FreeLists / tn-bird / [TN-Bird] Pits Parade

[OLCOOT1@xxxxxxx]

July 17, 2003
Ensley Bottoms
Shelby Co. TN
A quick trip, on Thursday to the pits, revealed still big numbers of Least 
Sandpipers which will only continue to grow. One concentrated group of highly 
colored adults was a very nice study. Only the shape and condition of their 
feathers belied their adult status. They were concentrated in one area and were 
evidently a new group. There are a few bright adults sprinkled about in the 
variable plumage's to be seen there now. 

Another surprise was a very mixed up Semipalmated Sandpiper, it was worn and 
ragged but had completed molting almost all its back feathers into basic 
plumage. A first summer bird is the most likely explanation and pretty well 
supported by the extensively frayed and ragged tertials. The Western Sandpipers 
present are well along in molt as is expected.

Pectoral numbers were down but after this first surge they will come in big 
time in a couple of weeks. Two Semipalmated Plovers were nice new comers. The 
Black-necked Stilt nest that was almost taken by rising water was occupied by a 
panting female. A very young Mississippi Kite tested its wings over the birds 
and kept everyone antsy.

Since there is no clean water bathing areas in the pits at this time the 
"Wind Birds" are bathing at TVA Lake. Hopefully some areas will fill with rain 
water so I can sit in one place and watch the turn over up close. 

I only saw one young Western Kingbird and no adults on this short run around. 


Good Birding!!!

Jeff R. Wilson
OL' COOT / TLBA
Bartlett Tenn.


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