I observed 38 species of birds at Yuchi Wildlife Refuge in Rhea County today. Adding other species seen at home in Birchwood (Hamilton County) and on the way to and from Yuchi, I had a total of 51 species. At Yuchi, I really didn't get into any of the woodland habitats, so the totals could have been much higher. I saw over 25 shorebirds of at least 4 species at YWR. I don't know shorebirds well and didn't have a spotting scope with me, which might have helped with identification. The shorebirds were in two large flooded areas in corn fields between the gazebo and the Tennessee River. In addition I saw 2 adult bald eagles, a summer tanager, several yellow-breasted chats, numerous indigo buntings, 1 green heron, 1 red-headed woodpecker, and I heard a couple of yellow-billed cuckoos. I've been told to watch for Northern parula and prothonotary warblers, but I've never been able to locate either. Not knowing bird songs well is a great handicap! I heard several songs that I couldn't identify. Charles Murray Birchwood, TN