FreeLists / bristol-birds / [Bristol-Birds] Holston Mtn. Sunday

["Michelle Brown" <mbrown@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

I finally got out for a first of season ride with my dad on Sunday.  The 
weather was cool but refreshing to both my soul and my horses spirit.  We have 
two trail dogs that go along for the ride.  In fact they know so well the 
meaning of the large white box on wheels hooked to the truck that they make 
every effort to remind us that they are planning to join us.  Incessant 
whining, barking and yapping much like that of a coyote.  

We stayed close to home with a short drive to Holston Mtn. in Sullivan County.  
We chose Camp Tom Howard as our destination(off of 421 above the lake).  Just 
about a 1/4 of a mile after you enter Camp Tom Howard there is a road to the 
right called Sharps Ferry.  Just beyond this road we flushed a pair of 
Broad-Winged Hawks.  They were sitting together on a branch over the road.  As 
we drove toward them they flew into the woods and joined up again on a low 
branch.  We got very good looks before they flew off calling repeatedly to one 
another.  

Our trail dogs flushed one turkey on forest service road 87B.  Fortunately they 
did so before we were on top of it with the horses.  Large flapping noisy birds 
do not mix well with giant flighty four legged chickens!

Also saw several Dark-eyed Juncos.  They are always interested in us and come 
in close for good looks.  Heard Pileated Woodpeckers, Downy Woodpeckers, 
Solitary Vireos, Black-Throated Blue Warblers and a few I could not identify.  
Must remember to carry binocs!!!

Good company, a good mount and a beautiful place to visit make for a wonderful 
afternoon.  

May many more follow!
Michelle King
Blountville, TN
Sullivan County