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Updated on Friday, October 10 at 05:35 PM ET
The most recently received Mail is at the top.


Red-eyed Vireo,©Barry Kent Mackay

10 Oct HSR: Harvey's Knob (10 Oct 2008) 24 Raptors []
10 Oct Swainson's Thrush Sighting-Falls Church, VA ["Mike Webster" ]
10 Oct regarding screech owls and boxes []
10 Oct HSR: Harvey's Knob (09 Oct 2008) 3 Raptors []
10 Oct Re: Loudoun Co. Jackpot [Spring Ligi ]
10 Oct Anything further on Brown Booby at Claytor Lake ["Robert Ake" ]
10 Oct Hooded Warbler in Reston ["WILLIAM Brown" ]
10 Oct Re: screech owl question ["Tom & Lynda Blair" ]
10 Oct Re: screech owl question ["Nancy Young" ]
09 Oct HSR: Kiptopeke Hawkwatch (03 Oct 2008) 389 Raptors []
09 Oct Ruby-Throated Hummers Fredericksburg ["James Goehring" ]
09 Oct HSR: Kiptopeke Hawkwatch (02 Oct 2008) 248 Raptors []
09 Oct HSR: Kiptopeke Hawkwatch (01 Oct 2008) 239 Raptors []
09 Oct HSR: Rockfish Gap Hawk Watch (09 Oct 2008) 124 Raptors []
9 Oct screech owl question []
9 Oct Loudoun Co. Jackpot ["Jon Little" ]
9 Oct Yellow-rumps, Swamp Sparrow ["Rachel Echols" ]
9 Oct New to va-bird@listserve [JOHN AND JUNE CLARK ]
9 Oct Sapsucker, cedar waxwings ["Rachel Echols" ]
9 Oct Kiptopeke banding: slooooow but Lincoln's Sparrow []
08 Oct HSR: Harvey's Knob (08 Oct 2008) 2 Raptors []
8 Oct Kiptopeke banding:Connecticut Warbler, 5 Thrushes (inc. Bicknell's), S-C Junco []
8 Oct Bird Walk, Banshee Reeks Nature Preserve (Loudoun Co), Oct. 11 ["Joe Coleman" ]
8 Oct Voice: Greater Washington Area, Oct. 7 ["Joe Coleman" ]
7 Oct Few Fauquier odds and ends, 6-7 October []
07 Oct HSR: Harvey's Knob (07 Oct 2008) 29 Raptors []
07 Oct Huntley Meadows, Frfx Co, Oct 7 2008 ["Kurt Gaskill" ]
07 Oct Chincoteague peregrines ["MARC RIBAUDO" ]
07 Oct Late (?) Wood Thrush and some Chimney Swifts still around []
07 Oct Golden and Ruby-crowned Kinglets, Runnymede Park, Herndon, VA [Walter Hadlock ]
07 Oct HSR: Snickers Gap (07 Oct 2008) 32 Raptors []
7 Oct vesper sparrow, flint hill, fairfax county [Frederick Atwood ]
7 Oct Recent Photos [Tony Coomer ]
7 Oct Geo. Washington's Ferry Farm []
07 Oct Red-breasted Nuthatch - James River Park 42nd St, Richmond []
07 Oct Red-breasted Nuthatch - James River Park 42nd St, Richmond []
07 Oct Red-breasted Nuthatch - James River Park 42nd St, Richmond []
07 Oct HSR: Harvey's Knob (06 Oct 2008) 9 Raptors []
6 Oct Migrants in Gloucester []
06 Oct hummers []
6 Oct saw-whet owls ["Kevin Shank" ]
06 Oct HSR: Snickers Gap (06 Oct 2008) 73 Raptors []
6 Oct Shenandoah NP, Oct. 4 [Scott Baron ]
6 Oct Mystery Bird Revealed ["Roger Mayhorn" ]
6 Oct Huntley Meadows Monday Morning Birdwalk ["Harry & Melitta Glasgow" ]
6 Oct Kiptopeke banding:2 Bicknell's Thrushes, Blackpolls, and Mosquitoes []
6 Oct Late Ruby Throat [Jim Bernat ]
6 Oct Northern Neck merlin, sapsucker, warblers, white-crowned sparrow [Frederick Atwood ]
06 Oct HSR: Rockfish Gap Hawk Watch (05 Oct 2008) 83 Raptors []
5 Oct Warbler on my deck (Botetourt Co.) Oct. 4 ["Nancy Young" ]
05 Oct Mason Neck Field Trip, Frfx Co, Oct 5, 2008 ["Kurt Gaskill" ]
05 Oct FW: Dyke/post to va bird ["Kurt Gaskill" ]

Subject: HSR: Harvey's Knob (10 Oct 2008) 24 Raptors
From: reports AT hawkcount.org
Date: 10 Oct 2008 19:10:36 -0400
Harvey's Knob
Roanoke, Virginia, USA
Daily Raptor Counts: Oct 10, 2008
-------------------------------------------------------------------

Species            Day's Count    Month Total   Season Total
------------------ ----------- -------------- --------------
Black Vulture                0              0              0
Turkey Vulture               0              0              0
Osprey                       2              9            112
Bald Eagle                   1              7             65
Northern Harrier             0              2             22
Sharp-shinned Hawk          17             79            194
Cooper's Hawk                1             10             42
Northern Goshawk             0              0              0
Red-shouldered Hawk          1              1              8
Broad-winged Hawk            0              2           6252
Red-tailed Hawk              0             15             55
Rough-legged Hawk            0              0              0
Golden Eagle                 0              0              1
American Kestrel             1             15             44
Merlin                       0              2              9
Peregrine Falcon             0              4             10
Unknown Accipiter            0              4              6
Unknown Buteo                0              0              0
Unknown Falcon               1              1              1
Unknown Eagle                0              0              0
Unknown Raptor               0              3              8

Total:                      24            154           6829
----------------------------------------------------------------------

Observation start time: 10:30:00 
Observation end   time: 16:30:00 
Total observation time: 6 hours

Official Counter:        Bill James

Observers:        Bill Adams, David Kirk, Jim Hylton

Visitors:
Yes.


Weather:
Fog on the mountain early, clearing about 10:30.  Wind was NE by cloud,
East and West by face.  Beautiful day with a hint of the color to come.

Raptor Observations:
Birds out West early, some above mid-day, on the East side late.

ABE at 12:49.

Non-raptor Observations:
More AT hikers with hunger and even three going North (not all the way).

Predictions:
More wind please.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Bill James (bijam AT aol.com)
Harvey's Knob Hawk Watch information may be found at:
http://bijame.googlepages.com/home


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http://www.virginiabirds.net/
Subject: Swainson's Thrush Sighting-Falls Church, VA
From: "Mike Webster" <mzwebby AT gmail.com>
Date: Fri, 10 Oct 2008 16:32:12 -0400
Hello all,
I'm new to the list  and the area but wanted to comment on a nice sighting I
had this morning. While walking in and around my apartment complex in Falls
Church I found a nice group of migrants including Parula, Nashville Warbler,
both Kinglets, and of course Yellow-rumps. I was surprised to find so many
in an area that is mostly full of people, though there are a decent number
of trees around.

In an area just beside Fairview Lake I had great looks at a Swainson's
Thrush with clear eye ring for about 5 minutes.

I'm curious...has anyone had any Connecticut Warbler sightings in the
Fairfax/Arlington/Alexandria areas?

~Mike Webster_______________________________________________
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Subject: regarding screech owls and boxes
From: MARLENECONDON AT aol.com
Date: Fri, 10 Oct 2008 15:47:00 EDT
Hi,
 
I have been keeping extensive notes for over 2 decades on Eastern Screech  
Owls using my wildlife boxes.   In answer to the recent posts with  questions 
about these wonderful birds (I can hardly get anything else done when they are 

around!):
 
(1)  These owls will indeed share a box, but usually only when it is  quite 
cold out.  At this time of year, you are probably only seeing one owl  that is 
using the box on that particular day.  It may return daily or it  may not.
 
(2)  Red and gray owls will mate and thus would share a box at that  time.  
If you place another box close by, the male may use that instead of staying in 

the box with the female and eggs.  This is especially true if  the pair has 
mated later in the season when it could get quite hot inside a  box. 
 
(3)  It's quite typical for squirrels and screech owls to "share" a  box over 
time.  That's why you don't need to feel that you have to evict  the 
squirrels.  When an owl wants to use a box, it is quite capable  of doing so.
 
Sincerely,
Marlene
 
 
Marlene A.  Condon (Author, The Nature-Friendly Garden, Stackpole Books,  
2006)
Nature Writer/Photographer/Speaker
Crozet, VA 22932-2204
E-mail:  MARLENECONDON AT aol.com




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Subject: HSR: Harvey's Knob (09 Oct 2008) 3 Raptors
From: reports AT hawkcount.org
Date: 10 Oct 2008 16:10:03 -0400
Harvey's Knob
Roanoke, Virginia, USA
Daily Raptor Counts: Oct 09, 2008
-------------------------------------------------------------------

Species            Day's Count    Month Total   Season Total
------------------ ----------- -------------- --------------
Black Vulture                0              0              0
Turkey Vulture               0              0              0
Osprey                       0              7            110
Bald Eagle                   0              6             64
Northern Harrier             0              2             22
Sharp-shinned Hawk           3             62            177
Cooper's Hawk                0              9             41
Northern Goshawk             0              0              0
Red-shouldered Hawk          0              0              7
Broad-winged Hawk            0              2           6252
Red-tailed Hawk              0             15             55
Rough-legged Hawk            0              0              0
Golden Eagle                 0              0              1
American Kestrel             0             14             43
Merlin                       0              2              9
Peregrine Falcon             0              4             10
Unknown Accipiter            0              4              6
Unknown Buteo                0              0              0
Unknown Falcon               0              0              0
Unknown Eagle                0              0              0
Unknown Raptor               0              3              8

Total:                       3            130           6805
----------------------------------------------------------------------

Observation start time: 11:30:00 
Observation end   time: 16:30:00 
Total observation time: 5 hours

Official Counter:        Joyce Holt, Katie James

Observers:        Andy Biggs, Katie James

Visitors:
A few trail hikers, not many tourists.


Weather:
Foggy with limited visibility to the West and none to the East.  No winds. 


Raptor Observations:
No Vultures until the visibility got better.

Non-raptor Observations:


Predictions:
Better
========================================================================
Report submitted by Joyce Holt (blueskyjoyce AT adelphia.net)
Harvey's Knob Hawk Watch information may be found at:
http://bijame.googlepages.com/home


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http://www.virginiabirds.net/
Subject: Re: Loudoun Co. Jackpot
From: Spring Ligi <springyd29 AT yahoo.com>
Date: Fri, 10 Oct 2008 11:27:52 -0700 (PDT)
Hello,

I work with a wildlife rehabilitator in Maryland who has a juvenile Cedar 
Waxwing that is ready to be released. Does anyone know of a good spot in 
Loudoun County (VA) or Frederick County (MD) for the release?  


Please reply to springyd29 AT yahoo.com. Thanks for your help!

Spring Ligi
Jefferson, MD

"Beyond the disguise of outside appearances lies the beauty of every spirit." 
~May Ewald 


--- On Thu, 10/9/08, Jon Little  wrote:
From: Jon Little 
Subject: [Va-bird] Loudoun Co. Jackpot
To: "VA Birds" 
Date: Thursday, October 9, 2008, 6:34 PM



 
 

While travelling through SW Loudoun Co. today, we 
came upon a surprisingly great bird gathering. 
 
Initially, BJ noted a single Indigo Bunting flying 
across the road. As I slowed a bit, I immediately noticed a juvenile 
Red-headed WP fly into a tree nearby. After stopping, we noticed a large array 
of birds in the area flycatching and generally "pigging out" on the numerous 
bugs in the air. This went on for about 30 minutes. It's the best birding I've 
had of that sort, in such a small area, that wasn't a true "fallout". Of 
interest too, is that this spot is where one of our regular Red-tailed nests 
is, 

that we usually check in April (a rather small woodlot). For all the birds we 
saw, we didn't have to move 10 ft - it 

was basically alive with birds.
 
Best birds were the group of Red-headed Woopeckers 
- there is a large number of them in that part of the county, a fair 
distance from the "Motherload" at Sky Meadows SP.
 
List at this site:
 
Red-shouldered Hawk - 1 calling in the 
distance
Red-tailed Hawk - same
Mourning Dove 
Red-headed WP - 8-10 or so, mostly juveniles 
(constantly chasing about)
Red-bellied WP
YB Sapsucker - 1 
Downy WP
E. Wood Pewee
Traill's FC (Willow?) - 4-6, mostly 
juveniles 
E. Phoebe
Blue Jay
A. Crow
Raven - 2
Tufted Titmouse
WB Nuthatch
RB Kinglet - 1
E. Bluebird 
Mockingbird
Cedar Waxwing - many, mostly juveniles
Yellow-rumped Warbler - 2
Palm Warbler - 1
Chipping Sparrow - 1 adult
Indigo Bunting - 1
Goldfinch - 2
 
All-in-all, a fun time - serendipity shrikes 
again!
 
Jon & BJ Little
Winchester
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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http://www.virginiabirds.net/
Subject: Anything further on Brown Booby at Claytor Lake
From: "Robert Ake" <rake AT cox.net>
Date: Fri, 10 Oct 2008 12:06:05 -0400
The following posting appeared on the NARBA website. Does anyone know anything 
about this sighting? 


Virginia: BROWN BOOBY -- first report: Oct 4
> On Oct 4 Ben Simpson found a BROWN BOOBY while he was boating on 
> Claytor lake in southern VA (Pulaski Co.). It was perched on a 
> branch over the water. He stayed in the same spot for a few hours. 
> This was out of the channel from the Claytor Lake Public boat 
> launch.

Robert L. Ake
6603 Catherine Street
Norfolk VA 23505

Revel in the birds you see; don't wallow in the misery of those you missed._______________________________________________
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Subject: Hooded Warbler in Reston
From: "WILLIAM Brown" <billbr50 AT msn.com>
Date: Fri, 10 Oct 2008 12:10:14 -0400
I birded Stratton Woods Park in Reston this morning and had an excellent view 
of an adult male Hooded Warbler. Palm Warblers were everywhere -- in the woods, 
in the meadow, on the ball fields -- a minimum of 15 and possibly as many as 
25. Birds observed: 


Canada Goose     40
Turkey Vulture     1
Mourning Dove     15
Red-bellied Woodpecker     2
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker     1
Downy Woodpecker     1
Hairy Woodpecker     1
Northern Flicker     4
Eastern Phoebe     3
Blue-headed Vireo     1
Blue Jay     4
American Crow     2
Carolina Chickadee     2
Tufted Titmouse     5
Carolina Wren     3
Ruby-crowned Kinglet     10
Eastern Bluebird     4
American Robin     10
Gray Catbird     1
Northern Mockingbird     1
European Starling     20
Magnolia Warbler     1
Black-throated Blue Warbler     2
Palm Warbler     15
Hooded Warbler     1     adult male; clear view for 45-60 seconds
Eastern Towhee     5
Song Sparrow     3
Northern Cardinal     5
House Finch     20
American Goldfinch     4
House Sparrow     3_______________________________________________
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http://www.virginiabirds.net/
Subject: Re: screech owl question
From: "Tom & Lynda Blair" <tomlyn AT verizon.net>
Date: Fri, 10 Oct 2008 07:43:09 -0400
Christie..
It's great that you have these guys in your box. Can you tell me how high up 
the box is? 

Thanks..
Lynda Blair
New Kent County
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: CRHuff55 AT aol.com 
  To: va-bird AT listserve.com 
  Sent: Thursday, October 09, 2008 6:41 PM
  Subject: [Va-bird] screech owl question


 About a month ago i started seeing a red screech owl in a nesting box in our 
driveway - last winter this box was occupied by a gray screech - then about 2 
weeks ago there was a gray screech looking out of the box , and i saw the gray 
there 2 days ago- now tonight the red screech is there peering out - does 
anyone know if screeches would share a box and if red and gray would do so? 
christie huffman 



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------------------------------------------------------------------------------


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 Thank you for subscribing to Va-bird, a service of the Virginia Society of 
Ornithology. Please consider joining the VSO. 

  http://www.virginiabirds.net/_______________________________________________
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Ornithology. Please consider joining the VSO. 

http://www.virginiabirds.net/
Subject: Re: screech owl question
From: "Nancy Young" <nanjyoung AT juno.com>
Date: Fri, 10 Oct 2008 00:45:00 -0400
Christie,

 

Maybe your owls are just a mixed-race couple.  :-)

 

I had a red Screech Owl in my back yard "sharing" a hole in a red maple with
gray squirrels!  Well, not exactly sharing but the owl would be there for a
few months and then suddenly he would be gone and the squirrels moved in.
This went on for several years until early 2008 when a wind storm blew the
tree apart.  The hole is still there but now there is no roof!  When the
leaves fall off I will be watching to see if anything uses the damaged
apartment.  I had not thought of putting up a nest box.  That might bring my
owl back.  Has anyone ever heard of this kind of condo sharing?

 

Nancy Young

Botetourt County

 

  _____  

From: va-bird-bounces AT listserve.com [mailto:va-bird-bounces AT listserve.com]
On Behalf Of CRHuff55 AT aol.com
Sent: Thursday, October 09, 2008 6:41 PM
To: va-bird AT listserve.com
Subject: [Va-bird] screech owl question

 

About a month ago i started seeing a red screech owl in a nesting box in our
driveway - last winter this box was occupied by a gray screech - then about
2 weeks ago there was a gray screech looking out of the box , and i saw the
gray there 2 days ago- now tonight the red screech is there peering out -
does anyone know if screeches would share a box and if red and gray would do
so? christie huffman



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Ornithology. Please consider joining the VSO. 

http://www.virginiabirds.net/
Subject: HSR: Kiptopeke Hawkwatch (03 Oct 2008) 389 Raptors
From: reports AT hawkcount.org
Date: 09 Oct 2008 22:10:21 -0400
Kiptopeke Hawkwatch
Tip of Virginia's Eastern Shore, Virginia, USA
Daily Raptor Counts: Oct 03, 2008
-------------------------------------------------------------------

Species            Day's Count    Month Total   Season Total
------------------ ----------- -------------- --------------
Black Vulture                0              0              0
Turkey Vulture               0              0              0
Osprey                      52            113           1002
Bald Eagle                   7             16             73
Northern Harrier             3             10            139
Sharp-shinned Hawk         117            311           1677
Cooper's Hawk               41             74            493
Northern Goshawk             0              0              0
Red-shouldered Hawk          0              0              0
Broad-winged Hawk           29             33            141
Red-tailed Hawk              2              4             35
Rough-legged Hawk            0              0              0
Golden Eagle                 0              0              0
American Kestrel            71            216           2104
Merlin                      15             27            479
Peregrine Falcon            46             60            238
Unknown Accipiter            6              6              7
Unknown Buteo                0              0              2
Unknown Eagle                0              0              0
Unknown Falcon               0              0              1
Unknown Raptor               0              6             27

Total:                     389            876           6418
----------------------------------------------------------------------

Observation start time: 06:00:00 
Observation end   time: 16:00:00 
Total observation time: 10 hours

Official Counter:        Aaron Bevill, Harry Armisted

Observers:        

Weather:


Raptor Observations:


Non-raptor Observations:
334 Northern Flickers

Monarchs by hour:
7:2
9:2
10:4
11:6
1:3
2:1
3:2
========================================================================
Report submitted by Brian Taber (Taberzz AT aol.com)
Kiptopeke State Park information may be found at:
www.cvwo.org


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Subject: Ruby-Throated Hummers Fredericksburg
From: "James Goehring" <jgoehrin AT umw.edu>
Date: Thu, 09 Oct 2008 21:50:33 -0400
I had two hummers in my yard today. One was a female Runy-throated. The second 
flew in and away too quickly to ID. I assume it was a second Ruby-throated. 


Jim

James E. Goehring
Department of Classics, Philosophy, and Religion
University of Mary Washington 
Fredericksburg, VA 22401


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Subject: HSR: Kiptopeke Hawkwatch (02 Oct 2008) 248 Raptors
From: reports AT hawkcount.org
Date: 09 Oct 2008 22:10:19 -0400
Kiptopeke Hawkwatch
Tip of Virginia's Eastern Shore, Virginia, USA
Daily Raptor Counts: Oct 02, 2008
-------------------------------------------------------------------

Species            Day's Count    Month Total   Season Total
------------------ ----------- -------------- --------------
Black Vulture                0              0              0
Turkey Vulture               0              0              0
Osprey                      23             61            950
Bald Eagle                   5              9             66
Northern Harrier             3              7            136
Sharp-shinned Hawk          78            194           1560
Cooper's Hawk               25             33            452
Northern Goshawk             0              0              0
Red-shouldered Hawk          0              0              0
Broad-winged Hawk            3              4            112
Red-tailed Hawk              2              2             33
Rough-legged Hawk            0              0              0
Golden Eagle                 0              0              0
American Kestrel            90            145           2033
Merlin                       5             12            464
Peregrine Falcon             8             14            192
Unknown Accipiter            0              0              1
Unknown Buteo                0              0              2
Unknown Eagle                0              0              0
Unknown Falcon               0              0              1
Unknown Raptor               6              6             27

Total:                     248            487           6029
----------------------------------------------------------------------

Observation start time: 06:00:00 
Observation end   time: 16:00:00 
Total observation time: 10 hours

Official Counter:        Aaron Bevill

Observers:        

Weather:


Raptor Observations:


Non-raptor Observations:
inbu1
rthu2
brth5
ropl635

========================================================================
Report submitted by Brian Taber (Taberzz AT aol.com)
Kiptopeke State Park information may be found at:
www.cvwo.org


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Subject: HSR: Kiptopeke Hawkwatch (01 Oct 2008) 239 Raptors
From: reports AT hawkcount.org
Date: 09 Oct 2008 22:10:17 -0400
Kiptopeke Hawkwatch
Tip of Virginia's Eastern Shore, Virginia, USA
Daily Raptor Counts: Oct 01, 2008
-------------------------------------------------------------------

Species            Day's Count    Month Total   Season Total
------------------ ----------- -------------- --------------
Black Vulture                0              0              0
Turkey Vulture               0              0              0
Osprey                      38             38            927
Bald Eagle                   4              4             61
Northern Harrier             4              4            133
Sharp-shinned Hawk         116            116           1482
Cooper's Hawk                8              8            427
Northern Goshawk             0              0              0
Red-shouldered Hawk          0              0              0
Broad-winged Hawk            1              1            109
Red-tailed Hawk              0              0             31
Rough-legged Hawk            0              0              0
Golden Eagle                 0              0              0
American Kestrel            55             55           1943
Merlin                       7              7            459
Peregrine Falcon             6              6            184
Unknown Accipiter            0              0              1
Unknown Buteo                0              0              2
Unknown Eagle                0              0              0
Unknown Falcon               0              0              1
Unknown Raptor               0              0             21

Total:                     239            239           5781
----------------------------------------------------------------------

Observation start time: 06:00:00 
Observation end   time: 16:00:00 
Total observation time: 10 hours

Official Counter:        Aaron Bevill

Observers:        

Visitors:
Bernie and Jane Shaaf, Gary Casey, tom saunders, Bobbie Howe, Buck and
Cindy Keller, Bob and Ruth Cook, Carl and Carolyn Drasher.


Weather:


Raptor Observations:


Non-raptor Observations:
nomo: 4
dcco: 13
Nofl:166
carw:3
hegu:12
beki:1
grca:3
brwo 1
gbbg 3
bobo 36
eust 43
gbne 2
howr 1
ropi 120
bbpl 2
cach 1
noca 2
tuvu 14
tutu 1
rote 1
amcr 3
cewa 20
blja 5
modo 2
rbnu 2
flcr 13
brpe 17
trsw 70
lagu 1
ghow1
rwbl 50
blvu 10
hosp 1
weki appeared over hawk platform  AT  325 pm flying east toward park
entrance.  grey back. yellow breast, black tail.
rthu 1
========================================================================
Report submitted by Brian Taber (Taberzz AT aol.com)
Kiptopeke State Park information may be found at:
www.cvwo.org


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Subject: HSR: Rockfish Gap Hawk Watch (09 Oct 2008) 124 Raptors
From: reports AT hawkcount.org
Date: 09 Oct 2008 21:10:35 -0400
Rockfish Gap Hawk Watch
Waynesboro, Virginia, USA
Daily Raptor Counts: Oct 09, 2008
-------------------------------------------------------------------

Species            Day's Count    Month Total   Season Total
------------------ ----------- -------------- --------------
Black Vulture                0              0              0
Turkey Vulture               0              0              0
Osprey                       1             13            133
Bald Eagle                   1              3             34
Northern Harrier             3              7             26
Sharp-shinned Hawk          94            278            602
Cooper's Hawk               13             32             87
Northern Goshawk             0              0              1
Red-shouldered Hawk          0              0              1
Broad-winged Hawk            0              7          14436
Red-tailed Hawk              4             13             36
Rough-legged Hawk            0              0              0
Golden Eagle                 0              0              1
American Kestrel             7             22             91
Merlin                       0              1              4
Peregrine Falcon             1              6             16
Unknown Accipiter            0              1              1
Unknown Buteo                0              0              2
Unknown Falcon               0              0              0
Unknown Eagle                0              0              0
Unknown Raptor               0              0              6
Mississippi Kite             0              0              1

Total:                     124            383          15478
----------------------------------------------------------------------

Observation start time: 08:30:00 
Observation end   time: 16:00:00 
Total observation time: 7.5 hours

Official Counter:        Vic Laubach

Observers:        Robert Plank

Weather:
Nice warm day with plenty of clouds to help spot birds. Light winds from SW
until 11am where the winds dropped to a light breeze from SE. 25-50% cloud
cover until noon where more clouds came in to become mostly cloudy the rest
of day. Temp. 24C all day. Humidity 57-67%.

Raptor Observations:
A nice day with early birds flying fairly low to the SW and later birds
spotted high in the sky flying to the SE. 
Total of eight species observed today. Immature Bald Eagle at 11:25am,
adult Peregrine Falcon at 10:14am, and 3 Northern Harriers today. Hourly
Sharp-Shinned count: 4 (8:30-9), 28 (9-10), 11 (10-11), 8 (11-12), 6
(12-1), 10 (1-2), 13 (2-3), 4 (3-4). I thought I was going to break triple
digits for Sharp-Shinned Hawks, but not quite. The last bird of the day was
a N. Harrier.

Non-raptor Observations:
Lots of Chimney Swifts.
>6 Ravens
========================================================================
Report submitted by Vic Laubach (laubach AT virginia.edu)
Rockfish Gap Hawk Watch, VA information may be found at:
http://home.ntelos.net/~btkin/rockfish_gap_hawk_watch
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Subject: screech owl question
From: CRHuff55 AT aol.com
Date: Thu, 9 Oct 2008 18:41:05 EDT
About a month ago i started seeing a red screech owl in a nesting box in our 
driveway - last winter this box was occupied by a gray screech - then about 2 
weeks ago there was a gray screech looking out of the box , and i saw the gray 
there 2 days ago- now tonight the red screech is there peering out - does 
anyone know if screeches would share a box and if red and gray would do so? 
christie huffman


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Subject: Loudoun Co. Jackpot
From: "Jon Little" <littlejon48 AT comcast.net>
Date: Thu, 9 Oct 2008 18:34:25 -0400
While travelling through SW Loudoun Co. today, we came upon a surprisingly 
great bird gathering. 


Initially, BJ noted a single Indigo Bunting flying across the road. As I slowed 
a bit, I immediately noticed a juvenile Red-headed WP fly into a tree nearby. 
After stopping, we noticed a large array of birds in the area flycatching and 
generally "pigging out" on the numerous bugs in the air. This went on for about 
30 minutes. It's the best birding I've had of that sort, in such a small area, 
that wasn't a true "fallout". Of interest too, is that this spot is where one 
of our regular Red-tailed nests is, that we usually check in April (a rather 
small woodlot). For all the birds we saw, we didn't have to move 10 ft - it was 
basically alive with birds. 


Best birds were the group of Red-headed Woopeckers - there is a large number of 
them in that part of the county, a fair distance from the "Motherload" at Sky 
Meadows SP. 


List at this site:

Red-shouldered Hawk - 1 calling in the distance
Red-tailed Hawk - same
Mourning Dove 
Red-headed WP - 8-10 or so, mostly juveniles (constantly chasing about)
Red-bellied WP
YB Sapsucker - 1 
Downy WP
E. Wood Pewee
Traill's FC (Willow?) - 4-6, mostly juveniles 
E. Phoebe
Blue Jay
A. Crow
Raven - 2
Tufted Titmouse
WB Nuthatch
RB Kinglet - 1
E. Bluebird 
Mockingbird
Cedar Waxwing - many, mostly juveniles
Yellow-rumped Warbler - 2
Palm Warbler - 1
Chipping Sparrow - 1 adult
Indigo Bunting - 1
Goldfinch - 2

All-in-all, a fun time - serendipity shrikes again!

Jon & BJ Little
Winchester







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Subject: Yellow-rumps, Swamp Sparrow
From: "Rachel Echols" <rlechols AT comcast.net>
Date: Thu, 9 Oct 2008 17:53:23 -0400
Just after sending off my last post to the listserve, I went outside and
found at least 3 yellow-rumped warblers in the yard.  Also, I had a few
sparows in the weeds at the edge of the lake, and one turned out to be a
swamp sparrow, another new yard bird.  I also had a juvenile red-shouldered
hawk perched on a snag at the edge of the lake, a ways down the shore.

Rachel Echols
Chester, VA_______________________________________________
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Subject: New to va-bird@listserve
From: JOHN AND JUNE CLARK <jcandjc2 AT verizon.net>
Date: Thu, 9 Oct 2008 14:30:57 -0700 (PDT)
10/9/08
June and I are new comers to Roanoke, Va (June '06) and are hoping to be 
regular contributers to the list. We were members of GABO (Georgia Birders) 
while living in Atlanta. Hopefully migrants will begin stopping by to welcome 
us soon. 


John Clark
Roanoke, VA
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Subject: Sapsucker, cedar waxwings
From: "Rachel Echols" <rlechols AT comcast.net>
Date: Thu, 9 Oct 2008 16:12:54 -0400
Hi everyone,

I had my FOS SAPSUCKER in the yard today, a juvenile.  He seems to be trying
to find his place in the world, as I saw robins, titmice, and a red-bellied
woodpecker chasing the poor little guy.

I also had a good sized flock of CEDAR WAXWINGS feasting on some berries or
grapes in a high tree.

Yesterday I had a N. PARULA and a PALM WARBLER  in the yard as well, which
now makes 110 species on my yard list!

Happy Birding,

Rachel Echols
Chester, VA_______________________________________________
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Subject: Kiptopeke banding: slooooow but Lincoln's Sparrow
From: Jethrorunco AT aol.com
Date: Thu, 9 Oct 2008 14:52:13 EDT
Howdy all,

Another sleeper day at the banding station. As expected  (with the light 
south winds and just the plain lack of birds in the area), I  wasn't expecting 
much. And that's just what we got. Although it was slow, we did  catch 16 but 
more impressively it was made up of 13 species. So at least  diversity was ok. 
Best bird of the day went to the LINCOLN'S SPARROW that we  banded first thing 
this morning. Also had another BLACKPOLL WARBLER today as  well. We did have 
our first four sparrow species day! I like that!

Here  are the totals (brace yourself):
 
American  Redstart              2
Northern  Parula                    1
Magnolia  Warbler                 1
Blackpoll  Warbler                1
Eastern  Wood-Pewee           1
House  Wren                        1
Carolina  Chickadee              1
Field  Sparrow                        1
Swamp  Sparrow                    2
Lincoln's  Sparrow                   1
Song  Sparrow                       1
Tufted  Titmouse                      2
Gray  Catbird                           1           (1 catbird + 0  
yellow-rumps=slow)
TOTAL--------------------------------- 16
 
Tomorrow doesn't look any better. yippee. 
Oh, and the mosquitoes are  now everywhere. Full force. Boy, I can't wait for 
tomorrow!!  

Cheers,
Jethro Runco
Coastal Virginia Wildlife Observatory 
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Subject: HSR: Harvey's Knob (08 Oct 2008) 2 Raptors
From: reports AT hawkcount.org
Date: 08 Oct 2008 20:10:08 -0400
Harvey's Knob
Roanoke, Virginia, USA
Daily Raptor Counts: Oct 08, 2008
-------------------------------------------------------------------

Species            Day's Count    Month Total   Season Total
------------------ ----------- -------------- --------------
Black Vulture                0              0              0
Turkey Vulture               0              0              0
Osprey                       0              7            110
Bald Eagle                   0              6             64
Northern Harrier             0              2             22
Sharp-shinned Hawk           0             59            174
Cooper's Hawk                0              9             41
Northern Goshawk             0              0              0
Red-shouldered Hawk          0              0              7
Broad-winged Hawk            0              2           6252
Red-tailed Hawk              2             15             55
Rough-legged Hawk            0              0              0
Golden Eagle                 0              0              1
American Kestrel             0             14             43
Merlin                       0              2              9
Peregrine Falcon             0              4             10
Unknown Accipiter            0              4              6
Unknown Buteo                0              0              0
Unknown Falcon               0              0              0
Unknown Eagle                0              0              0
Unknown Raptor               0              3              8

Total:                       2            127           6802
----------------------------------------------------------------------

Observation start time: 08:00:00 
Observation end   time: 13:30:00 
Total observation time: 5.5 hours

Official Counter:        Bill Grant

Observers:        David Kirk

Visitors:
VEHICLES DRIVING THROUGH THE KNOB TODAY FROM DELAWARE, FLORIDA, INDIANA,
ILLINOIS, LOUISIANA, MARYLAND, NEW JERSEY, NEW  YORK, NORTH CAROLINA, OHIO,
SOUTH CAROLINA, TEXAS AND WEST VIRGINIA.

ONE HIKER MOVED THROUGH QUICKLY FROM SOUTH TO THE NORTH TRAIL.

FEWER  MOTORCYCLES THAN IN PAST WEEKS.


Weather:
THE SITE SHOWED PROMISE WHEN I FIRST ARRIVED WITH THE SUN TRYING TO COME
THROUGH BUT WENT STEADILY DOWNHILL AFTER THAT. CLOUDS CAME OVER THE KNOB
FROM AROUND 8:15 UNTIL WELL AFTER 12:00 WHEN VISIBILITY CLEARED A LITTLE
BUT SOON GAVE WAY TO A STEADY RAIN BY 1:15. WINDS WERE STEADY ALL DAY FROM
THE SE WITH NO WIND BEING RECORDABLE ON THE WEST SIDE OF THE KNOB DUE TO
THE STAND OF TREES TO THE EAST. THE OPENING ON THE EAST SIDE HOWEVER
PROVIDED WINDS RANGING FROM 1-3 BEAUFORT.

Raptor Observations:
TWO REDTAILS WERE COUNTABLE TODAY WITH THE FIRST COMING IN OVER THE WEST
SIDE OF THE KNOB AND FLYING JUST UNDER THE CLOUDS. DEFINITELY NOT A LOCAL
AS IT NEVER FLAPPED ITS WINGS AND FLEW STRAIGHT TO THE SOUTH AND OUT OF
SITE.  IT APPEARED AT 10:44. THE OTHER ALSO CAME IN OVER THE WEST SIDE AT
12:17 PASSED TO THE SOUTH CAME BACK TOWARDS THE KNOB AND KITED FOR A FEW
MINUTES THEN TURNED SOUTH AGAIN AND WENT OUT OF SITE.  OBSERVED THREE
OTHERS WHO WERE DEFINITELY LOCALS WORKING THE KNOB AND OCCASIONALY GOING
DOWN FOR SUSPECTED FOOD.

Non-raptor Observations:
HEARD A NUMBER OF NUTHATCHES, TOWHEES AND CARDINALS. THERE WERE TWO BLUE
JAYS WHO FLEW CONSTANTLY BACK AND FORTH JABBERING QUITE A BIT. ONLY ONE
TURKEY VULTURE WORKED THE KNOB FOR A PERIOD OF ABOUT 20-30 MINUTES. AT
10:10 A GROUP OF 10 NORTHERN FLICKERS FLEW ABOUT OVER THE WEST SIDE OF THE
KNOB LANDING IN THE TREES THERE FOR GOOD LOOKS AND THEN EVENTUALLY THEY
FLEW NORTH OVER THE KNOB AND DISAPPEARED. ALSO HEARD AND SAW TWO PILEATED
WOODPECKERS.

Predictions:
NOT LOOKING GOOD FOR TOMORROW OR FRIDAY AND MAYBE PART OF THE DAY SATURDAY
WITH RAIN FORECAST FOR THE PERIOD.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Bill Grant (clarinetman AT earthlink.net)
Harvey's Knob Hawk Watch information may be found at:
http://bijame.googlepages.com/home


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Subject: Kiptopeke banding:Connecticut Warbler, 5 Thrushes (inc. Bicknell's), S-C Junco
From: Jethrorunco AT aol.com
Date: Wed, 8 Oct 2008 17:48:16 EDT
Howdy all,

Well the last two days have not really been what we were  expecting. 
Yesterday (after the front?) we were expecting a lot more in overall numbers. 
That 

really didn't happen. Then today, it was dead. Oh well. 
 
So yesterday, we banded our 3rd CONNECTICUT WARBLER of the season. But  
probably what I will remember most was the 5 different thrushes we caught. I 
have 

seen a four thrush day a good number of times here, but I can't recall ever  
having a five thrush day. The best being our 4th BICKNELL'S THRUSH of the  
season, followed by a not often caught WOOD THRUSH, and then the more expected 

SWAINSON'S, GRAY-CHEEKED, and a getting later VEERY.  We also had our first  
SLATE-COLORED JUNCO of the season. And although not quite on that level, we 
also 

had our first PINE WARBLER of the season (yes, really). We also caught  
another BLACKPOLL WARBLER as well. 
Today it was slim pickins. Another  BLACKPOLL and the first SWAMP SPARROW of 
the season, and that was about  all.

Totals for 10/7:
American  Redstart                     5
Northern  Parula                         2
Magnolia  Warbler                       1
Palm  Warbler                             1               western race
Common  Yellowthroat                 2
Black-and-white  Warbler              3
Black-thr. Blue  Warbler               11
Blackpoll  Warbler                        1
Yellow-rumped  Warbler               17
Pine  Warbler                              1              first of the season
Connecticut  Warbler                     1
Slate-colored  Junco                      1            first of the  season
Red-eyed  Vireo                           1
Indigo  Bunting                              1
Gray-cheeked  Thrush                    4
Bicknell's  Thrush                           1
Swainson's  Thrush                         2
Veery                                          1
Wood  Thrush                                 1
Song  Sparrow                                2
Gray  Catbird                                26
Northern  Cardinal                           2
Brown  Thrasher                            1
TOTAL ------------------------------------   88
 
10/8:
 
American  Redstart                        1
Yellow-rumped  Warbler                  2
Black-thr. Blue  Warbler                  2
Blackpoll  Warbler                          1
Swamp  Sparrow                           1                  first of the 
season, one sexy adult!
Gray  Catbird                                 6
Eastern  Towhee                           1
Brown  Thrasher                             2
TOTAL--------------------------------------   16            yep that's  it
 
 
Cheers,
Jethro Runco
Coastal Virginia Wildlife Observatory



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Subject: Bird Walk, Banshee Reeks Nature Preserve (Loudoun Co), Oct. 11
From: "Joe Coleman" <joecoleman AT rcn.com>
Date: Wed, 8 Oct 2008 15:57:09 -0400
The regular (every 2nd Sat.) monthly bird walk at the Banshee Reeks Nature 
Preserve in central Loudoun County will occur this Sat., Oct. 11, 

meeting at 8:00 am at the Visitor Center/Manor House. Everyone is welcome at 
these bird walks which are sponsored by the Loudoun Wildlife 

Conservancy (www.loudounwildlife.org) and the Friends of Banshee Reeks 
(www.bansheereeks.org). This walk will be led by Gerry Hawkins. 


Information and directions for Banshee Reeks, which is now open every weekends 
from 8 am to 4 pm, can be found at http://www.bansheereeks.org. 


Thanks, Joe Coleman
540-554-2542 or joecoleman AT rcn.com_______________________________________________
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Subject: Voice: Greater Washington Area, Oct. 7
From: "Joe Coleman" <joecoleman AT rcn.com>
Date: Wed, 8 Oct 2008 10:43:32 -0400
FYI - this report is for sightings from 9/30 through 10/6.
Joe Coleman

Hotline:            Voice of the Naturalist 
Date:               10/7/2008 
Coverage:           MD/DC/VA/DE 
Telephone:          301-652-1088 option 1 
Reports (voice):    301-652-1088 option 2 
        (email):    voice AT AudubonNaturalist.org 
     (deadline):    midnight Mondays 
Compiler:           Helen Patton
Sponsor:            Audubon Naturalist Society of the 
                    Central Atlantic States (independent of NAS!) 
Transcriber:        Steve Cordle (scordle AT capaccess.org) 

Please consider joining ANS, especially if you are a regular user of
the Voice (Individual $40; Family $50; Nature Steward $75; Audubon
Advocate $150). The membership number is 301-652-9188, option 12; the
address is 8940 Jones Mill Road, Chevy Chase, MD 20815; and the web
site is http://www.AudubonNaturalist.org. 

This is the Voice of the Naturalist, a service of the Audubon
Naturalist Society. This report was completed Tuesday, October 7, at
3:30 p.m.

Top birds this week are WHITE-CHEEKED PINTAIL in WV and CALIFORNIA
GULL* in VA.

Other birds of interest include AMERICAN BITTERN, NORTHERN GOSHAWK,
falcons, shorebirds, BONAPARTE'S GULL, BLACK TERN, woodpeckers,
flycatchers, BLUE-HEADED and PHILADELPHIA VIREO, WINTER WREN, thrushes
including BICKNELL'S, warblers including CONNECTICUT, and sparrows,
including CLAY-COLORED and LINCOLN'S.

A WHITE-CHEEKED PINTAIL has been present since mid-Sept in a pond at
the Huntfield subdivision south of Charles Town, Jefferson Co, WV. It
can be found by taking Rte 340 south at Charles Town from the
interchange of US 340, Rt. 9, and Rt. 51, go about 3.3 miles to
Augustine Avenue where you need to take a sharp right. The Huntfield
subdivision is just ahead on the left. Take the second left onto
Prospect Hills Blvd. At the circle/obelisk, go right onto Butler
Street. At the next circle, go 3/4 of the way around circle, taking
the first right (Colston Road). The pond will be on your right a
little ways ahead.

On October 1, a juvenal-plumaged CALIFORNIA GULL was found on the
beach at Cape Charles, Northampton Co, VA.

A juvenile NORTHERN GOSHAWK was reported from the Turkey Point Hawk
Watch, Cecil Co, MD on October 5.

A MERLIN and six PEREGRINE FALCONS were noted at Washington Monument
SP, Washington Co, MD on October 3. On the same day, two MERLINS and a
PEREGRINE FALCON were seen at Assateague Island, Worcester Co, MD.
Other PEREGRINE sightings included a yard in Ferndale, Anne Arundel
Co, MD and Rock Creek Park, DC, on October 1; Point Lookout, St.
Mary's Co, MD on October 3 and Western Regional Park, Howard Co, MD on
October 6. 

A trip to Hart-Miller Island on October 4 recorded 10 shorebird
species including BLACK-BELLIED PLOVER and WHITE-RUMPED SANDPIPER.
Non-shorebird sightings included AMERICAN BITTERN, MERLIN, PEREGRINE
FALCON and LINCOLN'S SPARROW.

Two BONAPARTE'S GULLS and a BLACK TERN were spotted at Point Lookout,
St. Mary's Co, MD on October 5.

Two RED-HEADED WOODPECKERS were reported from Hughes Hollow,
Montgomery Co, MD on October 1 and another was seen on October 3.
There were also several reports of YELLOW-BELLIED SAPSUCKERS returning
to the area this past week.

An OLIVE-SIDED FLYCATCHER was seen at Lake Artemesia, Prince George's
Co, MD on October 4.
 
A BLUE-HEADED VIREO was seen at Rock Creek Park, DC on October 1, 4
and 6 while another was at Rockburn Branch Park, Howard Co, MD on
October 2. Another BLUE-HEADED VIREO was at Little Bennett Regional
Park, Montgomery Co, MD on October 6. A PHILADELPHIA VIREO was banded
at Kiptopeke SP, Northampton Co, VA on October 1.
 
WINTER WRENS are starting to appear with sightings from Rock Creek
Park on October 1, 2 and 5 and Little Bennett Regional Park on October
6.

GRAY-CHEEKED THRUSHES were among the different species of thrushes
found moving through the area this past week. One was found at the
Hashawha Nature Center, Carroll Co, MD on October 3. Both GRAY-CHEEKED
and SWAINSON'S THRUSHES were seen at Paper Mill Flats, Baltimore Co,
MD and at Mason Neck NWR, Fairfax Co, VA on October 5. SWAINSON'S
THRUSHES were seen at Rock Creek Park on October 1 and 2. The banding
station at Kiptopeke SP caught six thrush species, including
GRAY-CHEEKED, BICKNELL'S and SWAINSON'S during the week.

Warbler migration continued throughout the area with a wide diversity
of different species being reported from a number of different
locations. 

A BLUE-WINGED WARBLER was spotted on Lower Pindell Road, Anne Arundel
Co, MD on October 2. An ORANGE-CROWNED WARBLER was seen at Fort
Smallwood, Anne Arundel Co, MD on October 3. A CONNECTICUT WARBLER was
banded at Kiptopeke SP on October 1. CONNECTICUT WARBLERS were seen on
Lower Pindell Road and Hughes Hollow on October 3. A CONNECTICUT
WARBLER was seen at Huntley Meadows Park, Fairfax Co, VA on October 4.
Another CONNECTICUT WARBLER appeared at Mason Neck NWR on October 5. A
MOURNING WARBLER was sighted at the Elkhorn Garden Plots, Columbia,
Howard Co, MD on October 1. Another MOURNING WARBLER was seen at
Governor Bridge Road Park, near the Patuxent River, MD on October 2. A
female WILSON'S WARBLER paid a visit to a yard in Ferndale, Anne
Arundel Co, MD on October 1.

A CLAY-COLORED SPARROW was sighted at the Swan Creek Facility, Anne
Arundel Co, MD on October 1. Another CLAY-COLORED SPARROW was at the
Indian Creek WMA, Charles Co, MD on October 2. Yet another
CLAY-COLORED SPARROW was seen on Assateague Island, Worcester Co, MD
on October 4. Both a CLAY-COLORED and a LINCOLN'S SPARROW were seen at
Millington WMA, Kent Co, MD on October 4. Two LINCOLN'S SPARROWS were
on Grace Hill Farm in the scrub along Ebenezer Church Road (Rte 779)
near Bluemont in western Loudoun Co, VA on October 1. Another
LINCOLN'S SPARROW was banded at Kiptopeke SP on the same day. More
LINCOLN'S SPARROWS were in Howard Co, MD: one at Rockburn Branch Park
and another at Meadowbrook Park on October 2. On October 3, two
LINCOLN'S SPARROWS were sighted at Hashawha Nature Center while
another LINCOLN'S SPARROW was at Terrapin Park, Queen Anne's Co, MD on
October 4. A LINCOLN'S SPARROW was noted at Rock Creek Park on October
5. Another LINCOLN'S SPARROW was noted at the Elkhorn Garden Plots on
October 6. A WHITE-CROWNED SPARROW was seen near Melvin Hazen Park, DC
on October 3.

Some of this week's reports have been gleaned from the MDOsprey,
VA-Bird, and DE-bird list servers. 

Finding Birds in the National Capital Area by Claudia Wilds is an
excellent source for directions to many birding sites. The ANS
Bookstore (301-652-3606 or
www.audubonnaturalist.org/cgi-bin/mesh/store) is an excellent source
for this and many other nature-related titles. 

To report bird sightings, e-mail your report to
voice AT AudubonNaturalist.org or call 301-652-1088 and select menu
option 2. Please post reports before midnight Monday, identify the
county as well as state, and include your name and a Tuesday morning
contact, either e-mail or phone. 

Thank you for calling, and GOOD BIRDING. 

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Subject: Few Fauquier odds and ends, 6-7 October
From: BlkVulture AT aol.com
Date: Tue, 7 Oct 2008 23:03:05 EDT
Hola,
 
Was able to cobble together a bit of birding over the last two days, with  
the most notable find being a Loggerhead Shrike near Remington today, 7  
October. It was along Grassdale Road, which has had fall-arriving wintering 
shrikes 

in the past.  Stranger than the shrike here was the  number of Kestrels.  All 
summer long it has been easy to find up to a dozen  Kestrels along the road, 
but this afternoon I was able to see nineteen at once  perched atop small 
trees, alit along wires, or on fence posts, and then a few others at the far 
end 

of the road.  Seems a big number of Kestrels.   Grasshoppers and crickets 
don't stand a prayer. There was a beautiful immature harrier here as well. I 

had adult Harriers in the Remington area  twice during August.  Eastern 
Meadowlarks, Savannah Sparrows, Horned Larks, and a single Grasshopper Sparrow 
were 

also noted.  Two Red-headed  Woodpeckers were seen in the dead trees looking 
back toward the government  facility from Grassdale, a typical haunt.  
 
Elsewhere in Fauquier, Ring-necked Ducks are starting to arrive on some of  
the lakes, and one pond held eight Ruddy Ducks.  Canada Goose numbers are  
building county-wide, but nothing more exotic thus far.  
 
Monday saw thousands of Blue Jays moving through the area.  I barely  spent 
two hours out doors, and had a loose count of 1500 birds.
 
Cheers, 
 
Todd
 
---------------------------------
Todd Michael  Day
Jeffersonton, Virginia
Culpeper County,  USA
blkvulture AT aol.com
---------------------------------



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Subject: HSR: Harvey's Knob (07 Oct 2008) 29 Raptors
From: reports AT hawkcount.org
Date: 07 Oct 2008 22:10:17 -0400
Harvey's Knob
Roanoke, Virginia, USA
Daily Raptor Counts: Oct 07, 2008
-------------------------------------------------------------------

Species            Day's Count    Month Total   Season Total
------------------ ----------- -------------- --------------
Black Vulture                0              0              0
Turkey Vulture               0              0              0
Osprey                       1              7            110
Bald Eagle                   1              6             64
Northern Harrier             1              2             22
Sharp-shinned Hawk          15             59            174
Cooper's Hawk                1              9             41
Northern Goshawk             0              0              0
Red-shouldered Hawk          0              0              7
Broad-winged Hawk            0              2           6252
Red-tailed Hawk              4             13             53
Rough-legged Hawk            0              0              0
Golden Eagle                 0              0              1
American Kestrel             2             14             43
Merlin                       0              2              9
Peregrine Falcon             1              4             10
Unknown Accipiter            2              4              6
Unknown Buteo                0              0              0
Unknown Falcon               0              0              0
Unknown Eagle                0              0              0
Unknown Raptor               1              3              8

Total:                      29            125           6800
----------------------------------------------------------------------

Observation start time: 09:15:00 
Observation end   time: 16:15:00 
Total observation time: 7 hours

Official Counter:        Bill James, Katie James

Observers:        Andy Biggs, David Kirk, Joyce Holt, Katie James

Weather:
Wind 2-3 all day varying from East to SSE.  Cool, not so clear.

Raptor Observations:
An adult Eagle went East to West and did not pass the migratory line.  Most
birds on the East side and fairly low.  Imm. BE at 1:45.

Non-raptor Observations:
AT hikers in starvation mode - 4 going to Georgia, started in Maine in late
June.  The first two ate all my peanuts, drank half my water (which I bring
for hikers).  One came later, fed copiously by passersby on the parkway -
they were meeting tomorrow to share a room and get food and a shower.  The
fourth came later and was raving about eating in Buena Vista and having
'sweet tea' - something he had never had up North.  (I have only recently
discovered sweet tea vodka made in South Carolina at the only tea
plantation in the USA.)

Predictions:
More motorcycles likely.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Bill James (bijam AT aol.com)
Harvey's Knob Hawk Watch information may be found at:
http://bijame.googlepages.com/home


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Subject: Huntley Meadows, Frfx Co, Oct 7 2008
From: "Kurt Gaskill" <KurtCapt87 AT verizon.net>
Date: Tue, 07 Oct 2008 20:49:15 -0500
VA BIRDers,

 

An October cold front and clear morning skies scream "get out and bird" so I
did the best I could with 2 hours at Huntley Meadows this morning, VC side.
Highlight were 3 Lincoln's Sparrows, one of which was about 10 feet away in
the fallen tree (with the dried up leaves) near the boardwalk, initial
section, just after the first turn.  Other highlights were 2 vireos species,
Winter Wren, 11 warbler species, White-crowned Sparrow and Blue Grosbeak.
Observations began at the parking lot about when the sun touches the tree
tops - & about 45 minutes later I started down the path to the marsh.  I was
joined by the only one other birder this morning - Mark, from Falls Church.
The list is given below.

 

Kurt Gaskill

 

C. Goose 35

Great Blue Heron 1

Red-shouldered Hawk 1

Rock Pigeon 35

Mourning Dove 8

Barred Owl 1, in the parking lot, mobbed

Belted Kingfisher 1

RB WP 3

Downy WP 3

No. Flicker 7

E. Phoebe 1

Blue-headed V 1

Red-eyed V 1

Blue Jay 8

Am. Crow 18

C. Chickadee 7

T. Ttimouse 8

White-headed Nuthatch 5

C. Wren 5

W. Wren 1

GC Kinglet 2

RC Kinglet 6

E. Bluebird 10

Am. Robin 8

Gray Catbird 1

Brown Thrasher 1

Tennessee 1

Nashville 1

No. Parula 2

Magnolia 1

Yellow-rumped 20, yep, now the dominate warbler

Black-thr Green 2

Pine 1

Palm 9

Blackpoll 2

Black & White 1

Com. Yellowthroat 7

E. Towhee 1

Song Sp 32

Lincoln's Sp 3

Swamp Sp 10

White-thr Sp 4

White-crowned Sp 1

No. Cardinal 10

Blue Grosbeak 1

Indigo Bunting 10

Red-winged BB 50

House Finch 2

Am. Goldfinch 8
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Subject: Chincoteague peregrines
From: "MARC RIBAUDO" <moribaudo AT verizon.net>
Date: Tue, 07 Oct 2008 19:13:42 -0400
I spent a couple of days at Chincoteague with my wife, engaging in some 
leisurely birding. On the 6th we drove around the wildlife drive and were 
struck by the total lack of birds. The answer was revealed when a scan with the 
scope revealed 6 peregrine falcons scattered around the slightly damp Snow 
Goose pool, sitting on the ground. Quite a sight. Only one appeared to be 
eating something. Other birds noted were 4 other migtrating peregrines, 
migrating flocks of scoters (mostly black, with one flock of surf), a flock of 
brant, rusty blackbirds, and golden-crowned kinglets. 


Marc Ribaudo
Woodbridge, VA_______________________________________________
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Subject: Late (?) Wood Thrush and some Chimney Swifts still around
From: steveyoung AT aol.com
Date: Tue, 07 Oct 2008 19:13:05 -0400
At 6:30 PM this evening I heard and saw a late (?) Wood Thrush at Willow Pond 
at Long Branch Nature Center in Arlington. I first heard its very soft, 
one-note sound that to me sounds a bit like a "cluck." Then it showed itself 
and began some fairly vigorous alarming and scolding. Several extremely poor, 
dim-light photos. 


Also there are still some Chimney Swifts flying around. Have not seen any local 
Gray Catbirds for a couple days. 


Cheers,

???? Steve Young
???? Glencarlyn, Arlington_______________________________________________
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Subject: Golden and Ruby-crowned Kinglets, Runnymede Park, Herndon, VA
From: Walter Hadlock <jaybirdncarol AT verizon.net>
Date: Tue, 07 Oct 2008 17:23:01 -0400
Hello all,

On an afternoon walk today in Runnymede Park, Herndon, VA (Fairfax  
County), we had a very birdy time. Our list of the 30 species we saw  
follows:

TURKEY VULTURE
RED-SHOULDERED HAWK
MOURNING DOVE
BELTED KINGFISHER--flying back and forth along Sugarland Run
RED-BELLIED WOODPECKER

DOWNY WOODPECKER
HAIRY WOODPECKER--see along the Sugarland Run Stream Valley Park  
trail (across from Runnymede)
NORTHERN FLICKER
EASTERN PHOEBE
BLUE JAY

AMERICAN CROWN (H)
CAROLINA CHICKADEE
TUFTED TITMOUSE
WHITE-BREASTED NUTHATCH
CAROLINA WREN

WINTER WREN
GOLDEN-CROWNED KINGLET
RUBY-CROWNED KINGLET
EASTERN BLUEBIRD
AMERICAN ROBIN

GRAY CATBIRD
YELLOW-RUMPED WARBLER
PALM WARBLER
EASTERN TOWHEE
SONG SPARROW

SWAMP SPARROW
WHITE-THROATED SPARROW
NORTHERN CARDINAL
AMERICAN GOLDFINCH
HOuSE SPARROW

Good birding to all,

Carol and Jay Hadlock
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Subject: HSR: Snickers Gap (07 Oct 2008) 32 Raptors
From: reports AT hawkcount.org
Date: 07 Oct 2008 16:10:59 -0400
Snickers Gap
20 Miles West of Leesburg, Virginia, USA
Daily Raptor Counts: Oct 07, 2008
-------------------------------------------------------------------

Species            Day's Count    Month Total   Season Total
------------------ ----------- -------------- --------------
Black Vulture                0              0              0
Turkey Vulture               0              0              0
Osprey                       0              7             95
Bald Eagle                   2             17             71
Northern Harrier             0              5             21
Sharp-shinned Hawk          18            100            383
Cooper's Hawk                0             22             83
Northern Goshawk             0              0              0
Red-shouldered Hawk          3              4             27
Broad-winged Hawk            1              2           5821
Red-tailed Hawk              7             46            117
Rough-legged Hawk            0              0              0
Golden Eagle                 0              0              1
American Kestrel             0              2             44
Merlin                       0              1              7
Peregrine Falcon             0              4             12
Unknown Accipiter            0              1              4
Unknown Buteo                1              4              6
Unknown Falcon               0              0              2
Unknown Eagle                0              0              0
Unknown Raptor               0              3              8

Total:                      32            218           6702
----------------------------------------------------------------------

Observation start time: 09:00:00 
Observation end   time: 14:00:00 
Total observation time: 5 hours

Official Counter:        BJ Little

Observers:        Bev Leeuwenburg, Jen Folts

Weather:
All day, light winds wafted occasionally from one side of the gap or the
other. Some high cirrus clouds and persistant contrails. Temps 9-13C.

Raptor Observations:
First bird of the day was a lovely, adult Broadwing which lifted out of the
trees just across the road at 9:15.
Adult BAEA 11:05
Third Year BAEA 11:07

Non-raptor Observations:
Bluejays, Flickers and 2 Sapsuckers crossed. Also,one flock of about 50
Tree Swallows.
5 Ravens
========================================================================
Report submitted by BJ Little (bluejay88 AT adelphia.net)


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Subject: vesper sparrow, flint hill, fairfax county
From: Frederick Atwood <fredatwood AT yahoo.com>
Date: Tue, 7 Oct 2008 12:59:38 -0700 (PDT)
While returning from a class in the woods adjacent to the west campus of Flint 
Hill School in Oakton this afternoon I had a great view of a Vesper Sparrow in 
some weedy growth on the campus; I think it was only the second one I have seen 
here,  It perched right out in the open on the baseball field fence for at 
least a minute. There were also several other migrants including the first 
swamp sparrows of the fall as well as a savannah sparrow, a magnolia warbler, 
several house wrens, 3 yellow-rumped warblers, and 3 palm warblers. At the 
beginning of the class a screaming adult red-shouldered hawk soared a short 
distance above our heads, giving all of us quite a magnificent view of its tail 
bands and translucent wing spots against the deep blue sky. 

 
Alll the best
Fred

Frederick D. Atwood fredatwood AT yahoo.com
Flint Hill School, 10409 Academic Dr, Oakton, VA 22124
703-242-1675 
http://www.agpix.com/fredatwood
http://www.flinthill.org
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Subject: Recent Photos
From: Tony Coomer <a_coomer AT yahoo.com>
Date: Tue, 7 Oct 2008 08:59:23 -0700 (PDT)
http://acoomer.smugmug.com/date/2008-10-3/2008-10-7#388821242_EhEMd
 
 
I hope you enjoy them.
Thank you,
Tony Coomer
Prince William County



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Subject: Geo. Washington's Ferry Farm
From: <nasca AT gwffoundation.org>
Date: Tue, 7 Oct 2008 11:55:28 -0400
I spent a few hours this morning walking the property at George
Washington' s Ferry Farm in Stafford County.  The cold front last night
produced one of those perfect birding days we all enjoy just a few times
a year.

Highlights include:

Northern Flicker - 6+
Eastern Phoebe - 3
House Wren - 3
Golden-crowned Kinglet - 8+
Ruby-crowned Kinglet - 6+
Gray Catbird -2
Brown Thrasher -1
Tennessee Warbler - 1
Nashville Warbler - 1
Northern Parula - 2
Cape May Warbler - 3
Yellow-rumped Warbler - several flocks, with one having a partial
leucistic bird - bold white in portions of the head, nape and breast.  
Palm Warbler - 12+
American Redstart - 1 - missing its' tail feathers!
Common Yellowthroat - 1
Song Sparrow - 3
Swamp Sparrow - 3
White-throated Sparrow - 1

And, a Ruby-throated Hummingbird at the feeder outside my window as I
type this message!

Best,

Paul Nasca
Fredericksburg, VA
nasca AT gwffoundation.org
 
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Subject: Red-breasted Nuthatch - James River Park 42nd St, Richmond
From: arun.bose AT verizon.net
Date: Tue, 07 Oct 2008 07:50:27 -0500 (CDT)
A few seasonal migrants this a.m. at 42nd St. Including Red-breasted 
Nuthatch 1, Yellow-rumped Warbler 3, White-throated Sparrow 4, and 
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker 1. Also Black-throated Green Warbler 1, Common 
Yellowthroat 2, Indigo Bunting 1, and Gray Catbird 1.
Arun Bose
Richmond VA
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Subject: Red-breasted Nuthatch - James River Park 42nd St, Richmond
From: arun.bose AT verizon.net
Date: Tue, 07 Oct 2008 07:50:27 -0500 (CDT)
A few seasonal migrants this a.m. at 42nd St. Including Red-breasted 
Nuthatch 1, Yellow-rumped Warbler 3, White-throated Sparrow 4, and 
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker 1. Also Black-throated Green Warbler 1, Common 
Yellowthroat 2, Indigo Bunting 1, and Gray Catbird 1.
Arun Bose
Richmond VA
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Subject: Red-breasted Nuthatch - James River Park 42nd St, Richmond
From: arun.bose AT verizon.net
Date: Tue, 07 Oct 2008 07:50:27 -0500 (CDT)
A few seasonal migrants this a.m. at 42nd St. Including Red-breasted 
Nuthatch 1, Yellow-rumped Warbler 3, White-throated Sparrow 4, and 
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker 1. Also Black-throated Green Warbler 1, Common 
Yellowthroat 2, Indigo Bunting 1, and Gray Catbird 1.
Arun Bose
Richmond VA
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Subject: HSR: Harvey's Knob (06 Oct 2008) 9 Raptors
From: reports AT hawkcount.org
Date: 07 Oct 2008 03:10:14 -0400
Harvey's Knob
Roanoke, Virginia, USA
Daily Raptor Counts: Oct 06, 2008
-------------------------------------------------------------------

Species            Day's Count    Month Total   Season Total
------------------ ----------- -------------- --------------
Black Vulture                0              0              0
Turkey Vulture               0              0              0
Osprey                       1              6            109
Bald Eagle                   0              5             63
Northern Harrier             0              1             21
Sharp-shinned Hawk           2             44            159
Cooper's Hawk                0              8             40
Northern Goshawk             0              0              0
Red-shouldered Hawk          0              0              7
Broad-winged Hawk            0              2           6252
Red-tailed Hawk              1              9             49
Rough-legged Hawk            0              0              0
Golden Eagle                 0              0              1
American Kestrel             4             12             41
Merlin                       0              2              9
Peregrine Falcon             0              3              9
Unknown Accipiter            1              2              4
Unknown Buteo                0              0              0
Unknown Falcon               0              0              0
Unknown Eagle                0              0              0
Unknown Raptor               0              2              7

Total:                       9             96           6771
----------------------------------------------------------------------

Observation start time: 10:00:00 
Observation end   time: 15:00:00 
Total observation time: 5 hours

Official Counter:        Mike Purdy

Observers:        David Kirk, Dillard Childress

Visitors:
Dillard Childress, one of our regulars, was hiking the AT and stopped to
help spot hawks and talk about his past encounters with bears.

Way too many motorcycles on the parkway, as usual.


Weather:
Light breeze out of the NW, high, thin cloud cover diminishing
mid-afternoon. Good visibility over the valleys. Temps. low 60s.

Raptor Observations:
Few migrating raptors - the birds we observed were out to the west of the
ridge.

Non-raptor Observations:
A few migrating Blue Jays passed the overlook. Also a few Chimney Swifts
seen. An Eastern Phoebe hung around the parking lot and a Red-bellied
Woodpecker flew by.

Predictions:
A few more Kestrels and Sharpies.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Mike Purdy (MikeLPurdy AT aol.com)
Harvey's Knob Hawk Watch information may be found at:
http://bijame.googlepages.com/home


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Subject: Migrants in Gloucester
From: <hjwilliams3 AT cox.net>
Date: Mon, 6 Oct 2008 23:02:09 -0400
We had a nice sighting of migrants yesterday (Sunday). GRAY-CHEEKED THRUSH, 
EASTERN PHOEBE, BLACK-THROATED BLUE, PALM, PARULA, B & W, REDSTART, PRAIRIE and 
a lone RUBY-THROATED HUMMER. Last week we had a GOLDEN-WINGED drinking from the 
dripper and male and female COMMON YELLOWTHROATS. 


Joyce and Hayes Williams
White Marsh in Gloucester County
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Subject: hummers
From: pucksnidow AT aol.com
Date: Mon, 06 Oct 2008 22:31:41 -0400
2 female ruby throats showed up this am (10/6) hungry but fat. Did not 
see them this pm. Perhaps just traveling through
Puck Snidow
Midlothian Va.
pucksnidow AT aol.com
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Subject: saw-whet owls
From: "Kevin Shank" <birds AT naturefriendmagazine.com>
Date: Mon, 6 Oct 2008 21:45:56 -0400
This evening my son and I were back in the woods about dusk.  We were
watching some deer and I bleated at them.  To our surprise, a saw-whet owl
came to within about 10 feet of us and sat on a branch.  Another one was
calling behind/beside us not too far away.  After the owl left, I bleated
again and it came back.  Even when we were not able to see it, our
impression was that it was close behind us.  

 

That was very interesting to us-it made go pale, the turkeys we had seen two
hours previously.

 

Kevin Shank

Rockingham County

 

 

 

 

 
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Subject: HSR: Snickers Gap (06 Oct 2008) 73 Raptors
From: reports AT hawkcount.org
Date: 06 Oct 2008 20:10:26 -0400
Snickers Gap
20 Miles West of Leesburg, Virginia, USA
Daily Raptor Counts: Oct 06, 2008
-------------------------------------------------------------------

Species            Day's Count    Month Total   Season Total
------------------ ----------- -------------- --------------
Black Vulture                0              0              0
Turkey Vulture               0              0              0
Osprey                       1              7             95
Bald Eagle                   2             15             69
Northern Harrier             2              5             21
Sharp-shinned Hawk          30             82            365
Cooper's Hawk               13             22             83
Northern Goshawk             0              0              0
Red-shouldered Hawk          0              1             24
Broad-winged Hawk            0              1           5820
Red-tailed Hawk             25             39            110
Rough-legged Hawk            0              0              0
Golden Eagle                 0              0              1
American Kestrel             0              2             44
Merlin                       0              1              7
Peregrine Falcon             0              4             12
Unknown Accipiter            0              1              4
Unknown Buteo                0              3              5
Unknown Falcon               0              0              2
Unknown Eagle                0              0              0
Unknown Raptor               0              3              8

Total:                      73            186           6670
----------------------------------------------------------------------

Observation start time: 11:00:00 
Observation end   time: 16:00:00 
Total observation time: 5 hours

Official Counter:        Bob Abrams

Observers:        

Visitors:
Dave Queen


Weather:
Completely overcast to start and gradually clearing to about 10% cloud
cover. Wind WNW from 5-10 most of the day. 

Raptor Observations:
One huge immature Cooper's Hawk brought back many memories of talking
people out of immature Goshawks over the years. 

Non-raptor Observations:
Canada Geese were migrating high. One flock of 18 had an unidentified duck
with them. 9 Double-crested Cormorants.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Joan and Bob (icepeep AT aol.com)


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Subject: Shenandoah NP, Oct. 4
From: Scott Baron <brnpelican AT yahoo.com>
Date: Mon, 6 Oct 2008 14:01:02 -0700 (PDT)
Hello, birders.

I hiked parts of the Limberlost Trail and White Oak Canyon Trail on Saturday. I 
found a variety of migrants and the weather was beautiful. Hung out on the 
waterfall for a while looking for butterflies. I had one flock of migrants that 
I watched for about an hour near the intersection of the above mentioned 
trails. There must have been abundant insect prey for them to not have moved 
on. At least some birds were still there when I passed through a couple of 
hours later. Migrants: 


Red-shouldered Hawk, 1

Blue-headed Vireo, 6

Brown Creeper, 1 (1st of fall)

R.c. Kinglet, 5

Swainson's Thrush - long looks.  4 together, 1 of them singing softly.

warblers
  Tennessee, 3.  Cape May, 2.  B.t. Blue, 2.  B.t. Green, 6.  Blackpoll, 5.

Rose-br. Grosbeak, 1

Com. Grackle, flock of approx. 100

Also lots of Towhees and Juncos (apparently the local Carolina race).

Scott Baron
Fairfax, Va.


      
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Subject: Mystery Bird Revealed
From: "Roger Mayhorn" <rmayhorn AT hughes.net>
Date: Mon, 6 Oct 2008 15:48:06 -0400
Hi All,
It is the consensus of the majority that the mystery bird I posted at 
http://www.pbase.com/mayhorn/image/104000450 is a juvenile Yellow-bellied 
Sapsucker, though I must admit it does bear a striking resemblance to the 
juvenile Red-naped Sapsucker in the Sibley guide. The telling Yellow-bellied 
field marks are the dark head with a bit of red, light face markings, the long 
straight, thick bill, the barred back and the dappled underside. The white 
patch on the outer primaries is partially hidden by breast feathers. 


The juvenile Hairy Woodpecker, that some thought it was, doesn't have the 
extensive barring on the back, or the pattern on the underside. 


Here is a breakdown of the votes:

Juvenile Yellow-bellied Sapsucker  21

Juvenile Hairy Woodpecker  5

Juvenile Red-naped Sapsucker 1

Arizona (Strickland's) Woodpecker 1

Thanks to everyone who participated and to those who guessed but didn't send it 
in. You just proved what I have been saying," You guys know your birds." 


Roger Mayhorn
Compton Mountain (near Grundy)
Buchanan County_______________________________________________
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Subject: Huntley Meadows Monday Morning Birdwalk
From: "Harry & Melitta Glasgow" <aglasgow AT cox.net>
Date: Mon, 6 Oct 2008 15:21:53 -0400
This morning's Huntley Meadows Monday Morning Birdwalk attracted 14 birders who 
spotted 36 species. There were few highlights, but the subtle shift in seasons 
is observable. Birds not seen over the summer are turning up - 10 Yellow-rumped 
Warblers were seen; a Wilson's Snipe; and a couple of Ruby-crowned Kinglets 
made their appearance. Birders this weekend reported Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers 
at Huntley, although we didn't see any today. We are anticipating the arrival 
of our winter populations of Creepers, Juncos, and White-throated Sparrows, as 
well as all the ducks. 


Canada Goose 20
Wood Duck 1
Mallard 3
Cooper's Hawk 1
Red-shouldered Hawk 1
Wilson's Snipe 1
Rock Pigeon 25
Mourning Dove 3
Red-Bellied Woodpecker 7
Downy Woodpecker 2
Northern Flicker 12
Pileated Woodpecker 1
Eastern Phoebe 1
Blue Jay 12
American Crow 4
Fish Crow 4
Carolina Chickadee 8
Tufted Titmouse 10
White-breasted Nuthatch 3
Carolina Wren 10
House Wren 1
Ruby-crowned Kinglet 2
Eastern Bluebird 8
American Robin 8
Gray Catbird 9
Brown Thrasher 1
Yellow-rumped Warbler 10
Palm Warbler 4
Common Yellowthroat 8
Eastern Towhee 2
Song Sparrow 4
Northern Cardinal 12
Indigo Bunting 3
Red-winged Blackbird 150
Common Grackle 2
American Goldfinch 12

The Monday Morning birdwalk has been a weekly event at Huntley Meadows since 
1985. It takes place every week, rain or shine, at 7 AM, is free of charge, 
requires no reservation, and is open to all. Birders meet in the parking lot at 
the Park's entrance at 3701 Lockheed Blvd, Alexandria, VA. For questions call 
the Park during normal business hours at (703) 768-2525. 



Harry Glasgow
Friends of Huntley Meadows Park
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Subject: Kiptopeke banding:2 Bicknell's Thrushes, Blackpolls, and Mosquitoes
From: Jethrorunco AT aol.com
Date: Mon, 6 Oct 2008 14:46:44 EDT
Howdy all,

First off, I forgot to mention on yesterdays post that we  recaptured an 
EASTERN SCREECH-OWL yesterday morning. Not the same bird from  earlier this 
season. I think it might be one that was banded from the Saw-whet Owl project 
here, 

run by the Center for Conservation Biology. 

Anyway,  today was much better than I had expected. We ended the day with 69 
birds, of  which only 15 were GRAY CATBIRDS! It was a nice mix of birds today 
that  included, not one, but two BICKNELL'S THRUSHES!
We also had 2 BLACKPOLLS  today as well. Seemingly a good year for them here. 
Although most were expected  birds, it was unexpected to have as many or the 
diversity. We also had our first  EASTERN TOWHEE today as well.

As for tomorrow...Great cold front coming,  but I am afraid it is going to be 
a bit too windy. I do hope that is not the  case, but it doesn't look real 
good. I am sure we will get a few nets open, but I would love to have them ALL 

open!

Side note: I  dislike mosquitoes. Must of had a big hatch last night. 
 
Totals for the day 10/6:

American  Redstart                      7
Northern  Parula                          3
Magnolia  Warbler                       1
Black-throated Blue Warbler      14
Palm  Warbler                             1                     (yellow race)
Common  Yellowthroat                 5
Blackpoll  Warbler                        2
Yellow-rumped  Warbler               5
Black-and-white  Warbler              1
Ovenbird                                    2                   nice little 
warbler day!
Yellow-bellied  Flycatcher              1
Ruby-crowned  Kinglet                   1
House  Wren                                2
Indigo Bunting                             2
Swainson's  Thrush                       1
Veery                                        2
Bicknell's  Thrush                         2                   Great day!
Gray-cheeked  Thrush                 1
Eastern  Towhee                         1                  first of the season
Gray  Catbird                              15
Northern  Mockingbird                   1
TOTAL-------------------------------------  69
 
Cheers,
Jethro Runco
Coastal Virginia Wildlife Observatory 



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Subject: Late Ruby Throat
From: Jim Bernat <JBernat AT rrcsb.org>
Date: Mon, 6 Oct 2008 13:11:36 -0400
We were visited by a late Ruby Throated Humming Bird on October 5 in
Madison County



Jim Bernat

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Subject: Northern Neck merlin, sapsucker, warblers, white-crowned sparrow
From: Frederick Atwood <fredatwood AT yahoo.com>
Date: Mon, 6 Oct 2008 05:50:05 -0700 (PDT)




Oct 5.   A few notes follow the list: 
 
 
Canada Goose

 
 
 
228 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Wood Duck
85 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Ring-necked Duck
2  King George







Wild Turkey
2 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Northern Bobwhite
9 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Double-crested Cormorant
2 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Great Blue Heron
18 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Black Vulture
1 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Turkey Vulture
22 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Bald Eagle
21 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Northern Harrier
1 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Red-shouldered Hawk
3 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Red-tailed Hawk
3 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

American Kestrel
8 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Merlin
1 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Killdeer
11 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Wilson's Snipe
2 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Laughing Gull
19 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Ring-billed Gull
21 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Herring Gull
8 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Forster's Tern
6 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Rock Pigeon
9 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Mourning Dove
248 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Yellow-billed Cuckoo
2 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Great Horned Owl
1 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Barred Owl
1 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Chimney Swift
2 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Belted Kingfisher
2 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Red-bellied Woodpecker
25 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker
1 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Downy Woodpecker
16 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Hairy Woodpecker
5 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Northern Flicker
43 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Pileated Woodpecker
6 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Eastern Phoebe
16 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Red-eyed Vireo
1 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Blue Jay
43 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

American Crow
35 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Carolina Chickadee
33 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Tufted Titmouse
37 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

White-breasted Nuthatch
4 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Carolina Wren
65 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

House Wren
1 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Eastern Bluebird
32 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

American Robin
2 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Gray Catbird
12 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Northern Mockingbird
17 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Brown Thrasher
6 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

European Starling
70 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Cedar Waxwing
3 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Nashville Warbler
1 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Northern Parula
3 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Magnolia Warbler
1 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Cape May Warbler
2 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Yellow-rumped Warbler
14 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Pine Warbler
24 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Palm Warbler
3 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Blackpoll Warbler
4 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Black-and-white Warbler
2 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Ovenbird
1 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Northern Waterthrush
1 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Common Yellowthroat
25 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Eastern Towhee
1 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Chipping Sparrow
58 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Field Sparrow
23 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Savannah Sparrow
27 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Grasshopper Sparrow
4 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Song Sparrow
1 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

White-crowned Sparrow
1 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Northern Cardinal
54 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Blue Grosbeak
1 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Indigo Bunting
6 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Red-winged Blackbird
810 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

Eastern Meadowlark
30 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

House Finch
14 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

American Goldfinch
68 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 

House Sparrow
1 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
-- 
77 species.
I started at King George Ponds along route 3. The ponds were invisible in the 
thick fog so I did not stay long.  There were two Ring-necked Ducks there.  

Then I went to Toby's Pt and WIlmont Rd in King George.  A merlin was perched 
on top of a dead snag across the river and a yellow-bellied sapsucker was on a 
tree in the parking lot. There was a good number of beautifully-singing 
meadowlarks, 3 grasshopper sparrows, several savannah sparrows and 5 kestrels 
along WIlmont Rd.  

>From there I went to Washington's Birthplace in Westmoreland Co where I found 
the Nashville Warbler in the thicket near the beach and the Cape May in the 
cedars along the road near the burial site.  I savored every second watching 
the Nashville as he searched for bugs among the marsh elder blossoms since I 
hadn't seen one this well in several years. 

On the way to Leedstown along WInter Harbor Rd there was a dead deer off to the 
side in field.  On the carcass and on the ground and trees nearby there were 15 
black vultures, 4 turkey vultures, and 14 immature and 4 adult bald eagles. 

In Leedstown there were a lot of mourning doves amd goldfinches in a field of 
planted sunflowers,  a northern waterthrush, another Cape May, a harrier, a 
covey of quail, 2 turkeys (the last two of a flock?) running from a field into 
the woods, one blue grosbeak, a few indigo buntings, and several field 
sparrows.  The immature white-crowned sparrow (first of the season) was in a 
place where I do not generally see this species, with a flock of chipping 
sparrows near Peedee Creek. Great views of parula and ovenbird (maybe my last 
of the season?). At my muck-pond on Peedee Creek it was great listening to the 
squeals of the wood ducks and catching an occasional glimpse of them back in 
the alder swamp. 69 wood ducks flew over Mothershead (RapRivValNWR) in small 
groups 2-24 towards Troy Creek after sundown; I wonder if they spend the night 
in the beaver ponds of Troy Creek. This is the opposite direction from the way 
they used to fly after sundown. 

Pine warblers and yellowthroats were very common but other warblers were hard 
to find; still a respectable total of 12 warbler species. The first of the 
yellow-rumpeds have arrived.  Notable absence of mallard, great egret, 
swallows, and tanagers. Only one song sparrow all day and no swamp or 
white-throated sparrows.  Soon there wil be scores. 

 
All the best
I hope you have a great week
Fred

Frederick D. Atwood fredatwood AT yahoo.com
Flint Hill School, 10409 Academic Dr, Oakton, VA 22124
703-242-1675 
http://www.agpix.com/fredatwood
http://www.flinthill.org
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Subject: HSR: Rockfish Gap Hawk Watch (05 Oct 2008) 83 Raptors
From: reports AT hawkcount.org
Date: 06 Oct 2008 09:10:41 -0400
Rockfish Gap Hawk Watch
Waynesboro, Virginia, USA
Daily Raptor Counts: Oct 05, 2008
-------------------------------------------------------------------

Species            Day's Count    Month Total   Season Total
------------------ ----------- -------------- --------------
Black Vulture                0              0              0
Turkey Vulture               0              0              0
Osprey                       2             12            132
Bald Eagle                   0              2             33
Northern Harrier             0              4             23
Sharp-shinned Hawk          66            184            508
Cooper's Hawk                5             19             74
Northern Goshawk             0              0              1
Red-shouldered Hawk          0              0              1
Broad-winged Hawk            4              7          14436
Red-tailed Hawk              3              9             32
Rough-legged Hawk            0              0              0
Golden Eagle                 0              0              1
American Kestrel             3             15             84
Merlin                       0              1              4
Peregrine Falcon             0              5             15
Unknown Accipiter            0              1              1
Unknown Buteo                0              0              2
Unknown Falcon               0              0              0
Unknown Eagle                0              0              0
Unknown Raptor               0              0              6
Mississippi Kite             0              0              1

Total:                      83            259          15354
----------------------------------------------------------------------

Observation start time: 08:00:00 
Observation end   time: 15:00:00 
Total observation time: 7 hours

Official Counter:        Multiple Counters

Observers:        Brenda Tekin, Mark Johnson, Vic Laubach

Visitors:
Cindy and Charlie Brook; John & Elizabeth Howard,
and Mark Johnson from Madison Heights.


Weather:
Another great fall day to be outdoors enjoying warm sunshine with virtually
NO clouds and bright blue skies.  Westerly winds in the morning clocked at
4 diminishing to 3 on the Beaufort wind scale seemed to motivate the bulk
of today's Sharp-shinned flight between 9-11 a.m. EST.  Winds diminished to
1 to 2 and more southerly.  A few clouds were rumored to be about and the
bright blue skies made it difficult to find the few high sailing birds by
the afternoon.  
Temp:  17.5>23.5c;
Humidity: 63% dropping to a low of 39%;
Bar.Pressure: steady at 1017;
clear visibility for miles.

Raptor Observations:
Bulk of birds were between 9-11 a.m. EST.  In the afternoon several birds
were found flying high overhead and some coming in low to the north that
found thermals over the interstate and would begin slow upward spiral
before sailing southward.

Non-raptor Observations:
Pileated Woodpecker, Chimney Swifts continue to move through in small
numbers; Red-headed Woodpecker, Common Raven(at least 4)

Predictions:
more of the same although possibly a few more clouds with an approaching
cold front.
========================================================================
Report submitted by Brenda Tekin (bt8x AT virginia.edu)
Rockfish Gap Hawk Watch, VA information may be found at:
http://home.ntelos.net/~btkin/rockfish_gap_hawk_watch
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Subject: Warbler on my deck (Botetourt Co.) Oct. 4
From: "Nancy Young" <nanjyoung AT juno.com>
Date: Sun, 5 Oct 2008 23:59:25 -0400
On Saturday I had a nice surprise.  A Black-Throated Green Warbler landed on
my deck rail.  I have seen very few warblers and had to look this one up.  I
had checked a few days before because I thought I had seen one near the
woods.  This confirmed it.  The bold yellow stripes on the face and the
white wing-bars were quite distinctive.  A beautiful bird though it didn't
appear very green!  

 

Later, as I was going out the front door, I heard a Red-shouldered Hawk
calling loudly.  It took me a while to find him as the sky was bright and
blue and the sun was in my eyes.  I finally caught a glimpse of him circling
until he disappeared into the sun.  When I looked up again he was flying low
over the house with wings back looking like he was going to land in a tree.
But when I looked out back I couldn't find him (or her?)

 

While I was trying to see the hawk, I heard what sounded like a Mockingbird
only he wasn't repeating any of the phrases.  The song was even more melodic
than usual.  I finally found him near the top of the Hemlock and it was
definitely a Mockingbird.  How odd!  I heard him again today.  

 

Yard birds on Saturday

 

Red-shouldered Hawk   1

Mourning Dove   4

RT Hummer   1 Female

Chimney Swifts   6 (or more)

Red-bellied WP   1

Downy WP   1

Blue Jay   1

A. Crow   1

C. Chickadee   2

T. Titmouse   2

WB Nuthatch   1

C. Wren   1

Black-throated Green Warbler   1

Robin   1

Mockingbird   1

Cardinal   1

House Finch   6

Goldfinch   2

House Sparrow   2

 

Nancy Young

Blue Ridge, Botetourt County

 

 

 

 

 
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Subject: Mason Neck Field Trip, Frfx Co, Oct 5, 2008
From: "Kurt Gaskill" <KurtCapt87 AT verizon.net>
Date: Sun, 05 Oct 2008 22:12:55 -0500
VA BIRDers,

 

Fog greatly dampened the birding at Mason Neck this morning with very few
migrants found for the 14 people who participated.  Top bird was a
Connecticut Warbler, found by Peter and Molly Ross but unfortunately missed
by others (who were elsewhere in the phase 2 field area).  Access was kindly
granted by Mason Neck SP and NWR through prior arrangements.

 

Dawn seemed to be starting out well with Gray-cheeked (1), Swainson's (4),
Wood Thrush (1) and Bobolink (3) heard by 6am.  This was about when the fog
rolled in from the NW and night calls ended.  We started birding near 645am
at the SP phase 2 area but nothing seemed to be moving although we found a
very bright Yellow-breasted Chat.  We found a few other birds here and there
and the fog lifted at about 845am and a small flurry of activity occurred
and then subsided.  Despite our efforts, little else was found.  We broke
for the rookery/heronry area at about 1045 to view the nests and on the way
added a Brown Creeper and 2 Blackpolls to the list but nothing else beyond
resident species.  On the way out, we were treated to a wonderful kettle of
Bald Eagles of 14 strong.  The trip netted over 60 species and the list of
notables is given below.

 

Kurt Gaskill

 

Wood Duck 40

Am. Black Duck 4

Bald Eagle 17

Red-shouldered Hawk 1

Caspian Tern 1

YB Cuckoo 1

Barred Owl 2

Chimney Swift 12

Belted Kingfisher 1

E. Phoebe 5

Great Crested Flycatcher 1

Red-eyed V 1

Brown Creeper 1

House Wren 1

RC Kinglet 2

E. Bluebird 8

Veery 1

Gray-cheeked Thrush 1

Swainson's Thrush 4

Wood Thrush 1

Gray Catbird 7

Brown Thrasher 1

Cedar Waxwing 20

Nashville 1

Magnolia 4

Yellow-rumped 2

Palm 6

Blackpoll 2

baypoll sp 2

Black & White 1

Am. Redstart 2

Com. Yellowthroat 3

YB Chat 1

Scarlet Tanager 1

Song Sp 3

Indigo Bunting 6

Rusty Blackbird 2

 
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Subject: FW: Dyke/post to va bird
From: "Kurt Gaskill" <KurtCapt87 AT verizon.net>
Date: Sun, 05 Oct 2008 21:51:03 -0500
Here is a note from Rich Rieger on this morning's Dyke Marsh Field Trip,
sponsored the Friends of Dyke Marsh.



Very nice morning at Dyke Marsh, Alexandria, today.  Slight chill in  
the air and dew on the ground. Good turnout with ten observers and  
myself. Ray Smith had the ducks scoped out when we started in the  
picnic area - showing us Am. Wigeon, Shovelers, and Ruddy Ducks.  PB  
Grebes were present as well as one LEsser Scaup.
An adult Bald Eagle got the  gulls riled up a few times and Caspian  
Terns were diving here and there.  A passing Coopers Hawk was scolded  
by a RB Gull.

On to the Marina area where we found one Palm Warbler and then watched  
two YB Cuckoos flit about in the Sycamore trees near the boat launch  
ramp.  7 Am Coots paddled about the dock area.  Seems like the  
waterfowl diversity is increasing w. more vegetation in evidence -  
will be interesting to see what January brings.

One lone fall Blackpoll Warbler was found at the beginning of Haul  
Road and the stroll out to the boardwalk yielded most of the usual  
suspects.   A possible No. Harrier flew in to the island opposite the  
last platform as we tallied the morning list and a lone Osprey  
circled, working it's way south. We were treated to another Cooper's  
Hawk flyby just as we started our return trek.

The Dyke Marsh walk happens every Sunday - 8am - starts near the south  
parking lot - free and open to all...list follows

Rich Rieger

C. Goose -      400 
Am Wigeon -         3
Mallard -        200
No. Shoveler -      3
Lesser Scaup -      1

Ruddy Duck -        6
PB Grebe -            14
DC Corm.    -     20
GB Heron    -          8
great Egret -         45

Osprey              1
Bald Eagle          1
No. Harrier                1 (possible)
Coopers Hawk        2
Am  Coot            7

Killdeer                     11
Laughing Gull --     no count
RB Gull           no count
Great BBack gull    no count
Caspian Tern            4

Rock Pigeon             7
Mo Dove                   15
YB Cuckoo                2
Rbellied WP              2
Downy WP                3

No Flicker                 1
Blue Jay                    17
Am Crow                  3
Fish Crow                 5
Car. Chick                4

Tufted Titmouse      2
WB Nuthatch           1
Car. Wren                 5
Am robin                  18
CAtbird                      2

No Mockingbird       1
Starling                    20
Palm Warb               1
Blackpoll Warb        1
Field Sparrow           1

Song Sparrow         1
No Cardinal             5
RW Blackbird         10
C. Grackle                6
House finch             3

Am Goldfinch           3
House Sparrow     15


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