[va-richmond-general] Fisherman Island and points North October 25 & 26 2008

15.5 birders turned out for our annual October trip to Fisherman Island and were happy to see the In-accu-weather forecast. Calm breezes, warm temps and frequent looks at the sun made for another great day on this slice of heaven on the Chesapeake. Led by our favorite Naturalists George and Jennie Budd and new guide Jack Collier; we had a day not just of birds but of autumn changes, sea creatures and the rejuvenation of walking along the shore. Yellow-rumps did not fail to disappoint us nor did a good showing of Tree Swallows. An unexpected sighting of an Immature Red-headed Woodpecker was so...unexpected. Many raptors perched and soared and foraged and challenged our ID skills-most impressively a Peregrine Falcon and Merlin and a good showing of Bald Eagles all weekend. Gannets glided over the surf and a Black Scoter bobbed along the waves as well as Brown Pelicans. Many of us stayed over night at Kiptopeke and found sev eral n ew bird species on Sunday-most notably a Snow Bunting, Yellow-crowned Night Heron, Red-Breasted Nuthatch, Common Loon and Northern Harrier.
 
Never a bad day on the Eastern Shore-thanks to all who turned out and huge thanks to the folks at the ESNWR for allowing us the continued privilege to visit the pristine habitat of Fisherman Island.
 
Julie Kacmarcik
Richmond Audubon
 

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