VA BIRDers,
Well, a week has gone by and lots of International Migratory Bird Day reports
filled the ether. Similar to last week, I compiled a list of them. It is my
intention to post the results of these efforts in the near future, once some
additional details are obtained. But, first, a little info on last week's
efforts.
Last week, several people kindly sent me info on some birds that I noted were
not reported. Based upon that information, plus knowing that some unseen
birds are nesting reliably in the area, I found that 164 species were
present. In addition to that group, there are probably 5 or 6 species not
reported that were likely present. I suppose that means one could claim that
170 species (give or take a couple) were in the No. VA area last Saturday.
This Saturday, the compiled list starts off at 156 species. And, there were
many species not reported (at least as of this writing) that could have been
present. I list them here so that the readers who may have observed these
species can write to me with this useful information.
Common Loon, a bit late for them but not without precedence
Snowy Egret or Little Blue, tough birds for May but possible
Black-crowned and Yellow-crowned Night-Herons, geez, surely these are around?
Blue-winged Teal, a toughy but potentially possible
Canvasback, since the Dyke bird was Sunday and this bird was likely seen last
Saturday, I suspect it was around. Did anyone see it Saturday?
Bufflehead, ditto
Hooded Merganser, this bird has merganserlettes at Huntley, surely someone
saw these?
Sharp-shinned Hawk, an incredible miss given the talent out there last
Saturday (and even last Sunday) but maybe these birds are simply gone!
Ruffed Grouse, a toughy anytime of the year
rails anyone? are the rails late or did they pass by No. VA this year?
Am. Coot, surely someone saw this species at Dyke last Saturday!
Semipalmated Sandpiper or other sandpiper?
Am. Woodcock, I am sure there are some birds out there, anyone see/hear any?
Laughing Gull, usually migrates in the clouds in the spring, not always easy
to find
Caspian Tern or Forster's Tern, I gotta believe someone saw one of these
Common Nighthawk, ditto
Loggerhead Shrike, maybe that are not around this spring?
Cliff Swallow, surely this was spotted!
Red-breasted Nuthatch, a stretch but maybe...
Marsh Wren, surely someone heard one at Dyke Saturday?
Golden-winged Warbler, rumours have been floated - did anyone see one?
Well, thats about it! I hope to write in a few days with the final results
comparing the two Saturdays. Thank you to everyone for all your help!
Kurt Gaskill
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