[TN-Bird] North Wind = New Arrivals

July 27, 2005
Ensley Bottoms
Shelby Co. TN
 
The wind switched around out of the north for the first time in a  while and 
should have brought more Wind Birds. An after work quick trip was in  order. 
Almost the first thing I saw was a distant pale bird quickly pick  feeding 
across the flat. It was unmistakably the most terrestrial of the  phalaropes 
and 
closer looks revealed an immature Wilson's, small enough to be a  male. 
Unusual, a young bird rather than an adult for a first of season  fall bird. 
They 
always amaze me with how easily they can pick a fly right out of  the air with 
their long, needle like bill.
 
There were new birds spread around in areas that on the weekend held  none. 
Twelve Stilt Sandpipers in ragged attire and 9 Lesser Yellowlegs represent  big 
jumps over what was present this weekend. Solitary and  Spotted Sandpiper 
numbers were also up. We still need water but this front  promises none.
 
On a down note, the Yellow-crown Night-Heron found mired up on Sunday, lay  
out on the island, the only movement was wind blown feathers; the sludge had  
claimed another hapless victim. The bottom of these pools must look like  the 
LeBrea tar pits.  

Good  Birding!!!

Jeff R. Wilson
OL'COOT / TLBA
Bartlett,  TN

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