For about five years I have traveled regular routes through western Warren
County and eastern Coffee County. I found sites for seven Shrikes,
including three pairs. I have continued to travel these routes, but have
not seen any Shrikes at any of these locations since September 2018.
Habitat has remained the same. I find this very troubling.
On another note, Mac and I have lived in our current home for five years.
It is on a large heavily wooded lot in a heavily wooded subdivision in
Warren County away from town. Our home is 100 yards from a large creek. And
we have essentially no warblers! Haven't in the five years we've been here.
This spring I can count on one hand the number of warblers we have seen in
our neighborhood. And please note I said warblers, as in individual birds,
not just species! A big contrast to when we lived in the middle of Memphis
and I had a case of warbler neck for a month every spring from looking at
all the warblers in our yard.
Am curious as to whether anyone else has experienced either of these
situations.
Susan McWhirter
McMinnville, TN
