatcher

Eastern Kingbird

Blue Jay

American Crow

Fish Crow

N. Rough-winged Swallow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch

Carolina Wren

Blue-cray Gnatcatcher

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

Eastern Bluebird

Hermit Thrush

American Robin

Prothonotary Warbler

Common Yellowthroat

Northern Parula

Palm Warbler

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Chipping Sparrow

White-throated Sparrow

Northern Cardinal

Red-winged Blackbird

Common Grackle

Brown-headed Cowbird

House Wren

American Goldfinch

March 15, 2020

The world is dealing with a pandemic called the Corona Virus causing schools and many businesses to shut down and "social distancing" encouraged to cut down on any spread of the virus. What better way to find relief than a bird walk in the great Newport News City Park! Ten people participated in the March 15, 2020 walk, being sure to maintain a three foot separation. They included regulars John and Marilyn Adair, Stuart Sweetman, Cindy Shulz, Marc Nichols, Mike Lowry , Cathy Bond, Jane Frigo and newcomers Hilary Propst and Gayle Phillips. The weather was chilly (50 degree) and slowly dropped into the 40's. Winds were strong with white caps on the water and cloudy skies. 57 species were seen. All the woodpeckers were observed with several Pileated and Flickers out. There was a good look at a Hairy Woodpecker and a Brown Creeper. Ducks were scarce but a lone Wigeon and a Wood Duck flyover helped boost numbers. Also, a possible Marsh Wren was heard at the Swamp Bridge. Time to review sounds! All the cherry blossom's seen on the last walk were gone. Almost missed the Northern Mockingbird but Stuart Sweetman spotted one on the way out of the park. A complete species list follows.

Canada Goose

Wood Duck

Gadwall

American Wigeon

Mallard

Ring-necked Duck

Hooded Merganser

Pied-billed Grebe

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Bald Eagle

Sharp-shinned Hawk

Red-shouldered Hawk

Red-tailed Hawk

Ring-billed Gull

Mourning Dove

Belted Kingfisher

Red-headed Woodpecker

Red-billed Woodpecker

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker

Northern Flicker

Pileated Woodpecker

Blue Jay

American Crow

Fish Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch

Brown Creeper

Carolina Wren

Winter Wren

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

Eastern Bluebird

Hermit Thrush

American Robin

Northern Mockingbird

Brown Thrasher

European Starling

Pine Warbler

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Eastern Towhee

Chipping Sparrow

Song Sparrow

Swamp Sparrow

White-throated Sparrow

Dark-eyed Junco

Northern Cardinal

Red-winged Blackbird

Common Grackle

Brown-headed Cowbird

House Finch

American Goldfinch

February 29, 2020

The first Sunday walk in March was canceled because of the Newport News All City Marathon. A group of regular 'Sunday walk attendees decided to meet Saturday, February 29, 2020 and do a walk. Those participating were Ellis and Wendy Maxey, John and Marilyn Adair, Elizabeth Wilkins, Jacques von Montfranz, Stuart Sweetman, Marc Nichols, June Hartzler, Gary Wright, Cindy Shulz, Pete Peterman, Sue Tomlin, Tom Charlock and Jane Frigo. The day was cold with temperatures reaching the mid 40's and stiff winds bringing small white caps to the water. The park was already filled with activity in preparation for the next day's race. Disc golfers, dog walkers and motor cycle groups were taking advantage of the park. Still, the birding group was able to identify 53 species for the morning. All but 3 of the group made it all the way to the Swamp Bridge! There the group witnessed a Downy Woodpecker cleaning out a nest cavity right off the bridge. Should be fun watching for nestlings later in the spring. The group also heard the Virginia Rail pair calling to each other. By far the best sighting was a surprise Northern Parula seen at the Japanese Tea House area eating blossoms from the cherry trees. Everyone in the group got a good look and John Adair got an excellent picture! That would make the Parula sighting a month earlier than it's expected arrival date. With such a warm winter it will be interesting to see if other species show up earlier than normal. A complete species list follows.

Canada Goose

Wood Duck

Gadwall

American Wigeon

American Black Duck

Mallard

Ring-necked Duck

Hooded Merganser

Pied-billed Grebe

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Bald Eagle

Red-tailed Hawk

Virginia Rail

Ring-billed Gull

Rock Pigeon

Mourning Dove

Belted Kingfisher

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

Downy Woodpecker

Northern Flicker

Pileated Woodpecker

Blue Jay Northern Parula shared by John Adair

American Crow

Fish Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch

Carolina Wren

Winter Wren

Golden-crowned Kinglet

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

Eastern Bluebird

Hermit Thrush

American Robin

Northern Mockingbird

Brown Thrasher

Northern Parula

Pine Warbler

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Eastern Towhee

Song Sparrow

Swamp Sparrow

White-throated Sparrow

Dark-eyed Junco

Northern Cardinal

Red-winged Blackbird Downey Woodpecker shared by Pete Peterman

House Finch

American Goldfinch

February 16, 2020

Hopefully everyone had a good Valentine's Day. Winter has flown by but hasn't brought much winter-like weather. Today was in the upper 30's to mid 40's. Cool and refreshing! Those joining the walk were Wendy and Ellis Maxey, Marilyn and John Adair, Stuart Sweetman, Dianne Snyder, Tom Charlock, Sue Tomlin, Cindy Shulz, Lindsay Knox and Jane Frigo. The group identified 52 species. They added Wood Duck and Wigeon to this walks count but missed Bufflehead, Virginia Rail and Brown-headed Nuthatch. All 7 woodpeckers were seen! The walk for the first Sunday in March is canceled because of the One City Marathon so no count will be made for a month. Should be interesting to see how migration affects the species count. That walk will be held on March 15, 2020. A complete species list follows,

Canada Goose

Wood Duck
Gadwall

American Wigeon

American Black Duck

Mallard

Ring-necked Duck

Hooded Merganser

Pied-billed Grebe

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Bald Eagle

Ring-billed Gull

Mourning Dove

Belted Kingfisher

Red-headed Woodpecker

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker

Northern Flicker

Pileated Woodpecker

Blue Jay

American Crow

Fish Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown Creeper

Carolina Wren

Winter Wren

Golden-crowned Kinglet

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

Eastern Bluebird

Hermit Thrush

American Robin

Northern Mockingbird

Brown Thrasher

Pine Warbler

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Eastern Towhee

Song Sparrow

Swamp Sparrow

White-throated Sparrow

Dark-eyed Junco

Northern Cardinal

Red-winged Blackbird

Common Grackle

House Finch

American Goldfinch

February 2, 2020

February 2, 2020 was a pleasant winter day. Skies were clear but breezy and the temperature ranged from 37 degrees to a comfortable 52 degrees. Those joining the walk were John and Marilyn Adair, Dianne Snyder, Tom Charlock, Mike Lowry, Stuart Sweetman, Jane Frigo and newcomers Alex Hollander and Ashley King. All seven woodpeckers were seen. Both Ring-billed and Herring Gulls were noted. Ducks, although not abundant is number, included Gadwall, Mallard, Ring-necked and Hooded Merganser. A group of 5 Pied-billed Grebe were also seen. American Black Ducks were spooked up by a Bald Eagle. For unknown reasons Yellow-rumped Warblers were scarce as they have been all this season. A Brown-headed Nuthatch was seen exploring cavities in the pine trees at the Arboretum. Also, American Crows were seen there appearing to be constructing a nest. That will be worth watching. Although only Jane and Stuart made it to the Swamp Bridge they were able to hear the Virginia Rail. A species list follows.

Canada Goose

Gadwall

American Black Duck

Mallard

Ring-necked Duck

Bufflehead

Hooded Merganser

Pied-billed Grebe

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Bald Eagle

Virginia Rail

Ring-billed Gull

Herring Gull

Mourning Dove

Belted Kingfisher

Red-headed Woodpecker

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker

Northern Flicker

Pileated Woodpecker

Blue Jay

American Crow

Fish Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch

Carolina Wren

Winter Wren

Golden-crowned Kinglet

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

Eastern Bluebird

Hermit Thrush

American Robin

Northern Mockingbird

Brown Thrasher

Pine Warbler

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Eastern Towhee

Song Sparrow

Swamp Sparrow

White-throated Sparrow

Dark-eyed Junco

Northern Cardinal

Red-winged Blackbird

House Finch

American Goldfinch

January 19, 2020

Winter still didn't feel like winter on January 19, 2020. The temperature hovered in the 50's, skies were overcast but winds were calm. Ten people participated in the bird walk. They included Tom Charlock, Dianne Snyder, Cindy Shulz, Mike Lowry, Marc Nichols, Stuart Sweetman, Jane Frigo, Tom (Morocco) St. Andrea and Wendy and Ellis Maxey. The group identified 51 species without making the trek to the Swamp Bridge. Ducks continue to be in short supply. A lone American Wigeon was spotted among a small group of Gadwall. A lone Laughing Gull was spotted among the Ring-billed gulls perched on the pipeline. Woodpeckers were well represented with the exception of Red-headed yet again missed. Rusty Blackbirds were spotted among a mixed blackbird flock before disc golfers dispersed the group. A cooperative Hermit Thrush treated the group to a lengthy sighting. A complete species list follows.

Canada Goose

Gadwall

American Wigeon

Mallard

Hooded Merganser

Pied-billed Grebe

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Bald Eagle

Red-tailed Hawk

Laughing Gull

Ring-billed Gull

Mourning Dove

Belted Kingfisher

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker

Northern Flicker

Pileated Woodpecker

Blue Jay

American Crow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

White-breasted Nuthatch

Brown-headed Nuthatch

Brown Creeper

Carolina Wren

Winter Wren

Golden-crowned Kinglet

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

Eastern Bluebird

Hermit Thrush

American Robin

Northern Mockingbird

Brown Thrasher

Pine Warbler

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Eastern Towhee

Song Sparrow

White-throated Sparrow

Dark-eyed Junco

Northern Cardinal

Red-winged Blackbird

Rusty Blackbird

Common Grackle

Brown-headed Cowbird

House Finch

American Goldfinch

January 5, 2020

The first walk of 2020 was clear but cold and windy with temperatures staying in the 40's. Fifteen people helped identify 44 species for the morning in spite of the challenging conditions. Those braving the cold were Ellis and Wendy Maxey, Pete Peterman, Cindy Shulz, Dianne Snyder, Tom Charlock, Marc Nichols, Elizabeth Wilkins, Jacque von Montfrans, Susan Maples, Sue Tomlin, Cathy Bond, Hannah Montalvo, Jane Frigo and new comer Luis Boticario. Very few ducks were seen. Speculation was they were sheltering further in the inlets. The group did find Canada Geese, Gadwall,Mallard, Ring-necked Duck, Hooded Merganser and a couple Pied-billed Grebe. Bald Eagles were seen and a Sharp-shinned Hawk made a fly through. Pete got a great picture of a Pine Warbler foraging on the walkway. A lone male Kingfisher was seen perched. The group didn't venture past Swamp Point but did make a brief run across the White Oak Bridge to find a Yellow-rumped Warbler before calling it quits. Stuart Sweetman and John Adair were certainly missed but they were participating in the Mathews Audubon Christmas count. A species list follows.

Canada Goose

Gadwall

Mallard

Ring-necked Duck

Hooded Merganser

Pied-billed Grebe

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Bald Eagle

Sharp-shinned Hawk