My apologies for posting this message to Bird Kentucky. However, I think that at one time or another, even those of us who aren't residents of Jefferson County occasionally bird here when in the area. Louisville Metro government has an online survey seeking input on improvements to the River Road corridor that links downtown Louisville with Prospect, Kentucky. As birders, here is an opportunity to provide your two cents on whether or not the future plans for the River Road corridor should include wildlife and habitat protection. The survey is available at the link below: http://www.louisvilleky.gov/PublicWorks/Engineering/completestreets/river_road.htm Yesterday, I was driving along River Road in downtown Louisville where it passes under the Second Street Bridge just prior to the on-ramp to I-64 East. As I was driving through the intersection, I noticed a female Mallard with six ducklings attempting to cross the street. From the river to the grassy area she was attempting to reach, she and her ducklings had to cross five lanes of traffic. Since I wasn't in the position to stop, I circled the block and returned to the intersection. Fortunately, mom and babies made it across safely. At least that time they did. Last, but not least, I paddled Elkhorn Creek on July 18, and observed a Red-headed Woodpecker, a life bird for me. (I've only been keeping a list for 13 months now.) A nice consolation prize since I missed the Red-cockaded Woodpecker on a recent trip to North Carolina. Good birding, Rod Botkins Jefferson Co. ************************************************************************************** "Now I see the secret of the making of the best persons. It is to grow in the open air and to eat and sleep with the earth." Walt Whitman, Song of the Open Road **************************************************************************************