FreeLists / va-bird / [va-bird] American bittern/Dyke Marsh

["kayneer#capitolisp.com" <kayneer@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

While rowing out of Belle Haven marina on May 31, I saw what I think was
an American bittern. I was about 12' away. The bird had a long yellow
bill, yellow legs and feet and a streaked breast. The bill was pointing
skyward, and the bird was well camouflaged against the reeds. This was
seen on the water's edge on the first "spoils" island  as you leave the
marina, as the gut turns the corner. Since my boat was still, I had 3-4
minutes to study the bird; it was actually reaching for Peterson's that
scared it off.  Also saw, on the western edge of the marina cove, at
least 23 maturing goslings (seemed like 2 age groups) and four adult
Canadas showering and preening. Three or four weeks ago, in same place,
saw about same number of younger goslings with two adults. Have photos
of both groups.
Reptile report: two Northern water snakes. For what it all may be worth.

       novice Kay Neer

You are subscribed to VA-BIRD. To post to this mailing list, simply send email 
to va-bird@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx To unsubscribe, send email to
va-bird-request@xxxxxxxxxxxxx with 'unsubscribe' in the Subject field.