MD Birding List

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Recent Postings from
MD Birding List

Updated on Thursday, May 23 at 03:20 PM EST
The most recently received Mail is at the top.

23 May Black Rail - Howard County [Joe Hanfman ]
23 May Re: Patapsco-Henryton Cerulean [Linda Just ]
23 May Rock Creek Park, Thursday 5/23/13 [Wallace Kornack ]
23 May Re: CERULEAN WARBLERS Allegany County [Jim Deren ]
23 May RE: Patapsco-Henryton Cerulean [Timothy Houghton ]
23 May Whimbrel alert [Harry Armistead ]
23 May Re: Patapsco-Henryton Cerulean ["George M. Jett" ]
23 May Re: Patapsco-Henryton Cerulean [world oceans ]
23 May Re: Patapsco-Henryton Cerulean [Bill Hubick ]
23 May Patapsco-Henryton Cerulean [Russ Ruffing ]
23 May Fort Smallwood Park Hawkwatch Wednesday, May 22, 2013 []
23 May Re: Western Kingbird sighting-CCBC campus,Catonsville MD [Wendy Alexander ]
22 May Western Kingbird sighting-CCBC campus,Catonsville MD [Wendy Alexander ]
22 May Fw: eBird Report - Rachel Carson Park, May 22, 2013 [diane Ford ]
22 May Great Falls Eagles: Big and Active [Donald Sweig ]
22 May Great Falls Eagles: Big and Active [Donald Sweig ]
22 May Wyman Park highlights, 5/22/13 [Lynne Parks ]
22 May 91st Dorchester County May bird count (in fll), May 4, 2013 [Harry Armistead ]
22 May Dickcissels in Carroll Co. [Bob Ringler ]
22 May RE: Looking for a Golden Plover [Jeffery Davis ]
22 May Re: Looking for a Golden Plover [Edward Boyd ]
22 May Re: Around DC - Dunlin, Wilow Flycatchers [Scott Loss ]
22 May Around DC - Dunlin, Wilow Flycatchers [Scott Loss ]
22 May Looking for a Golden Plover [Joan at Google ]
22 May Rock Creek Park, Wednesday 5/22/13 [Wallace Kornack ]
22 May Re: OT: My favorite Maryland bird (still) [Janet Millenson ]
22 May Re: OT: My favorite Maryland bird (still) [Jason Berry ]
22 May Documenting your favorite birding locations over time.... [Sam Droege ]
22 May OT: My favorite Maryland bird (still) [Janet Millenson ]
22 May Ferry Neck & Dorchester County, May 17-20, 2013 [Harry Armistead ]
22 May Caroline County Tuesday birding - Part 3 [jim green ]
22 May Fwd: DC Area, 5/21/2013 []
21 May Caroline County - Part II [jim green ]
22 May Fort Smallwood Park Hawkwatch Tuesday, May 21, 2013 Ten Mississippi Kites []
21 May Slightly OT: Garrett/Allegany Boundary []
21 May Caroline and a little bit of Talbot Counties - 5/21 [jim green ]
21 May Request for Carroll County birding sites []
21 May Poplar Island - 5/21/13 [PETER OSENTON ]
21 May Recent Photos - Wilson's Phalarope, Seaside & Grasshopper Sparrows, Whimbrel, etc [mike burchett ]
21 May RE: Shorebirds, Red Knots? ["Neil Rothschild" ]
21 May dunlin, least sp at Jeff memorial ["Beard, Jim (VMNH)" ]
21 May Shorebirds, Red Knots? [Philip Brody ]
21 May Re: Ol' 95 (Red Knot). ["Mike Hudson" ]
21 May 92nd Dorchester May bird count (in full), May 11, 2013 [Harry Armistead ]
21 May Dunlin at Jefferson Memorial [Jim Felley ]
21 May Re: Miss Kites - Fort Smallwood [Nancy Magnusson ]
21 May Miss Kites - Fort Smallwood [Nancy Magnusson ]
21 May Rock Creek Park, 5/21/13 [Wallace Kornack ]
21 May Yard migrants today [Warblerick ]
21 May Milford Mill [Leslie Starr ]
21 May Fwd: Poplar Island Sightings for 9 May 2013 [Les Roslund ]
21 May Re: RFI: Re: Susquehanna SP [Sean Stewart ]
21 May Prince George's County Big Day, 5/19 [Robert Ostrowski ]
21 May Re: Fort Smallwood Bird [Hugh Vandervoort ]
21 May Fort Smallwood Bird [Dean Mahlstedt ]
21 May Fort Smallwood Park Hawkwatch Monday, May 20, 2013 Two Mississippi Kites []
20 May C&O Canal: Great Falls [Donald Sweig ]
20 May Re: Hart-Miller Island, 05/20/13 [Kevin Graff ]
20 May Hart-Miller Island, 05/20/13 [Kevin Graff ]
20 May Re: Interesting Loon Encounter near Violette's Lock [Tony Heatwole ]
20 May Ol' 95 (Red Knot). [Paul Noell ]
20 May RFI: Re: Susquehanna SP [Benjamin DeHaven ]
20 May Olive-sided Flycatcher [Warblerick ]
20 May Re: Interesting Loon Encounter near Violette's Lock [Rick Borchelt ]
20 May Re: Interesting Loon Encounter near Violette's Lock [Hugh Vandervoort ]
20 May Wheaton Regional Park and a bit of Brookside today ["Gail B. Mackiernan %3Ckatahdinss%40comcast.net%3E" ]
20 May Rock Creek Park, Monday 5/20/13 [Wallace Kornack ]
20 May Rohrersville 5.18-19.13 [Frank Boyle ]
20 May Re: Interesting Loon Encounter near Violette's Lock [Paul Noell ]
20 May Re: Interesting Loon Encounter near Violette's Lock [Christine Huffman ]
20 May Re: Re: Best non-avain yard sighting of the day [Leslie Starr ]
20 May Re: Interesting Loon Encounter near Violette's Lock [Bob Ringler ]
20 May Re: Interesting Loon Encounter near Violette's Lock ["Steve Long" ]
20 May Re: Re: Best non-avain yard sighting of the day [Edward Boyd ]
19 May Re: Sandhill Crane in Harford County [jflowers ]
19 May C&O Riley's Lock to Blockhouse Point - Sunday pm [Dave Roberts ]

Subject: Black Rail - Howard County
From: Joe Hanfman <auk1844 AT gmail.com>
Date: Thu, 23 May 2013 16:05:46 -0400

On Saturday, 5/18 we found a Black Rail in Howard County. This was a first record for Howard County. It called constantly in the middle of the day for at least 15 minutes. Unfortunately, when we tried to get another group on it, it remained silent and was not heard or seen again. Then there was a rain storm and the rail was never relocated. We tried again Sunday evening and conditions were very good for listening, but no rails called, so I assume it has moved on. Obviously, playback would not be appropriate for this species. The BLRA was on private property so access is very limited. There are several No Trespassing signs and on our return visit we were questioned by the Howard County Police but fortunately we had permission. I wish it had stayed around longer for more people to have had a chance to hear it. It was not in a location where a person could look for it on their own. Many videos and recordings were taken. Here is a link to a small sample. http://www.flickr.com/photos/55023563 AT N08/8805992850/ -- Joe Hanfman Columbia, MD -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Re: Patapsco-Henryton Cerulean
From: Linda Just <ljustrn AT gmail.com>
Date: Thu, 23 May 2013 11:09:44 -0400

Plus it's rule #1b in the ABA Principles of Ethics, so as not to disturb these birds! LIn On Thu, May 23, 2013 at 10:34 AM, Timothy Houghton wrote: > And this goes for the cerulean at "rapids" area of McKeldin's Switchback > Trail. Now that we know for a fact the birds are at these places, avoid > playback. TH > ________________________________________ > From: mdbirding AT googlegroups.com [mdbirding AT googlegroups.com] on behalf > of Russ Ruffing [ruff2 AT verizon.net] > Sent: Thursday, May 23, 2013 8:25 AM > To: mdbirding AT googlegroups.com > Subject: [MDBirding] Patapsco-Henryton Cerulean > > For any who chase the Cerulean at Patapsco-Henryton, please be mindful > that Ceruleans have basically disappeared as breeders in the Patapsco > Valley. This bird appears to be on territory as it is singing incessantly > and chasing other birds through the treetops. We can only hope! Therefore, > in my opinion, audio playback should NOT be used AT ALL on this bird. If > it's around, it will sing, and you will hear it. Just be patient. We do not > need to harass this bird with playback. > > Russ Ruffing > Woodstock, MD > > -- > -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google > Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. > To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on > the web at http://www.mdbirding.com > Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to > mdbirding AT googlegroups.com > > > -- > -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google > Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. > To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on > the web at http://www.mdbirding.com > Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to > mdbirding AT googlegroups.com > > > -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Rock Creek Park, Thursday 5/23/13
From: Wallace Kornack <wallace AT kornack.com>
Date: Thu, 23 May 2013 11:04:29 -0400

This morning (5/23) at Rock Creek Park with Bill Butler and Sharon Forsyth….. -----Birds seen and/or heard: Mourning Dove Downy Woodpecker Eastern Wood-Pewee 3 Acadian Flycatcher head Great Crested Flycatcher 2 Eastern Kingbird Yellow-throated Vireo 2 heard Red-eyed Vireo 3 Blue Jay Barn Swallow 3 Carolina Chickadee 3 Tufted Titmouse 2 White-breasted Nuthatch 2 Carolina Wren 3 Blue-gray Gnatcatcher 4 Wood Thrush 2 American Robin 20+ Gray Catbird European Starling Northern Parula in yard Eastern Towhee 2 Chipping Sparrow Scarlet Tanager Northern Cardinal 2 Indigo Bunting Common Grackle Brown-headed Cowbird 8 Baltimore Oriole 2 American Goldfinch Have Fun Birding! Wallace Kornack Washington DC -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Re: CERULEAN WARBLERS Allegany County
From: Jim Deren <jamesderen AT hotmail.com>
Date: Thu, 23 May 2013 07:45:13 -0700 (PDT)

On Thursday, May 16, 2013 7:41:57 PM UTC-4, Jim Deren wrote: > 2 [possibly 3]singing CERULEAN WARBLERS Breakneck Rd,Flintsone, Allegany County, MD. 5/16/13 5:15 pm - 6:00 pm. > > > > After frustrating past hours seeking ceruleans hiding in dense canopies resulting in damp clothes/warbler neck/gnats; today saw male CERULEAN from comfort of driver's window! Investigated cerulean eBird reports from 5 days ago with outstanding[& painless]results. > > Directions: I68, Rocky Gap Resort Exit50. Westbound : Instead of going into resort on R, go L to parallel MD 144. Go EASTbound 144; first road on R is Breakneck Rd. From start of Breakneck, warblers found 1.4 mile mark. [This spot is .4 miles after Turkey Ridge Rd ]. Spot is at left opening on downhill slope [just another 100 feet or so the road turns very sharply to the left/east]. The few large trees here are 50-60 feet away on the hill, thus canopies are nearly eye level. Spent most of time singing/gleaning in apparent ash trees and briefly at the top of the single large maple. Bird twice came as close as the edge of road in the 20 ft tall trees. At the sharp bend beyond there is a metal gate that reads " Private Drive" where 2nd bird found. Due to sign [ and need to look up] did not linger. Deuling singing males and triangulation, sounded to be a more distant 3rd bird. Birds still singing upon leaving at 6:00. Road is narrow with not much pulloff space - BE CAREFUL. Thankfully not much traffic on this rural road. > > > > Good Birding and Enjoy. > > Jim Deren,Frederick MD ADDENDUM : CERULEANS still singing - I've been coming to same spot every other day and not disappointed . However , the spot is about 70 from the sharp turn and not 100 as stated above. Exact coordinates on eBird . Best light in late afternoon ( after 5) , due to east facing slop. Good Birding and Enjoy . Jim Deren , Frederick, MD -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: RE: Patapsco-Henryton Cerulean
From: Timothy Houghton <thoughton AT loyola.edu>
Date: Thu, 23 May 2013 14:34:31 +0000

And this goes for the cerulean at "rapids" area of McKeldin's Switchback Trail. Now that we know for a fact the birds are at these places, avoid playback. TH ________________________________________ From: mdbirding AT googlegroups.com [mdbirding AT googlegroups.com] on behalf of Russ Ruffing [ruff2 AT verizon.net] Sent: Thursday, May 23, 2013 8:25 AM To: mdbirding AT googlegroups.com Subject: [MDBirding] Patapsco-Henryton Cerulean For any who chase the Cerulean at Patapsco-Henryton, please be mindful that Ceruleans have basically disappeared as breeders in the Patapsco Valley. This bird appears to be on territory as it is singing incessantly and chasing other birds through the treetops. We can only hope! Therefore, in my opinion, audio playback should NOT be used AT ALL on this bird. If it's around, it will sing, and you will hear it. Just be patient. We do not need to harass this bird with playback. Russ Ruffing Woodstock, MD -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Whimbrel alert
From: Harry Armistead <harryarmistead AT hotmail.com>
Date: Thu, 23 May 2013 14:25:53 +0000

WHIMBRELS. Every May a substantial percentage of the East Coast Whimbrel population takes off from the Eastern Shore of Virginia seaside saltmarshes and heads, nonstop, to their breeding grounds in Arctic Canada and Alaska, flying 5 days or so without rest. I just asked Fletcher Smith, of the Center for Conservation Biology, when the best dates are. He said May 23-26, in the evening, is when they leave and that … “most years you probably have thousands flying over, but at night.” Their flight line takes them right over places such as Elliott Island, Rigby’s Folly, and on up the Bay, slanting NW or NNW. Once 595, in 2 flocks, went over out place just after sunset on May 25, 1990, when Liz and I saw (and heard) them. The few other times I have seen this, in smaller numbers, were in this May 23-26 time frame and late in the day. It was this time of year, not too long ago, when West Virginia got its first ever Whimbrels. Before their drastic population decline 41,623 were found during an aerial survey of the Virginia barrier islands areas on May 9, 1995. There they bulk up on fiddler crabs for their heroic migration north, increasing their body weight 25% or more. After today the weather forecast is adverse with strong NW winds for several days. I’d guess today might be their big day or perhaps Sunday or Monday. The big lift off is sometimes seen from the saltmarshes out from Box Tree Road just east of Machipongo, Virginia. Best to all. – Harry Armistead, Philadelphia. -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Re: Patapsco-Henryton Cerulean
From: "George M. Jett" <gmjett AT comcast.net>
Date: Thu, 23 May 2013 09:56:32 -0400

Folks Birds are for us to enjoy, not compete with. Playback for any breeding bird is competition, and should be avoided. Rare species like Black Rails it particularly inappropriate. Seeing or getting a picture to the determent of the bird is unethical. George gmjett AT comcast.net www.georgejett.net From: Bill Hubick Sent: Thursday, May 23, 2013 9:14 AM To: Russ Ruffing ; mdbirding AT googlegroups.com Subject: Re: [MDBirding] Patapsco-Henryton Cerulean Thanks, Russ! I agree. Without getting into a debate on the GENERAL topic of playback use, I hope we can all agree that tape use is now always inappropriate for rare/sensitive breeders. This includes, but isn't limited to any Black Rail, Henslow's Sparrow, Cerulean Warbler, Golden-winged Warbler, and to other species when potentially nesting (e.g., Upland Sandpiper). My personal opinion is that tape use at any well-known, frequently visited site for a favorite species - even if not overly rare (e.g., Least Bittern at a heavily birded area) - should be considered inappropriate. I suggest that we avoid a heated debate on the topic of general tape use, and see if we can agree on some common ground for what is DEFINITELY out of bounds for Maryland. Our growing community and amazing new communication technologies require some proactive consideration. Thanks, and good birding! Bill Bill Hubick Pasadena, Maryland bill_hubick AT yahoo.com http://www.billhubick.com http://www.marylandbiodiversity.com http://www.facebook.com/MarylandBiodiversity ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ From: Russ Ruffing To: mdbirding AT googlegroups.com Sent: Thursday, May 23, 2013 8:25 AM Subject: [MDBirding] Patapsco-Henryton Cerulean For any who chase the Cerulean at Patapsco-Henryton, please be mindful that Ceruleans have basically disappeared as breeders in the Patapsco Valley. This bird appears to be on territory as it is singing incessantly and chasing other birds through the treetops. We can only hope! Therefore, in my opinion, audio playback should NOT be used AT ALL on this bird. If it's around, it will sing, and you will hear it. Just be patient. We do not need to harass this bird with playback. Russ Ruffing Woodstock, MD -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Re: Patapsco-Henryton Cerulean
From: world oceans <world.oceans7 AT gmail.com>
Date: Thu, 23 May 2013 09:46:52 -0400

I concur, Bill and Russ! Also, breeding season for some birds can begin quite early in the year or extend into late summer, so ANY tape use during these months should be carefully considered & avoided if possible. --J.Gibson, Silver Spring On 5/23/13, Bill Hubick wrote: > Thanks, Russ! I agree. > > Without getting into a debate on the GENERAL topic of playback use, I hope > we can all agree that tape use is now always inappropriate for > rare/sensitive breeders. This includes, but isn't limited to any Black Rail, > Henslow's Sparrow, Cerulean Warbler, Golden-winged Warbler, and to other > species when potentially nesting (e.g., Upland Sandpiper). My personal > opinion is that tape use at any well-known, frequently visited site for a > favorite species - even if not overly rare (e.g., Least Bittern at a heavily > birded area) - should be considered inappropriate. > > I suggest that we avoid a heated debate on the topic of general tape use, > and see if we can agree on some common ground for what is DEFINITELY out of > bounds for Maryland. Our growing community and amazing new communication > technologies require some proactive consideration. > > Thanks, and good birding! > > Bill > > > Bill Hubick > Pasadena, Maryland > bill_hubick AT yahoo.com > http://www.billhubick.com > http://www.marylandbiodiversity.com > http://www.facebook.com/MarylandBiodiversity > > > > >>________________________________ >> From: Russ Ruffing >>To: mdbirding AT googlegroups.com >>Sent: Thursday, May 23, 2013 8:25 AM >>Subject: [MDBirding] Patapsco-Henryton Cerulean >> >> >>For any who chase the Cerulean at Patapsco-Henryton, please be mindful that >> Ceruleans have basically disappeared as breeders in the Patapsco Valley. >> This bird appears to be on territory as it is singing incessantly and >> chasing other birds through the treetops. We can only hope! Therefore, in >> my opinion, audio playback should NOT be used AT ALL on this bird. If it's >> around, it will sing, and you will hear it. Just be patient. We do not >> need to harass this bird with playback. >> >>Russ Ruffing >>Woodstock, MD >> >>-- >>-- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group >> 'Maryland & DC Birding'. >>To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on >> the web at http://www.mdbirding.com >>Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to >> mdbirding AT googlegroups.com >> >> >> >> > > -- > -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group > 'Maryland & DC Birding'. > To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on > the web at http://www.mdbirding.com > Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to > mdbirding AT googlegroups.com > > > -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Re: Patapsco-Henryton Cerulean
From: Bill Hubick <bill_hubick AT yahoo.com>
Date: Thu, 23 May 2013 06:14:21 -0700 (PDT)

Thanks, Russ! I agree. Without getting into a debate on the GENERAL topic of playback use, I hope we can all agree that tape use is now always inappropriate for rare/sensitive breeders. This includes, but isn't limited to any Black Rail, Henslow's Sparrow, Cerulean Warbler, Golden-winged Warbler, and to other species when potentially nesting (e.g., Upland Sandpiper). My personal opinion is that tape use at any well-known, frequently visited site for a favorite species - even if not overly rare (e.g., Least Bittern at a heavily birded area) - should be considered inappropriate. I suggest that we avoid a heated debate on the topic of general tape use, and see if we can agree on some common ground for what is DEFINITELY out of bounds for Maryland. Our growing community and amazing new communication technologies require some proactive consideration. Thanks, and good birding! Bill Bill Hubick Pasadena, Maryland bill_hubick AT yahoo.com http://www.billhubick.com http://www.marylandbiodiversity.com http://www.facebook.com/MarylandBiodiversity >________________________________ > From: Russ Ruffing >To: mdbirding AT googlegroups.com >Sent: Thursday, May 23, 2013 8:25 AM >Subject: [MDBirding] Patapsco-Henryton Cerulean > > >For any who chase the Cerulean at Patapsco-Henryton, please be mindful that Ceruleans have basically disappeared as breeders in the Patapsco Valley. This bird appears to be on territory as it is singing incessantly and chasing other birds through the treetops. We can only hope! Therefore, in my opinion, audio playback should NOT be used AT ALL on this bird. If it's around, it will sing, and you will hear it. Just be patient. We do not need to harass this bird with playback. > >Russ Ruffing >Woodstock, MD > >-- >-- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. >To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com >Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com > > > > -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Patapsco-Henryton Cerulean
From: Russ Ruffing <ruff2 AT verizon.net>
Date: Thu, 23 May 2013 07:25:06 -0500 (CDT)

For any who chase the Cerulean at Patapsco-Henryton, please be mindful that Ceruleans have basically disappeared as breeders in the Patapsco Valley. This bird appears to be on territory as it is singing incessantly and chasing other birds through the treetops. We can only hope! Therefore, in my opinion, audio playback should NOT be used AT ALL on this bird. If it's around, it will sing, and you will hear it. Just be patient. We do not need to harass this bird with playback. Russ Ruffing Woodstock, MD -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Fort Smallwood Park Hawkwatch Wednesday, May 22, 2013
From: susiericc AT comcast.net
Date: Thu, 23 May 2013 12:19:55 +0000 (UTC)

Fort Smallwood Park Pasadena, Maryland, USA Daily Raptor Counts: May 22, 2013 Species Day's Count Month Total Season Total Black Vulture 0 35 536 Turkey Vulture 34 861 7246 Osprey 2 65 511 Bald Eagle 7 73 148 Northern Harrier 0 10 69 Sharp-shinned Hawk 0 75 845 Cooper's Hawk 1 29 269 Northern Goshawk 0 0 0 Red-shouldered Hawk 0 2 257 Broad-winged Hawk 64 397 511 Red-tailed Hawk 1 42 245 Rough-legged Hawk 0 0 0 Golden Eagle 0 0 1 American Kestrel 0 2 273 Merlin 0 5 39 Peregrine Falcon 0 2 4 Unknown Accipiter 0 4 14 Unknown Buteo 0 2 8 Unknown Falcon 0 0 1 Unknown Eagle 0 0 0 Unknown Raptor 0 8 17 Mississippi Kite 1 15 15 Total: 110 1627 11009 Observation start time: 8:00 am Observation end time: 4:15 pm Daylight Savings Time Total observation time: 8.25 hours Official Counter Nancy Magnusson, Sue Ricciardi Observers: Hal Wierenga, Nancy Magnusson Weather: Cloudy at the start becoming mostly cloudy; 73-86 degrees; visibility poor to fair with fog/haze; winds starting out southwesterly, becoming variable, and ending from the SSE, 5-8 mph Raptor Observations: One more Mississippi Kite today at 2:59 daylight time, unaged; Broad-wings, Turkey Vultures, and Bald Eagles most notable. Non-raptor Observations: Viceroy Butterfly Report submitted by Sue Ricciardi ( susiericc AT comcast.net ) Fort Smallwood Park information may be found at: http://www.mdbirds.org/sites/mdsites/hawks/hawkwatch.html Site Description: Fort Smallwood Park is located on the western shore of Chesapeake Bay at the mouth of the Patapsco River, 11 miles south of Baltimore, MD. Best winds are from the southwest. The Park is closed to visitors on Wednesdays. http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S14212525 -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Re: Western Kingbird sighting-CCBC campus,Catonsville MD
From: Wendy Alexander <drbeanes AT verizon.net>
Date: Thu, 23 May 2013 05:10:55 -0700 (PDT)

On Wednesday, May 22, 2013 11:04:00 PM UTC-4, Wendy Alexander wrote: > Was on my evening bird walk close to 6pm...and....I spotted a Western Kingbird! > > Seen on fitness trail (near marker #16) on north side of CCBC campus in Catonsville, MD. > > Was by myself and did not have camera. Will go back tomorrow and hope to get a photo then, but I went back at 7pm and no luck. > > Solid grey head and throat, dark bill, yellow belly, perching and catching flying insects, no eye ring or stripe, cresting of feathers on the top of head, looks like Eastern Kingbird, but grey and yellow are prominent colors. Have seen Western Kingbird previously in Maryland some years ago at Fort McHenry. > > Attention to those who are in the area...especially Patapsco State Park-Hilton Area. I really hope someone else spots this bird...I am quite certain it is a Western Kingbird. > > Thanks, Wendy Alexander Hello, No sign of this bird or many others in this location this morning. People have asked me if this may be a great crested flycatcher, which is a good question. This bird had a solid grey head with lighter grey on the chest (from my angle of view--it appeared more lighter grey than white...but could have possibly been lighting). Much more brown on a great crested flycatcher... Anyway, will check back this afternoon, but expect bird may have moved on. (note to self---bringing camera with me on all walks!!) -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Western Kingbird sighting-CCBC campus,Catonsville MD
From: Wendy Alexander <drbeanes AT verizon.net>
Date: Wed, 22 May 2013 20:04:00 -0700 (PDT)

Was on my evening bird walk close to 6pm...and....I spotted a Western Kingbird! Seen on fitness trail (near marker #16) on north side of CCBC campus in Catonsville, MD. Was by myself and did not have camera. Will go back tomorrow and hope to get a photo then, but I went back at 7pm and no luck. Solid grey head and throat, dark bill, yellow belly, perching and catching flying insects, no eye ring or stripe, cresting of feathers on the top of head, looks like Eastern Kingbird, but grey and yellow are prominent colors. Have seen Western Kingbird previously in Maryland some years ago at Fort McHenry. Attention to those who are in the area...especially Patapsco State Park-Hilton Area. I really hope someone else spots this bird...I am quite certain it is a Western Kingbird. Thanks, Wendy Alexander -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Fw: eBird Report - Rachel Carson Park, May 22, 2013
From: diane Ford <dmford455 AT yahoo.com>
Date: Wed, 22 May 2013 19:05:58 -0700 (PDT)

Hi all, Birded Rachel Carson Park in Sunshine Md. this morning. Highlight was a steadily singing male Kentucky Warbler, and a Hooded Warbler down the trail. A pair of Louisiana Waterthrushes hassled me along the path near the Hawlings River; I guess I was 'ticking' them off?? D.Ford/Bethesda, Md. ----- Forwarded Message ----- From: "do-not-reply AT ebird.org" To: dmford455 AT yahoo.com Sent: Wednesday, May 22, 2013 9:54 PM Subject: eBird Report - Rachel Carson Park, May 22, 2013 Rachel Carson Park, Montgomery, US-MD May 22, 2013 8:50 AM - 11:25 AM Protocol: Traveling 2.0 mile(s) Comments: A.M. fog & clouds; mid morn sunny. Walked Meadow Loop & Conservation Trails. 51 species Wood Duck 1 Great Blue Heron 2 Black Vulture 2 Turkey Vulture 2 Red-shouldered Hawk 1 Mourning Dove 3 Barred Owl 1 Chimney Swift X Red-bellied Woodpecker 2 Hairy Woodpecker 1 Northern Flicker 1 Eastern Wood-Pewee 3 Acadian Flycatcher 3 Eastern Phoebe 1 Great Crested Flycatcher 2 Eastern Kingbird 1 Yellow-throated Vireo 2 Red-eyed Vireo 4 Blue Jay 4 American Crow 2 Tree Swallow 10 Barn Swallow 1 Carolina Chickadee 2 Tufted Titmouse 2 Carolina Wren 2 Blue-gray Gnatcatcher 2 Eastern Bluebird 4 Wood Thrush 2 American Robin 4 Gray Catbird 1 European Starling 2 Cedar Waxwing 8 Ovenbird 2 Louisiana Waterthrush 2 Kentucky Warbler 1 Male singing on territory. Common Yellowthroat 2 American Redstart 1 Northern Parula 1 Magnolia Warbler 1 Chestnut-sided Warbler 1 Blackpoll Warbler 1 Black-throated Green Warbler 2 Eastern Towhee 1 Field Sparrow 4 Scarlet Tanager 4 Northern Cardinal 4 Indigo Bunting 4 Red-winged Blackbird 2 Common Grackle 1 Brown-headed Cowbird 1 American Goldfinch X View this checklist online at http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S14212047 This report was generated automatically by eBird v3 (http://ebird.org) -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Great Falls Eagles: Big and Active
From: Donald Sweig <skybirds.d AT gmail.com>
Date: Wed, 22 May 2013 21:21:41 -0400

I had a long look with my scope at the eagle nest on the south end of Conn Island at Great Falls today. Both of the chicks appeared to be full-grown. They were walking around the nest and exercising their wings. An adult flew in and appeared to have brought food. The hatchlings may well fledge in the next 2 to 3 weeks. Donald Sweig Falls Church, Va. Sent from my iPad _______________________________________________ va-bird mailing list http://mailman.listserve.com/listmanager/listinfo/va-bird Thank you for subscribing to Va-bird, a service of the Virginia Society of Ornithology. Please consider joining the VSO. http://www.virginiabirds.net/
Subject: Great Falls Eagles: Big and Active
From: Donald Sweig <skybirds.d AT gmail.com>
Date: Wed, 22 May 2013 21:21:41 -0400

I had a long look with my scope at the eagle nest on the south end of Conn Island at Great Falls today. Both of the chicks appeared to be full-grown. They were walking around the nest and exercising their wings. An adult flew in and appeared to have brought food. The hatchlings may well fledge in the next 2 to 3 weeks. Donald Sweig Falls Church, Va. Sent from my iPad -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Wyman Park highlights, 5/22/13
From: Lynne Parks <v.lynneparks AT gmail.com>
Date: Wed, 22 May 2013 14:10:46 -0700 (PDT)

I found a nice pocket of warblers in Wyman Park this morning. Magnolia Warbler 2 Blackburnian Warbler 1 Blackpoll Warbler 2 Black-throated Green Warbler 1 Black-throated Blue Warbler 1 Canada Warbler 4 Lynne -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: 91st Dorchester County May bird count (in fll), May 4, 2013
From: Harry Armistead <harryarmistead AT hotmail.com>
Date: Wed, 22 May 2013 20:51:09 +0000

91st DORCHESTER COUNTY MAY BIRD COUNT (in full), May 4, 2013. EFFORT: 340 miles by car, 10 on foot; 20 hours by car, 33.25 on foot; owlng, 7.5 hours, 67 miles. 4 A.M. â€“ 8:30 P.M. 125 species (poor). COVERAGE, PARTY AREAS: To have 5 parties (but only 6 observers) is very good coverage for this 1st weekend in May count since I tend to recruit more for the 2nd weekend because that is the official day of the M.O.S. May bird count. 1. Dave Palmer & Danny Poet: central Blackwater area, to include Old Field Road, Egypt Road up to the start of Cambridge city limits, Maple Dam-Shorterâ€™s roads from Key Wallace Drive S to Andrews X Lakesville (Route 336) roads. 2. Steve Ford: Hooperâ€™s Island but including Swan Harbor & Meekins Neck roads, Hip Roof Road, and Smithville Road up to the entrance to Moneystump Swamp, which is just N of Beaverdam Creek and is part of Blackwater N.W.R. 3. Harry Armistead: 4 AM. â€“ 9 P.M. 158 miles by car. The circuit rider, grand tour: greater central Blackwater N.W.R. area, Hooperâ€™s Island, & Elliott Island Road. I wasnâ€™t sure Blackwater & Hooperâ€™s Island would be covered by others today (mea culpa) and have done my best to reconcile the resulting 2 lists from each of those 2 areas. 4. Levin Willey: Linkwood area., Percy May Road, Salem, Linkwood W.M.A. 5. George Radcliffe: Neck District. SPECIES REPRESENTATION IN SOME GROUPS: 8 sparrows: Chipping 94, Field 5, Savannah 1, Grasshopper 4, Seaside 62, Song 8, Swamp 1, White-throated 23. 6 heron types (poor): great blue 58, green 10, black-crowned night 1, great egret 43, snowy egret 13 (scarce this spring), glossy ibis 7. 4 rallids (poor): clapper 24, Virginia 11, king 2, common gallinule 3. 9 waterfowl: Canada goose 65, wood duck 15, black duck 33, mallard 121, blue-winged teal 2, green-winged teal 26, lesser scaup 1, red-breasted merganser 3, ruddy duck 250. 14 shorebirds (low nos. for most): black-bellied plover 1, semipalmated plover 0 (!!), killdeer 17, black-necked stilt 2 (Elliott Island Road), greater yellowlegs 42, lesser yellowlegs 34, willet 20, spotted sandpiper 4, sanderling 4, semipalmated sandpiper 1, least sandpiper 7, PURPLE SANDPIPER 2 (new to the count; on the Middle Hooperâ€™s Island experimental jetty, 3 P.M, as the tide was ebbing, foraging in the intertidal zone of the rocks; one of the few county records; studied with 32X scope and 10X42 binoculars at c. 150â€™; coming into breeding plumage and hence yellowish coloration on legs and bill barely discernible; HTA), dunlin 440, short-billed dowitcher 12, Wilsonâ€™s snipe 3. WHERE are all the Leasts â€¦ sometimes see 100s.? 11 warblers (poor): northern parula 1, yellow 1, myrtle 21, yellow-throated warbler 1, pine 32, prairie 7, American redstart 0, prothonotary 2, worm-eating 3, ovenbird 16, common yellowthroat 112, yellow-breasted chat 3. The OTHER SPECIES: wild turkey 24, northern bobwhite 1, common loon 6, American white pelican 1, brown pelican 6 (2 parties), double-crested cormorant 60, black vulture 19, turkey vulture 145, osprey 97, bald eagle 115, northern harrier 4, sharp-shinned hawk 1, red-tailed hawk 10, laughing gull 1,354, ring-billed gull 32, herring gull 47, great black-backed gull 7, Caspian tern 2, royal tern 19, Forsterâ€™s tern 73, least tern 10, rock pigeon 12, morning dove 39, yellow-billed cuckoo 0, eastern screech-owl 6, great horned owl 2, barred owl 0, chuck-willâ€™s-widow 32, chimney swift 13, red-headed woodpecker 15, red-bellied woodpecker 13, downy woodpecker 10, hairy woodpecker 1, northern flicker 7, pileated woodpecker 3, eastern wood-pewee 0, great crested flycatcher 35, eastern kingbird 10, white-eyed vireo 8, red-eyed vireo 11, blue jay 30, American crow 74, fish crow 16, horned lark 4, purple martin 95, tree swallow 67, barn swallow 197, Carolina chickadee 35, tufted titmouse 41, brown-headed nuthatch 21, Carolina wren 31, house wren 13, marsh wren 18, blue-gray gnatcatcher 9, eastern bluebird 65, wood thrush 8, American robin 153, gray catbird 5, northern mockingbird 46, brown thrasher 8, European starling 226, summer tanager 5, scarlet tanager 1, eastern towhee 11, northern cardinal 62, blue grosbeak 7 (really low), indigo bunting 5, red-winged blackbird 535, eastern meadowlark 14, common grackle 323, boat-tailed grackle 11, brown-headed cowbird 72, orchard oriole 21, house finch 8, American goldfinch 36, house sparrow 52. WEATHER: Mostly overcast at start (4 A.M.), becoming fair, then clear. 44Â°F. (4 A.M.) - 65Â°F. (3 P.M.) - 48Â°F. (8 P.M.). Winds NE 10-15 pre-dawn, NE 20 (3 P.M.), NE 10 (9 P.M.). Basically a cool, breezy day. SOUTH OF ROUTE 50 it is curious how scarce woodpeckers are. Red-headeds may be the most abundant woodpecker, getting big help from the countless 1000s of Loblolly Pines dying off due to salt water intrusion. Blue Jays have become scarce in this area. TIDE (low) at Fishing Point on Fishing Bay 5:17 P.M. MISSED SPECIES: Too numerous to mention on this breezy, cool day of a breezy, windy, cold, late spring plagued by many days with a cold, northeast wind.. MY OWN DAY: 19 hours, 113 species (poor). NON-AVIAN TAXA: Fox Squirrel 1, Gray Squirrel 1 d.o.r., Sika Deer 11, White-tailed Deer 5; at Blackwater 41 Painted Turtles & 1 Redbelly Slider; at Gum Swamp 7 Painted Turtles & 1 Redbelly Slider. Elsewhere: 2 Bullfrogs, 1 Green Frog. A few Tiger Swallowtails and unIDâ€™d sulphurs. I had a very good Bald Eagle count: 83. At Robbins a lovely â™‚ Prairie Warbler perched on the phone line directly overhead. At McCreadyâ€™s Creek at dayâ€™s end the great cacophony of the Laughing Gulls with a few Royal Tern accents is always a heartening experience. First bird of the day was a robin singing at the Cambridge Wawa, 4 A.M. A King Rail called for minutes on end at Shorterâ€™s Marsh. Excellent views of a â™‚ Summer Tanager and a â™‚ Prothonotary Warbler. MY THANKS to the participants for putting in good time and effort on a not-so-great day weatherwise. Best to all. â€“ Harry Armistead, Philadelphia. -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Dickcissels in Carroll Co.
From: Bob Ringler <ringler.bob AT gmail.com>
Date: Wed, 22 May 2013 16:25:51 -0400

Margaret Liubavicius and I birded northwest Carroll County today looking for grassland birds. All the expected species were seen including five Dickcissels in three locations. All five Dickcissels were singing. We saw two on Sixes Bridge Road. One was about a quarter mile east of Keysville Road S singing from the large tree opposite the farm lane. The other was about 100 yards farther east singing from the Black Locust trees. Vesper, Savannah, and Grasshopper Sparrows were also holding territory here and were providing fine telescope views. Later we saw one Dickcissel singing on the south side of Sharrett Road midway between the Francis Scott Key Highway and Crouse Mill Road and just west of the brick farm house but on a fence set far back from the road. Two more Dickcissels were on Baptist Road about three quarters of a mile southwest of Harney. One was singing from the utility wire and the other was heard in the field to the west. All of these sites are on private land and must be observed from the road. Farm vehicles may be encountered at any time so be prepared to move on short notice. The roads have no shoulders. The only Bobolink we saw was singing on territory from a treetop on Hagerstown Lane just off Keysville Road. The only Meadowlark we saw was on Frock Road north of Taneytown. Single Kestrels were seen on Sixes Bridge Road and on Crouse Mill Road X Hapes Mill Road. Single Red-headed Woodpeckers were in the woods on Baumgardner Road S, at Crouse Mill Road X Hapes Mill Road, and on Teeter Road where it crosses Piney Creek. All of these birds were at sites where they have bred in the past. -- Bob Ringler Eldersburg MD -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: RE: Looking for a Golden Plover
From: Jeffery Davis <jwdjwd67 AT msn.com>
Date: Wed, 22 May 2013 14:44:12 -0400

European Golden Plovers are exceptionally rare in the lower 48 states with the only two accepted well documented birds that I know of. There was a bird at Scarbough Marsh in ME in Oct '08 and Wick's Potato Farm on Rt 9 in DE in Sept '09. I'm to young to start a flame war about any Bombay Pluvialis species before my time. ;) I personally dipped on both the Maine and DE birds so I certainly hope that against the odds your friends are right and the bird sticks around. regards, jeff Downingtown, PA Checkout our bird photos at the link below: http://www.flickr.com/photos/jeffamy/ or for a slightly different viewing experience: http://www.flickriver.com/photos/jeffamy/ "Birding Like I Have Six Months To Live" Date: Wed, 22 May 2013 13:57:16 -0400 Subject: Re: [MDBirding] Looking for a Golden Plover From: edboyd59 AT gmail.com To: pjcampbell56 AT gmail.com CC: mdbirding AT googlegroups.com Joan. Fresh alternate plumage (breeding) Black-bellied Plovers usually have golden tones in their back feathers. These can sometimes be quite bold and cause people to call them Golden. This would also account for the described large size. Not saying this is absolutely what they saw but should be considered as an id. Ed Boyd Chestnut Hill Cove, MD Anyone down Chincoteague or Assateague this week? I have some friends who have a home on CI and do some birdwatching at the park and on the wildlife drive there. They mentioned they were out on the weekend on the drive birding the mudflats and spotted what they think is a European Golden Plover. I didn’t get a description other than they thought it was big for a shorebird and matched the description in the guide they were using. I was thinking that if it is the European plover, then it might be a rare bird for that area and wondered if someone else had seen one there or perhaps might want to check it out. Of course, I am not great on shorebirds so have to ask for help from the group in making identifications and/or knowing what is rare or not. J Thanks, Joan "God gave us memories that we may have roses in December." J.M. Barrie P please consider the environment before printing this e-mail BirdingBoomers.Com – Check out our new website! -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Re: Looking for a Golden Plover
From: Edward Boyd <edboyd59 AT gmail.com>
Date: Wed, 22 May 2013 13:57:16 -0400

Joan. Fresh alternate plumage (breeding) Black-bellied Plovers usually have golden tones in their back feathers. These can sometimes be quite bold and cause people to call them Golden. This would also account for the described large size. Not saying this is absolutely what they saw but should be considered as an id. Ed Boyd Chestnut Hill Cove, MD Anyone down Chincoteague or Assateague this week? I have some friends who have a home on CI and do some birdwatching at the park and on the wildlife drive there. They mentioned they were out on the weekend on the drive birding the mudflats and spotted what they think is a European Golden Plover. I didn’t get a description other than they thought it was big for a shorebird and matched the description in the guide they were using. I was thinking that if it is the European plover, then it might be a rare bird for that area and wondered if someone else had seen one there or perhaps might want to check it out. Of course, I am not great on shorebirds so have to ask for help from the group in making identifications and/or knowing what is rare or not. J**** ** ** *Thanks**,***** *Joan*** *"God gave us memories that we may have roses in December." J.M. Barrie**** * *P** **please consider the environment before printing this e-mail***** *BirdingBoomers.Com – Check out our new website!***** ** ** -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Re: Around DC - Dunlin, Wilow Flycatchers
From: Scott Loss <scottrloss AT yahoo.com>
Date: Wed, 22 May 2013 10:49:04 -0700 (PDT)

On Wednesday, May 22, 2013 1:47:57 PM UTC-4, Scott Loss wrote: > In a somewhat rare occurrence, I had a car this morning, so I went after some of the "rarities" that have been around DC, and I visited a few places I don't usually get to by foot/bike/metro. > > I checked Constitution Gardens first for the Northern Shoveler, which is apparently gone; next stop was the Jefferson Memorial, where the DUNLIN continues on the muddy seawall just west of the memorial. Hain's Point was very quiet except for a CANADA WARBLER along the maintenance road and two straggler LESSER SCAUP on the Potomac. At Anacostia Park, there were at least two WILLOW FLYCACTCHERS (calling and seen) back at their traditional breeding area at Poplar Point. Finally, I checked the RFK Stadium parking lots, but they were completely empty and puddle area is getting pretty small. > > Despite nexrad radar indicating heavy migration over DC early last night, the migrants were not evident this morning (admittedly I had a late start and it was very summer-like out there). Where are the migrant Empidonax flycatchers?? > > Scott Loss > Washington DC Of course, I meant WILLOW flycatcher in the subject line Scott DC -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Around DC - Dunlin, Wilow Flycatchers
From: Scott Loss <scottrloss AT yahoo.com>
Date: Wed, 22 May 2013 10:47:57 -0700 (PDT)

In a somewhat rare occurrence, I had a car this morning, so I went after some of the "rarities" that have been around DC, and I visited a few places I don't usually get to by foot/bike/metro. I checked Constitution Gardens first for the Northern Shoveler, which is apparently gone; next stop was the Jefferson Memorial, where the DUNLIN continues on the muddy seawall just west of the memorial. Hain's Point was very quiet except for a CANADA WARBLER along the maintenance road and two straggler LESSER SCAUP on the Potomac. At Anacostia Park, there were at least two WILLOW FLYCACTCHERS (calling and seen) back at their traditional breeding area at Poplar Point. Finally, I checked the RFK Stadium parking lots, but they were completely empty and puddle area is getting pretty small. Despite nexrad radar indicating heavy migration over DC early last night, the migrants were not evident this morning (admittedly I had a late start and it was very summer-like out there). Where are the migrant Empidonax flycatchers?? Scott Loss Washington DC -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Looking for a Golden Plover
From: Joan at Google <pjcampbell56 AT gmail.com>
Date: Wed, 22 May 2013 13:43:30 -0400

Anyone down Chincoteague or Assateague this week? I have some friends who have a home on CI and do some birdwatching at the park and on the wildlife drive there. They mentioned they were out on the weekend on the drive birding the mudflats and spotted what they think is a European Golden Plover. I didn't get a description other than they thought it was big for a shorebird and matched the description in the guide they were using. I was thinking that if it is the European plover, then it might be a rare bird for that area and wondered if someone else had seen one there or perhaps might want to check it out. Of course, I am not great on shorebirds so have to ask for help from the group in making identifications and/or knowing what is rare or not. J Thanks, Joan "God gave us memories that we may have roses in December." J.M. Barrie P please consider the environment before printing this e-mail BirdingBoomers.Com - Check out our new website! -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Rock Creek Park, Wednesday 5/22/13
From: Wallace Kornack <wallace AT kornack.com>
Date: Wed, 22 May 2013 10:41:22 -0400

This morning (5/22) at Rock Creek Park…. ----Birds seen and/or heard: Wood Duck 2 flyby Red-tailed Hawk Mourning Dove 4 Yellow-billed Cuckoo Chimney Swift 6 Ruby-throated Hummingbird Red-bellied Woodpecker Northern Flicker Pileated Woodpecker Eastern Wood-Pewee 3 Acadian Flycatcher 2 Great Crested Flycatcher 3 Yellow-throated Vireo Red-eyed Vireo 3 Blue Jay Carolina Chickadee 2 Tufted Titmouse White-breasted Nuthatch 3 Carolina Wren 2 Blue-gray Gnatcatcher 3 Swainson's Thrush Wood Thrush 3 American Robin 20 Gray Catbird European Starling Ovenbird 2 American Redstart Blackpoll Warbler Eastern Towhee Chipping Sparrow 2 Northern Cardinal 3 Common Grackle 5 Brown-headed Cowbird 5 Baltimore Oriole House Finch 2 American Goldfinch 4 Observers: Bill Butler, Sharon Forsyth, Gary Nelson, Sally, Betsy Stevens Have Fun Birding! Wallace Kornack Washington DC -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Re: OT: My favorite Maryland bird (still)
From: Janet Millenson <janet AT twocrows.com>
Date: Wed, 22 May 2013 10:39:28 -0400

Jason, When the weather's suitable, I take her out into our (large) yard. Her flight feathers are kept trimmed but she's a good climber, so I keep a close eye on her. Occasionally an accipiter pauses overhead for a closer look, at which point we head indoors. -Janet On 5/22/2013 10:25 AM, Jason Berry wrote: > Hi Janet, > > Do you actually take her out to bird? > > Jason Berry > Washington, DC > > ------------------------------------------------------------------------ > *From:* Janet Millenson > *To:* mdbirding > *Sent:* Wednesday, May 22, 2013 10:20 AM > *Subject:* [MDBirding] OT: My favorite Maryland bird (still) > > It's been five years since I last posted on this topic, so please > indulge me. I'd like to give a shout-out to my able avian assistant, > Pascal the African Grey Parrot, who joined our household 30 years ago > today. Although her bird-call repertoire is disappointing and her ID > skills are only so-so, her ability to spot raptors is superb. She's > enabled me to see many hawks and vultures that I otherwise would have > missed, and often points out unusual birds in our yard. All she asks > in return is unlimited treats and total obedience! > > > Janet Millenson > Potomac, MD (Montgomery County) > janet AT twocrows.com > ---------------------------------------------------------------- > "Look at the birds!" -- Pascal the parrot > > -- > -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google > Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. > To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group > on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com > Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to > mdbirding AT googlegroups.com > > > > > -- > -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google > Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. > To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group > on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com > Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to > mdbirding AT googlegroups.com > > -- Janet Millenson janet AT twocrows.com -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Re: OT: My favorite Maryland bird (still)
From: Jason Berry <jgbrc AT yahoo.com>
Date: Wed, 22 May 2013 07:25:19 -0700 (PDT)

Hi Janet, Do you actually take her out to bird? Jason Berry Washington, DC ________________________________ From: Janet Millenson To: mdbirding Sent: Wednesday, May 22, 2013 10:20 AM Subject: [MDBirding] OT: My favorite Maryland bird (still) It's been five years since I last posted on this topic, so please indulge me. I'd like to give a shout-out to my able avian assistant, Pascal the African Grey Parrot, who joined our household 30 years ago today. Although her bird-call repertoire is disappointing and her ID skills are only so-so, her ability to spot raptors is superb. She's enabled me to see many hawks and vultures that I otherwise would have missed, and often points out unusual birds in our yard. All she asks in return is unlimited treats and total obedience! Janet Millenson Potomac, MD (Montgomery County) janet AT twocrows.com ---------------------------------------------------------------- "Look at the birds!" -- Pascal the parrot -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Documenting your favorite birding locations over time....
From: Sam Droege <sam_droege AT yahoo.com>
Date: Wed, 22 May 2013 07:23:58 -0700 (PDT)

All: Below is a new and very short video about an idea we have had to measure change using sets of corrected (rectified, if you will) pictures over time from the same place. We think it has lots of applications to the type of work that ecologists, foresters, land managers, and environmental citizen groups do and provides an easy (and actually information dense) way of tracking long-term changes using volunteers using the smart phone that many carry in their pocket, we talk about its use in trails in the video, but the concept is broad and is meant to be applicable to any location you would like to create uniform documentation of change over long or short periods of time without having to install a permanent camera. Here is the pitch video (under 3 minutes) http://youtu.be/A1ULAsEQAWs Here is the technical video that shows how to rectify the pictures http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w2pEKjw3Idk Below is some additional information on the idea. ----- On the ground impacts of Global Climate change, sea level rise, changes to our forests and landscapes, development, all can be measured with precise scientific instruments. But the money and time to do so is often just not there and thus major changes around us are happening but remain undocumented. However, a partial solution is at hand by simply taking pictures over time from the same location. Combine those pictures into a sequence and you directly and permanently document and demonstrate change, and these changes can then be quantified. This video is a short pitch video about a concept to crowdsource changes in the environments where we live, work, play, or care about .... be they parks, our backyards, our rivers, or our city scape, using nothing more than camera phones. The new thing here is that multiple people with multiple cameras can take pictures....the pictures are then processed using existing software so that no matter what camera type or format the pictures were originally they are transformed into uniform snapshots of the same scene, they have the same dimensions with all the objects in the pictures the same size and shape....this allows all the different pictures to be put into time lapse sequences that can be made into a video, a slideshow, or used to measure change directly….over days, years, or decades. People can do this right now using existing materials at single sites or they can organize networks of camera stations at scales of parks, cities, watersheds, counties, states, countries, or the world. This is a presentation of an idea. Anyone can modify this in any way they like and implement it at any scale. No copyrights. No permissions needed. Just Do It. For more technical details on doing the picture rectification see our video at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w2pEKjw3Idk Possible places/groups to implement: Watershed societies, Riverkeepers, Stream crossings, trail clubs, stream monitoring groups; coastal beaches, dunes, marshes; lichen plots, restorations sites, forestry sites, parks, refuges, new developments, your backyard, construction of a building, the greenup in spring and the leaf drop in the fall of forests and so forth Feel free to distribute this email. sam Sam Droege sdroege AT usgs.gov w 301-497-5840 h 301-390-7759 fax 301-497-5624 USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center BARC-EAST, BLDG 308, RM 124 10300 Balt. Ave., Beltsville, MD 20705 Http://www.pwrc.usgs.gov The Inward Morning Packed in my mind lie all the clothes Which outward nature wears, And in its fashion's hourly change It all things else repairs -Henry David Thoreau -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: OT: My favorite Maryland bird (still)
From: Janet Millenson <janet AT twocrows.com>
Date: Wed, 22 May 2013 10:20:14 -0400

It's been five years since I last posted on this topic, so please indulge me. I'd like to give a shout-out to my able avian assistant, Pascal the African Grey Parrot, who joined our household 30 years ago today. Although her bird-call repertoire is disappointing and her ID skills are only so-so, her ability to spot raptors is superb. She's enabled me to see many hawks and vultures that I otherwise would have missed, and often points out unusual birds in our yard. All she asks in return is unlimited treats and total obedience! Janet Millenson Potomac, MD (Montgomery County) janet AT twocrows.com ---------------------------------------------------------------- "Look at the birds!" -- Pascal the parrot -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Ferry Neck & Dorchester County, May 17-20, 2013
From: Harry Armistead <harryarmistead AT hotmail.com>
Date: Wed, 22 May 2013 14:08:42 +0000

FERRY NECK & DORCHESTER COUNTY, MAY 17-20, 2013. George, Harry & Liz Armistead. MAY 17, FRIDAY. A Bald Eagle at mile 113, Route 301. At the routes 481 X 309 wetland: 8 Semipalmated Plovers, 4 Least Sandpipers, and a Green Heron. Arrive at our place at 2:10 P.M Clear, calm, 78-80Â°F. 0.70â€ in the rain gauge since last time. Out at Lucy Point: 23 Surf Scoters, 7 Common Loons, a Least Tern, and 24 Diamondback Terrapin. Along the Lucy Point trail a Gay Squirrel and a small Red Fox kit. I donâ€™t think Iâ€™ve ever seen the Black Locust blossoms this luxuriant. George arrives at 7 P.M. and finds 35 species between then and darkness incl. 2 Least Terns, a Chuck-willâ€™s-widow, a Blue Grosbeak, 2 hummingbirds, and 2 Green Herons. The first chorus of Green Tree Frogs, somewhere off to the E. George sees an adult Red Fox and a kit on the driveway next to Field 4. MAY 18, SATURDAY. 2 Common Loons, 2 Bald Eagles, 8 Surf Scoters, a Least Tern, 3 crested flycatchers, and a black duck plus 4 Gray Squirrels, and a Muskrat pushing a Black Cherry cutting to its lodge. A Brown Thrasher carrying nesting material as well as a â™€ bluebird, a pair of blues attending the new bird house high up on a Loblolly Pine in the lawn. Seven Chimney Swifts. Raccoons empty our SquirrelBuster feeder each night by shaking it. <0.1â€ rain today. Overcast, in the low 60s all day long, SE15+ diminishing to c. 10 m.p.h. Light rain at noon. George puts in a full day, 7:47 A.M. â€“ 4:16 P.M, in southern Dorchester County finding 111 species and visiting Vienna, the Pig Farm, Blackwater N.W.R., Hip Roof Rd., Hooperâ€™s I., Drawbridge, Decoursey Bridge & Golden Hill roads and Gum Swamp, Middletown Branch and Egypt roads. He sees a Woodchuck near Vienna, a Fox Squirrel somewhere else. Some of his highlights. Hoopers Island: Lesser Scaup 1, Black Scoter 1â™€, Common Loon 4, Horned Grebe 1, oystercatcher 2, green-winged teal 1 (a cripple), and Brown Pelican 6. Egypt Road: bobwhite 4 (1, a â™‚, photographed at close range). Blackwater: white pelican 1. Decoursey Bridge Road: Glossy Ibis 1, Red-shouldered Hawk 1. Middletown Branch Road: Blackpoll Warbler 2. Gum Swamp: King Rail 1, close view for several minutes. Drawbridge Road: Bonaparte Gull 1 in a ploughed field with some of the blackbellies, Barred Owl 1. Some of his day grand totals: Clapper Rail 10, Black-bellied Plover 179, Grasshopper Sparrow 14, Summer Tanager 11, Blue Grosbeak 15, and Indigo Bunting 41. MAY 19, SUNDAY. A birdwalk at Blackwater N.W.R. with 9 participants: Harry & Liz Armistead, Diane Cole, Cathy Cooper, Caro Czerkies, Pam Maxcy, Marianna McKim Steve Riemer, and Levin Wlley. 7:30 A.M. â€“ 1 P.M. Some of the birds lsted below are seen before or after the official birdwalk. 62-72Â°F., overcast, winds NE10 becoming calm, partly sunny at the end. Water in impoundments is lowering, in tidal areas somewhat low. 75 species: Canada goose 25, MUTE SWAN 5 (in the distance on the S side of Backwater R. as seen from Pool 3, Larry), mallard 40 (incl. a â™€ with 8 downy ducklings), American white pelican 1, double-crested cormorant 8, great blue heron 10, great egret 7, black vulture 3, (1 disabled on the S side of Key Wallace Drive), turkey vulture 20, osprey 14, bald eagle 20, red-tailed hawk 1, king rail 1 Virginia rail 12 (very vocal, repeated good views of 2 from the new observation platform), black-bellied plover 2, semipalmated plover 16, killdeer 4, greater yellowlegs 1, spotted sandpiper & least tern (both seen by Levin before the walk at Sewards; I forget how many), semipalmated sandpiper 4, least sandpiper 2, unIDâ€™d peep 80, dunlin 9, laughing gull 125, herring gull 3 & great black-backed gull 1 (both species in Cambridge), Forsterâ€™s tern 3, rock pigeon 8 (Cambridge), mourning dove 8, yellow-billed cuckoo 1, ruby-throated hummingbird 1, red-headed woodpecker 3 (1 at a nest cavity), red-bellied woodpecker 1, northern flicker 2, pileated woodpecker 1, eastern wood-pewee 2, great crested flycatcher 12, eastern kingbird 8, red-eyed vireo 1, blue jay 2, American crow 8, fish crow 3, purple martin 40, tree swallow 15, barn swallow 40, Carolina chickadee 3, tufted titmouse 3, brown-headed nuthatch 3, Carolina wren 6, marsh wren 1, eastern bluebird 10, wood thrush 1, American robin 20, gray catbird 1, northern mockingbird 5, brown thrasher 1, European starling 25, northern parula 1, myrtle warbler 1, pine warbler 8, American redstart 1, ovenbird 1, common yellowthroat 10, summer tanager 3, chipping sparrow 8, northern cardinal 8, blue grosbeak 3 (Egypt Road), indigo bunting 1, red-winged blackbird 65, eastern meadowlark 2, common grackle 55, brown-headed cowbird 10, orchard oriole 8, American goldfinch 2, house sparrow 8. Right in the area of the blind we have confirmed breeding of robin, chickadee, barn swallow & flicker. NON-AVAN TAXA: Bullfrog 3, Cricket Frog 4, Copeâ€™s Gray Tree Frog 1, Black Swallowtail 4, Fox Squirrel 3, Gray Squirrel 1, Eastern Cottontail 7, Muskrat 2, Painted Turtle 1, Snapping Turtle 2 (1 laying eggs, another I catch and show to the participants). In the afternoon back to our place by 1:45. Fair, calm, 74-78Â°F. At Lucy Point 4:30-5:30: a â™‚ Black Scoter, 19 Surf Scoters, 46 Diamondback Terrapin, a Cow-nosed Ray, 6 Laughing Gulls, and zero loons. The scoters all are seen to be capable of strong flight From the dock: 9 terrapin, 8 Cow-nosed Rays. A pair of adult Herring Gulls is hunting in the cove, one with a Hogchoker that it swallows whole, another with a Blue Crab. An Osprey chases a Great Blue Heron, the heron emitting major squawks. Also from the dock: 2 black ducks, 2 Mallards & 3 Least Terns. In the yard: seven Gray Squirrels, 2 cottontails, and 2 Muskrats. A Green Frog continues its life confined to the goose pit in Field 1, SAT scores so low it does not take advantage of the escape board I placed there for it. ROGUE TITMOUSE UPDATE. Not satisfied with combating most of the windows in the house, it attacks Georgeâ€™s car, a red Suzuki, and, last time, the Verizon truck. It hits our TrailBlazer outside mirrors so often they become fouled and need to be cleaned daily. MAY 20, MONDAY. Clear, rapidly becoming overcast, 66Â°F. at start, SW5+. Gray Squirrel 7 (incl. 2 young), Eastern Cottontail 2. Two Green Tree Frogs calling halfheartedly near the base of the dock. The injured â™‚ Common Goldeneye, seen every day this visit, preening on our shoreline near the dock. When it rises up out of the water and flaps its wings it is easy to see they are useless. Cattle Egret 1, Snowy Egret 1, Brown Thrasher 2, Northern Watersnake 1. A Great Egret at Frog Hollow, unusual for there. Leave by 9:45 A.M. A d.o.r. Snapping Turtle near the junction of routes 301 X 481. In the routes 481 X 301 wetland only a single Painted Turtle. MAY 11 ADDENDA. In the Neck District Carol & Lee McCollough saw an adult Great Horned Owl with 2 young. HAPPY NEW YEAR. May 21. In the mail is the 1st unsolicited 2014 calendar, from an organization I donâ€™t even belong to, EarthJustice. Itâ€™s a nice calendar. Normally I receive 6 or 7 such calendars annually from various not-for-profit organizations. Best to all. â€“ Harry Armistead, Philadelphia. -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Caroline County Tuesday birding - Part 3
From: jim green <jkgbirdman53 AT gmail.com>
Date: Wed, 22 May 2013 09:50:02 -0400

Hi everybody: Living proof that posting after a long day of birding when exhausted is not always a good mix. Sherman Suter pointed out to me that I forgot to mention the name of the bird I felt was singing and chipping in odd habitat at the Gravelly Branch crossing on Draper Mill Rd last evening. It was a first-year male BLUE GROSBEAK. Thanks Sherman! Jim Green...Gaithersburg, MD Sent from my Windows Phone -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Fwd: DC Area, 5/21/2013
From: lydiaschindler AT verizon.net
Date: Wed, 22 May 2013 06:54:47 -0500 (CDT)

-------- Original Message -------- From: "Steve Cordle" Date: May 21, 2013 7:28:25 PM Subject: DC Area, 5/21/2013 To: BIRDEAST AT LISTSERV.KSU.EDU Hotline: Voice of the Naturalist Date: 5/21/2013 Coverage: MD/DC/VA/DE/WV panhandle Telephone: 301-652-1088 option 1 Reports, comments, questions: (e-mail): voice AT AudubonNaturalist.org (voice): 301-652-1088 option 2 Compiler: Helen Patton Sponsor: Audubon Naturalist Society of the Central Atlantic States (independent of NAS!) Transcriber: Steve Cordle (scordle AT capaccess.org) Please consider joining ANS, especially if you are a regular user of the Voice (Individual $50; Family $65; Nature Steward $100; Audubon Advocate $200). The membership number is 301-652-9188, option 12; the address is 8940 Jones Mill Road, Chevy Chase, MD 20815; and the web site is http://www.AudubonNaturalist.org. This is the Voice of the Naturalist, a service of the Audubon Naturalist Society. This report was completed Tuesday, May 21, at 3:30 PM. Top birds this week are: ANHINGA in VA and MISSISSIPPI KITE in MD and VA. Other birds of interest include: RED-BREASTED MERGANSER, AMERICAN WHITE PELICAN, GLOSSY IBIS, BROAD-WINGED HAWK, SANDHILL CRANE, BLACK-NECKED STILT, phalaropes, BLACK-BILLED CUCKOO, COMMON NIGHTHAWK, flycatchers, PHILADELPHIA VIREO, warblers and sparrows. An ANHINGA flew over the College Creek Hawk Watch, Surry Co, VA on May 19. A single MISSISSIPPI KITE flew over Annandale, VA, carrying nesting material on May 17. The Fort Smallwood Hawk Watch reported two MISSISSIPPI KITES on May 20. A RED-BREASTED MERGANSER was in the Potomac River near Swains Lock, Montgomery Co, MD on May 17 accompanied by 10 chicks. An AMERICAN WHITE PELICAN was at Willis Wharf, Northampton Co, VA on May 17. A flock of GLOSSY IBIS was at the Bitter Sweet Golf Course, Elkton, Cecil Co. MD on May 14 while six GLOSSY IBIS were at Hart-Miller Island, Baltimore Co, on the same day. Two GLOSSY IBIS were at Shirley Plantation, New Kent Co, VA on May 16. The Fort Smallwood Hawk Watch recorded 69 BROAD-WINGED HAWKS on May 15, down to 11 on May 20. A SANDHILL CRANE was on Shuresville Road in Darlington, Harford Co, MD seen during the week. The property owners have asked that any observers respect their privacy. They have had numerous vehicles parked alongside the road in front of their house, in the neighbor's driveways and at the end of their driveway which has become VERY invasive for the family. Eight BLACK-NECKED STILTS were at Hart-Miller Island, Baltimore Co, MD on May 14. Two BLACK-NECKED STILTS paid a five minute visit to the Swan Creek dredge containment facility, Anne Arundel Co, MD on May 18. The weekly shorebird survey at Chincoteague NWR on May 17 recorded over 18,000 individuals of 20 species which is a record high count for the last 4 years. Noteworthy high counts included: 6095 Semi-palmated sandpiper, 4204 Dunlin and 2203 Semi-palmated Plover. A WILSON'S PHALAROPE was in Billingsley Marsh, Prince George's Co, MD on May 16. Three WILSON'S PHALAROPES were at Truitt's Landing, Worcester Co, MD on May 17. Also on May 17, A WILSON'S PHALAROPE was at Bombay Hook NWR and a RED-NECKED PHALAROPE was on Newark Reservoir, north of Newark, both in DE, WILSON'S and RED-NECKED PHALAROPES were at Chesapeake Farm, Kent Co, MD on May 18. A BLACK-BILLED CUCKOO was perched and calling at Susquehanna SP, Harford Co, MD on May 14. Another BLACK-BILLED CUCKOO was at Schoolhouse Pond, Prince George's Co, MD on May 15. Fifty five+ COMMON NIGHTHAWKS were flying at Violette's Lock on the C&O Canal, Montgomery Co, MD on May 14 followed by even more on May 15. Two or three COMMON NIGHTHAWKS flew over Silver Spring, Montgomery Co, MD on May 19. Six COMMON NIGHTHAWKS buzzed the U.S. Air Force Memorial in Arlington, VA on May 20. An OLIVE-SIDED FLYCATCHER was at Battery Kemble Park, DC on May 15. Another OLIVE-SIDED FLYCATCHER paid a series of short visits to a yard in Woodbine, Carroll Co, MD on May 18 and 19. An ALDER FLYCATCHER was singing at Accotink Bay WR, Fairfax Co, VA on May 16. Another ALDER FLYCATCHER was singing at Schoolhouse Pond, Prince George's Co, MD on May 17. A PHILDELPHIA VIREO was at Swan Creek dredge containment facility, Anne Arundel Co, MD on May 17. Migrating warblers abounded in the region this week. Venues with double-digit warbler counts included the Fredericksburg, VA, Soldier's Delight, Baltimore Co, MD, Rock Creek Park, DC, Susquehanna SP, Harford Co, MD, Wyman Park, Baltimore City, MD, Oxbow Lake, Anne Arundel CO, MD, Governor Bridge Natural Area, Prince George's Co, MD, Ft. DuPont, DC, Milford Mill Park, Randallstown, Baltimore Co, MD, Monticello Park, Alexandria, VA,. An amazing 29 warbler species were seen at Susquehanna SP on May 16. The HENSLOW'S SPARROW reported last week off Jennings Chapel Road in Howard Co, MD was heard again on May 15. Seven WHITE-CROWNED SPARROWS were on Hart-Miler Island on May 14. WHITE-CROWNED SPARROWS visited a yard in Herndon, Fairfax Co, VA on May 19. More than 100 BOBOLINKS were on Harford Creamery Road, Harford Co, MD on May 14 while 11 BOBOLINKS were at the Staunton River Battlefield SP, Halifax, VA on the same day. Twenty BOBOLINKS were at Kenilworth Park, DC on May 19. Most of this week's reports have been gleaned from the VA-Bird, West Virginia Birding List, and DE-Birds list servers, and the mdbirding web site. The Audubon Sanctuary Shop (301-652-3606, http://www.audubonnaturalist.org/default.asp?page=511) is an excellent source for guidebooks and many other nature-related titles. To report bird sightings, e-mail your report to voice AT AudubonNaturalist.org or call 301-652-1088. Please post reports before midnight Monday, identify the county as well as state, and include your name and a Tuesday morning contact, either e-mail or phone. Thank you for calling, and GOOD BIRDING. *Of interest to the records committee -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Caroline County - Part II
From: jim green <jkgbirdman53 AT gmail.com>
Date: Tue, 21 May 2013 23:53:44 -0400

Hi everybody: I realized that I forgot to post the last location I visited prior to returning to Tuckahoe St. Pk. I was on Draper Mill Rd at a creek crossing - this was another part of Gravelly Branch that appears to run east of the Red Bridges Rd - Greensboro Christian Park and crosses the above mentioned road. On my map the area on the east side of Draper Mill Rd. is actually part of a small bird sanctuary that is called Pelot Bird Sanctuary. For some reason I believe this sanctuary is owned by MD Ornithological Society but could not put my fingers on verification of this belief of mine before posting. So if I am incorrect or correct and anybody can verify or denounce this thought of mine I would appreciate it. Bottom line it was a very interesting location, heavily wooded on both sides of the road with the stream running under the road. I was their later in the afternoon and there was a decent amount of commuter traffic. Nontheless I had some nice sightings. There are some adjacent field/wood edges nearby but I was still surprised to have a first year male singing and chipping in the trees above the stream for most of the 25 minute period that I was there. I also heard Acadian Flycatcher, Wood Thrush, Scarlet Tanager and a very vocal Kentucky Warbler that also popped up and gave me a nice five second look. One other interesting observation I had early this morning on one of the wooded trails that runs parallel to the back swampy section of the lake at Tuckahoe St. Pk on the Carolina side was a female N. Bobwhite that appeared 30 feet in front of me as I was walking along the trail. I watched the bird nonchalantly feeding by apparently grabbing bugs off of the underside of green leaf plants that were within its reach on the side of the trail. I know that I have seen N. Bobwhite in Caroline County before but never in this type of habitat. I expect somebody to tell me that they are raised/released somewhere in the vicinity but regardless it was very interesting watching the bird feed for about five minutes. Jim Green Gaithersburg, MD work in moderation, BIRD IN EXCESS !!! -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Fort Smallwood Park Hawkwatch Tuesday, May 21, 2013 Ten Mississippi Kites
From: susiericc AT comcast.net
Date: Wed, 22 May 2013 03:15:13 +0000 (UTC)

Fort Smallwood Park Pasadena, Maryland, USA Daily Raptor Counts: May 21, 2013 Species Day's Count Month Total Season Total Black Vulture 4 35 536 Turkey Vulture 40 827 7212 Osprey 2 63 509 Bald Eagle 8 66 141 Northern Harrier 0 10 69 Sharp-shinned Hawk 0 75 845 Cooper's Hawk 0 28 268 Northern Goshawk 0 0 0 Red-shouldered Hawk 1 2 257 Broad-winged Hawk 54 333 447 Red-tailed Hawk 3 41 244 Rough-legged Hawk 0 0 0 Golden Eagle 0 0 1 American Kestrel 0 2 273 Merlin 0 5 39 Peregrine Falcon 0 2 4 Unknown Accipiter 0 4 14 Unknown Buteo 0 2 8 Unknown Falcon 0 0 1 Unknown Eagle 0 0 0 Unknown Raptor 0 8 17 Mississippi Kite 10 14 14 Total: 122 1517 10899 Observation start time: 8:00 am Observation end time: 4:30 pm Daylight Savings Time Total observation time: 8.5 hours Official Counter Nancy Magnusson, Sue Ricciardi Observers: Bob Rineer, Nancy Magnusson Visitors: Penny Zahn; Tim Carney Weather: Cloudy for the first four hours, then decreasing cloud cover, becoming mostly sunny; 69-85 degrees; visibility was poor to fair with fog/haze due to high relative humidity; winds light, either variable or with a southerly component, 5-6 mph. Raptor Observations: A record-setting day with an amazing 10 Mississippi Kites! Times(daylight time) of observation were 1 at 8:30, 2 at 12:08, 4 at 12:20, 1 about 1:30, 2 at 1:52. Most were high and the poor visibility prevented aging most of them, but three were aged as adults and one a sub-adult. Some were in view for several minutes; others went by quickly. (Reminder that the Park is closed to visitors on Wednesdays.) Non-raptor Observations: One Canvasback Complete ebird list with photos from Nancy Magnusson of Canvasback and several kites: http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S14202091 Report submitted by Sue Ricciardi ( susiericc AT comcast.net ) Fort Smallwood Park information may be found at: http://www.mdbirds.org/sites/mdsites/hawks/hawkwatch.html Site Description: Fort Smallwood Park is located on the western shore of Chesapeake Bay at the mouth of the Patapsco River, 11 miles south of Baltimore, MD. Best winds are from the southwest. The Park is closed to visitors on Wednesdays. -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Slightly OT: Garrett/Allegany Boundary
From: JCDLMARTIN AT aol.com
Date: Tue, 21 May 2013 22:51:56 -0400 (EDT)

Last year there was a discussion on MDOsprey about what was the legally recognized boundary between Garrett and Allegany Counties, particularly as it affects county listers in places like Finzel Swamp and Russell Road. It was agreed that the more easterly "Bauer Line," which put most of Finzel Preserve in Garrett County, had been declared void and that the "Chisholm Line," which placed most of Finzel in Allegany, was now the legal boundary. What wasn't clear was which of several graphical representations of the Chisholm Line through Finzel has been adopted by Maryland birders. MapQuest and Bing show the line passing slightly differently between the first and second footbridges (walking from the parking lot) while the map that Ed Boyd received from Garrett County Planning & Development has the line well beyond the east end of the boardwalk. I hate to beat a dead horse, and I don't really care where the legal boundary is, but for listing purposes (and county records) I'd like to know whether MD birders have come to an agreement on this. Thanks for any input, and thanks to those who posted in detail last year. Joel Martin Catonsville -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Caroline and a little bit of Talbot Counties - 5/21
From: jim green <jkgbirdman53 AT gmail.com>
Date: Tue, 21 May 2013 22:48:40 -0400

Hi everybody: After 8 consecutive long days restricted primarily to working and reading about all of the great birds people have been seeing I finally had a day off to do some catching up. I spent 90% of my day in Caroline County. I dipped into Talbot County for a short time in the early afternoon and a quick stop in QA County on the way home. I started at first daylight on the Caroline side of Tuckahoe St. Pk, then went to Adkins Arboretum where I ran into Duvall Sollers and birded that area with him. I then worked my over to Tanyard (low tide was about 10:15 AM) with a short stop along Stoney Creek Road. After that I spent some time driving through residential areas of Easton, and then headed to northern Caroline County - Red Bridges Rd. My last stop was back to Tuckahoe St. Pk. Migrants were far and few between throughout the day. Below are the highlights of my day. All areas are in Caroline County unless otherwise noted. Tuckahoe St. Pk. Warblers included Prothonotary, Pine, Ovenbird, Common Yellowthoat and Worm-eating. There were numerous Orchard Orioles but no Baltimore which is one bird that I was really looking for. I heard a Yellow-billed Cuckoo and in the Campground Loop I had nice looks at both Tanagers. Adkins Arboretum (with Duvall) Yellow-breasted Chat and Blackpoll Warbler (only migrant warbler of the day). Duvall had been at the lakeside of Tuckahoe SP and was also looking for a Baltimore Oriole (unsuccessful). We did not see any at Adkins either. Stoney Creek Rd. Only warbler was a LA. Waterthrush...again great looks at a Summer Tanager, this time at eye level. Tanyard Numerous Semipalmated Plovers and Semipalmated Sandpipers; one each of Least Sandpiper, Dunlin, Least Tern and Forster's Tern. Easton neighborhoods I was hoping to find my Talbot County Blackpoll and was successful in hearing and briefly seeing one at Idlewild Park (corner of Idlewild and Aurora Rds)...Back to Caroline County... Red Bridges Rd. (on the way into Greensboro Christian Park) Yellow-throated Vireo - heard and briefly seen along the tree line bordering Gravelly Branch, (my first for the county). On the way out I heard a Yellow Warbler call twice along a hedge row on the north side of the road. I saw one in this same location several years ago, my only one for the county until today. Tuckahoe St. Pk. (part 2) Since I was not that far away from the St. Pk. and it was somewhat in the direction of heading home I justified stopping back at the park on the Caroline side of the lake again. This time, (finally), I was rewarded with a pair of Baltimore Orioles vocalizing and chasing each other around in the trees just below the bathroom. Queen Anne County - behind the Kent Narrows Holiday Inn I heard at least 4 Marsh Wrens calling. It was a very enjoyable day to be out! Jim Green Gaithersburg, MD Dare I say... work in moderation, BIRD IN EXCESS!!! -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Request for Carroll County birding sites
From: brookie48 AT embarqmail.com
Date: Tue, 21 May 2013 19:05:39 -0700 (PDT)

5-21-13 We are only going to be able to be in the Westminster area one full day to bird, Fri., May 24, and need recommendations on birding sites. Brookie and Jean Potter Elizabethton, TN -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Poplar Island - 5/21/13
From: PETER OSENTON <roadwarrior71 AT verizon.net>
Date: Tue, 21 May 2013 18:40:31 -0700 (PDT)

Hi everyone, Today was our first trip out to the island to start our tern nesting research. We had decent numbers of both Common and Least Terns and found and marked about 60 Least's nests, many with 1 or 2 eggs. The Leasts are nesting in 3 main areas, and the Commons are nesting in different habitat somewhat nearby. However, we had no Common Tern nests with eggs yet, just scrapes in the sand or soil. Below are some of the highlights we saw while working today. Lesser Scaup - 1 female off the northern end of the island Semipalmated Plover Killdeer - found 1 nest Am. Oystercatcher - 2 Black-necked Stilt - saw at least 6 birds and 1 nest. Both Yellowlegs Willet Spotted Sandpiper Ruddy Turnstone Semipalmated Sandpiper Least Sandpiper Dunlin - several hundred Eastern Kingbird - 1 Purple Martin Tree Swallow Barn Swallow Bank Swallow - counted 17 nests on 1 sand bank, several others (~15) near an adjacetnt bank. Peter Osenton Jessup, Md. -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Recent Photos - Wilson's Phalarope, Seaside & Grasshopper Sparrows, Whimbrel, etc
From: mike burchett <mikeburchett23 AT gmail.com>
Date: Tue, 21 May 2013 19:12:15 -0400

Hi all, I just finished catching up on some photo editing. Included in this set are: Flock of Whimbrel on the OSV Zone of Assateague http://www.flickr.com/photos/mikeburchett/8760668970/ Photo shoot of a Grasshopper Sparrow on territory in northern Worcester county including video http://www.flickr.com/photos/mikeburchett/8769674865/ Wilson's Phalarope at Truitt's Landing http://www.flickr.com/photos/mikeburchett/8774830116/ Photo shoot of Seaside Sparrow at Truitt's Landing including video http://www.flickr.com/photos/mikeburchett/8776084824/ Bay-breasted Warbler from a brief visit to Susquehanna State Park http://www.flickr.com/photos/mikeburchett/8770077643/ Good birding, Mike Burchett Ocean Pines, Maryland -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: RE: Shorebirds, Red Knots?
From: "Neil Rothschild" <neil.rothschild98 AT gmail.com>
Date: Tue, 21 May 2013 19:05:15 -0400

Just in on the Delaware list... -----Original Message----- From: Delaware Birding [mailto:de-birds AT Princeton.EDU] On Behalf Of Bill Stewart Sent: Tuesday, May 21, 2013 6:46 PM To: de-birds AT Princeton.EDU Subject: [de-birds] Serious Shorebird Spectacle-Pickering Beach Good Evening DE-birders, I have had the good fortune to visit the DE Bayshore a number of times for a number of events over the past 12 days and today was certainly a day to behold. In previous visits, shorebird numbers were less than expected but horseshoe crabs and their eggs were in abundance. Starting the day today at 6:40 AM in Slaughter Beach, 35 minutes after high tide, I could tell that the wonder of our shorebird spectacle was about ready to unfold. From Evans Ave. as far as the eye could see, shorebirds, shorebirds, shorebirds.....on wing going north and south, feeding and jockeying for position. What a change from this weekend. As the tide started to abate, sand spits covered with horseshoe crabs were emerging in the Mispillion Harbor and the shorebirds were multiplying. In every collection of the thousands of shorebirds, numerous Red Knot were in evidence. For those numbers and the accuracies on the count, the fantastic Delaware Shorebird Project team can reveal, as they were in evidence dropping off re-sighters throughout the harbor. But to this shorebirder, strong numbers compared to just a few days ago. So the subject line of this e-mail mentions Pickering Beach............arriving there at 11:00ish and walking up through the public access onto the beach held a sight I have often wished for over this past decade or just flat missed in my timing. Everywhere I looked, whether with naked eye, binoculars or scope, Red Knots were present........10 feet away, 10 yards, 100 yards. The density of the horseshoe crabs was intense, and the birds followed. I have no idea how many Red Knot were there and I quickly decided I wasn't going to try to count them since no scope could see that distance but I was going to enjoy and feel extremely lucky to have this opportunity to be amazed that this part of their migration succeeded and they still have a place to land and refuel. After witnessing such a spectacle, I recalled earlier when leaving Mispillion on RT. 36 and seeing the milepost sign on RT. 1 which said 'Dover 19 miles'. I am thinking that between that RT. 1 entrance and Pickering Beach is about 23 miles. Can you imagine 23 miles of protected, undisturbed habitat along the Delaware Bayshore filled with migrating shorebirds........no need to imagine, it's right there in all of it's glory and global importance. Thank You Russell Peterson. Go shorebirding, Bill Stewart -----Original Message----- From: mdbirding AT googlegroups.com [mailto:mdbirding AT googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of Philip Brody Sent: Tuesday, May 21, 2013 5:37 PM To: mdbirding AT googlegroups.com Subject: [MDBirding] Shorebirds, Red Knots? Any current information with regard to shorebirds at Slaughter Beach?, Port Mahon Road, Mispillion Light? Also the Horseshoe Crab spawning? -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: dunlin, least sp at Jeff memorial
From: "Beard, Jim (VMNH)" <Jim.Beard AT vmnh.virginia.gov>
Date: Tue, 21 May 2013 22:32:10 +0000

The Dunlin, joined by a Least Sandpiper were still feeding in puddles atop the seawall west of the Jefferson Memorial at 5:15 this evening. They are very close to the walkway and almost totally unafraid, so if you want to make a close up study of these birds, now is your chance. I was within 5 feet of the Least, the closest I've ever been to that species. Jim Beard Arlington -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Shorebirds, Red Knots?
From: Philip Brody <brodyps AT gmail.com>
Date: Tue, 21 May 2013 14:36:57 -0700 (PDT)

Any current information with regard to shorebirds at Slaughter Beach?, Port Mahon Road, Mispillion Light? Also the Horseshoe Crab spawning? -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Re: Ol' 95 (Red Knot).
From: "Mike Hudson" <birdman96 AT verizon.net>
Date: Tue, 21 May 2013 16:21:24 -0400

For Paul and all of you following this story, B95 WAS seen again yesterday! That make about four times in a little under a week. Moonbird was found last Thursday at Mispillion, and then the next morning was in New Jersey were he has been seen on-and-ff at various beaches since then. Yesterday he was photographed at Fortescue, a banding sight just outside Cape May County by New Jersey Shorebird Project team members. B95 was banded as an adult in Argentina in 1995 (this puts him at likely being 20/21 years old). He has been captured several times and spotted at various locations between southern Canada and Tierra del Fuego at least 50 times. I have attached the better of the two photos that I received from Larry Niles, the team leader. Good Birding! Mike H. Baltimore City From: Paul Noell Sent: Monday, May 20, 2013 7:58 PM To: MdBirding Subject: [MDBirding] Ol' 95 (Red Knot). A birding trip to Delaware Bay, led by Walter Ellison, in admittedly dim hopes of spotting this doughty bird banded some 20 years ago. It's estimated it has flown over the years the equivalent of the distance to the moon and half way back. By my rough calculations (approx. 240,000 mi. avg. dist.) that comes out to 360,000 miles! Of course, we did see Red Knots and all were highly prized. Who knows? Maybe we DID see ol' 95, but the attached pic at Mispillion Light will have to suffice. At the other end of the spectrum, there were TONS of Osprey, among lots of birds. Well done, Walter. Paul Noell Balto MD -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: 92nd Dorchester May bird count (in full), May 11, 2013
From: Harry Armistead <harryarmistead AT hotmail.com>
Date: Tue, 21 May 2013 17:21:34 +0000

92nd DORCHESTER COUNTY MAY BIRD COUNT (in full), MAY 11 2013. [a report on the 91st count, conducted on May 4, will follow in about a week] EFFORT: Midnight â€“ 8:30 P.M. 532 miles by car, 15 miles on foot. 35 hours by car, 45 hours on foot. 82 miles owling, 14 hours owling. 12 observers in 8 parties. 149 species (poor). Taylorâ€™s Island was not covered. In many respects a very satisfying day with interesting weather and a lot of birds, bird song, and some great sights, but hardly any flight of neotrops and non-breeding passerines. PARTY AREAS: 1. Dave Palmer: central Blackwater area, to include Old Field Road, Egypt Road up to the start of Cambridge city limits, Maple Dam-Shorterâ€™s roads from Key Wallace Drive S to Andrews X Lakesville (Route 336) roads. 2. Terry Allen: birdwalk along Wildlife Drive, Blackwater N.W.R., c. 8 A.M. â€“ 1 P.M. I tried to reconcile this list and the above one by including highest counts, species seen only by 1 party, etc. 3. Steve Ford, Don Merritt. Hooperâ€™s Island but including Swan Harbor & Meekins Neck roads, Hip Roof Road, and Smithville Road up to the entrance to Moneystump Swamp, which is just N of Beaverdam Creek and is part of Blackwater N.W.R. 4. Colin McAllister. Areas N of Route 50 and also Kraft Neck Road. 5. Diane Cole: Cambridge area. 6. Harry Armistead, Jared Sparks: Elliott Island road in its entirety but also Lewis Wharf, Kraft Neck Road, Vienna, and the Route 50 borrow pit. 7. Levin & Diane Willey: Linkwood area., Percy May Road, Salem, Linkwood W.M.A. 8. Carol & Lee McCollough: Neck District. SPECIES REPRESENTATION IN SOME GROUPS: 10 sparrows (good): Chipping 137, Field 9, Savannah 3, Grasshopper 46 (5 parties; 32 in the fallow field-rich Neck District), Saltmarsh 1, Seaside 92, Song 10, Swamp 8 (breeding birds), White-throated 23, White-crowned 1 adult (Chapel of Ease Road). 8 heron types (good): great blue 95, little blue 1 ad., tricolored 8, green 3, black-crowned night 1, great egret 64, snowy egret 18, glossy ibis 7. 6 rallids (good): clapper 47 (3 parties), Virginia 37, king 9, sora 1, common gallinule 3, coot 1. 10 waterfowl: Canada goose 127 (incl. a pair w/ 2 goslngs), wood duck 24, gadwall 2, American black duck 32, mallard 99, mallard X American black duck 1, blue-winged teal 2, green-winged teal 2, scaup unIDâ€™d 1, HOODED MERGANSER 5 (A â™€ with 4 young; Colin McAllister; at Lecompte Wildlife Management area; only the 2nd count record), ruddy duck 578 (a very unlikely 5th most numerous species today). Species with 2s all represent pairs. 15 shorebirds (so so; low nos. for most): black-bellied plover 18, semipalmated plover 105, killdeer 20, black-necked stilt 1 (Blackwater; Terry Allen), greater yellowlegs 27, lesser yellowlegs 14, willet 28, spotted sandpiper 27, ruddy turnstone 1, sanderling 4, semipalmated sandpiper 9, least sandpiper 58, pectoral sandpiper 3, dunlin 80 (low), short-billed dowitcher 1. The BBPLs, SESAs & most of the SEPLs in a ploughed, wet field N side of Steele Neck Road. WHERE are all the Leasts â€¦ sometimes see 100s.? 16 warblers: northern parula 12, yellow 2, black-throated blue 1, myrtle 5, black-throated green 2, yellow-throated 1, pine 67, prairie 21, black-and-white 3, American redstart 3, prothonotary 9, worm-eating 15, ovenbird 50, Louisiana waterthrush 4, common yellowthroat 157, yellow-breasted chat 14. The OTHER SPECIES: wild turkey 41, northern bobwhite 4 (continues to decline drastically), common loon 16, double-crested cormorant 114, black vulture 36, turkey vulture 151, osprey 143, bald eagle 105, northern harrier 3, red-shouldered hawk 1, red-tailed hawk 29, American kestrel 1, laughing gull 1206, Bonaparteâ€™s gull 1 (Hooperâ€™s I.), ring-billed gull 23, herring gull 132, GLAUCOUS GULL 1 (a 2nd cycle bird at Hooperâ€™s I. by Steve Ford & Don Meritt; Don took photos, 4 good ones; a gleaming white bird with pink base to the bill, dark tip, new to the count), great black-backed gull 16, Caspian tern 1, royal tern 4, Forsterâ€™s tern 81, least tern 24 (nesters on a roof near the Cambridge Walmart; by Diane Cole), rock pigeon 36, morning dove 122, yellow-billed cuckoo 6 (4 parties), eastern screech-owl 2, great horned owl 6, barred owl 2, chuck-willâ€™s-widow 33 (5 parties), whip-poor-will 2, chimney swift 36, ruby-throated hummingbird 6 (4 parties), red-headed woodpecker 14 (5 parties), red-bellied woodpecker 21, downy woodpecker 9, hairy woodpecker 4, northern flicker 13, pileated woodpecker 8 (7 parties), eastern wood-pewee 12, Acadian flycatcher 3, eastern phoebe 1, great crested flycatcher 139 (all 8 parties), eastern kingbird 51, white-eyed vireo 35, red-eyed vireo 42, blue jay 57, American crow 165, fish crow 33, crow unIDâ€™d 53, horned lark 12, purple martin 254, tree swallow 106, barn swallow 292, Carolina chickadee 36, tufted titmouse 96, red-breasted nuthatch 3, white-breasted nuthatch 1, brown-headed nuthatch 28, Carolina wren 94, house wren 33, marsh wren 61, blue-gray gnatcatcher 26, eastern bluebird 93, veery 1 (neck District), wood thrush 22, American robin 415, gray catbird 21, northern mockingbird 79, brown thrasher 10, European starling 623, summer tanager 21, scarlet tanager 8, eastern towhee 24, northern cardinal 171, blue grosbeak 69, indigo bunting 105, red-winged blackbird 797, eastern meadowlark 23 (5 parties), common grackle 694, boat-tailed grackle 29, brown-headed cowbird 96, orchard oriole 40, house finch 30, America goldfinch 116, house sparrow 79. MANY, MANY THANKS to the intrepid participants who put in long hours in spite of a rather jumpy forecast but on a day when the weather turned out somewhat better than anticipated. MOST NUMEROUS SPECIES, the top 11: laughing gull 1206, red-winged blackbird 797, common grackle 694, European starling 623, ruddy duck 578 (!!), American robin 415, barn swallow 292, purple martin 254, northern cardinal 171, American crow 165, common yellowthroat 157. Turkey vulture AT 151 comes in 12th. Osprey with 143, 13th. Why are so many of the most numerous species black? WEATHER. Definitely. Basically mostly overcast with strong SW winds, WARM & WET, with periods of rain in the predawn darkness & once in the late afternoon. 64 - 81Â°F. At the start, midnight: 74Â°F., SW15, distant lightning, clear then quickly becoming overcast, lightning getting close at 1 A.M., then a deluge at 1:15 A.M. when overcast, NE5+, 68Â°F. 3:15 A.M., 66Â°F., overcast, sprinkles light & variable winds. 5 A.M., 64Â°F., NE5+, overcast, occasional light rain. At noon: 74Â°F., SW20, fair. 4P.M., 81Â°F., mostly overcast, SW15. 4:30-5 P.M. light rain but also sun in some areas of the sky, beautiful. 8:30 P.M, 72Â°F., fair SW10+. Iâ€™ll take an overnight low of 64Â°F. any old time. This has been a cold, wet, late spring with predominantly E or NE winds. Many of the breeding birds and migrants are/were late. DORCHESTERâ€™S LIMITATIONS. This county has spectacular marsh & other wetlands and 100s of miles of Bay and other shorelines, but is quite limited in other respects. It is warbler-, vireo-, swallow-, flycatcher-, and raptor-challenged. The May counts seldom net over 20 warbler species. If we see Warbling Vireo, an empid other than Acadian, swallows other than Barn, Tree or martin, or an accipiter or falcon this constitutes an exception to the usual situation. True, the 3 fancy swallows do nest in small numbers in extreme north Dorchester. SOUTH OF ROUTE 50 it is curious how scarce woodpeckers are. Red-headeds may be the most abundant woodpecker, getting big help from the countless 1000s of Loblolly Pines dying off due to salt water intrusion. Blue Jays have become scarcer in this area. TIDES at Fishing Point on Fishing Bay: high 3:36 A.M., low 10:26 A.M., high 3:59 P.M. MISSED SPECIES: None of these is THAT surprising a miss here. On the other hand, it would not be THAT surprising to have gotten any of them: Swainsonâ€™s thrush, yellow-throated vireo, common nighthawk, barn owl, black rail, common tern, solitary sandpiper, white-rumped sandpiper, white pelican, brown pelican, woodcock, oystercatcher, snipe, mute swan, horned grebe, cedar waxwing, pied-billed grebe, least bittern, cattle egret, Baltimore oriole, rose-breasted grosbeak, vesper sparrow, Kentucky warbler, dickcissel, bobolink, red-breasted merganser, surf scoter. MISTAKES in my separate Elliott Island Road report for May 11, posted earlier. I could with considerable justification blame this on my failing keyboard, but ultimately the culpability resides with the compiler: Osprey 3 should have been 38. Laughing Gull 12 should be 125. Carolina Wren 1 should have been 13. European Starling 7 (you wish) should have been 70. Thereâ€™s probably a mistake or 2 in THIS report. If you see such, please let me know. Thanks. Best to all. â€“ Harry Armistead, Philadelphia. -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Dunlin at Jefferson Memorial
From: Jim Felley <jdfelley AT gmail.com>
Date: Tue, 21 May 2013 10:01:29 -0700 (PDT)

Yesterday on my walk around the Tidal Basin, I found a Dunlin in the flooded seawall area immediately west of the Memorial. It was still there today, apparently unfazed by tourists walking by its precious mud puddles. Jim -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Re: Miss Kites - Fort Smallwood
From: Nancy Magnusson <magnunc AT earthlink.net>
Date: Tue, 21 May 2013 12:25:40 -0400

12:20 - 4 more just screamed by!! Look up, everyone! Sent from my iPad On May 21, 2013, at 12:19 PM, Nancy Magnusson wrote: > 12:10 - 2 just went over > > Sent from my iPad -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Miss Kites - Fort Smallwood
From: Nancy Magnusson <magnunc AT earthlink.net>
Date: Tue, 21 May 2013 12:19:21 -0400

12:10 - 2 just went over Sent from my iPad -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Rock Creek Park, 5/21/13
From: Wallace Kornack <wallace AT kornack.com>
Date: Tue, 21 May 2013 11:26:08 -0400

This morning (5/21) at Rock Creek Park…. ---Birds seen and/or heard: Blue-winged Warbler AT yard late (Paul) American Redstart 5 Northern Parula 2 Magnolia Warbler 3 Canada Warbler 3 Mourning Dove Ruby-throated Hummingbird 2 Red-bellied Woodpecker 2 Downy Woodpecker Eastern Wood-Pewee 3 Acadian Flycatcher Great Crested Flycatcher 2 Yellow-throated Vireo Red-eyed Vireo 3 Blue Jay Barn Swallow 4 Carolina Chickadee 2 White-breasted Nuthatch Carolina Wren 2 Blue-gray Gnatcatcher 2 Swainson's Thrush Wood Thrush 2 Robin 20+ European Starling 2 Cedar Waxwing 26+ Eastern Towhee 2 Chipping Sparrow 4 Scarlet Tanager Northern Cardinal Common Grackle 5 Brown-headed Cowbird 10 Baltimore Oriole American Goldfinch 3 Observers: Bill Butler, Jim Lemert, Paul DeAnna, Mark Lieberman, Ed Lyon, Cathy Wiss, Sasha Litman, Sharon Forsyth, Judy Bromley Have Fun Birding! Wallace Kornack Washington DC -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Yard migrants today
From: Warblerick <ricksussman1955 AT gmail.com>
Date: Tue, 21 May 2013 06:44:26 -0700 (PDT)

This morning I had a few nice looks at a Lincoln's Sparrow in a mulberry tree next to the fence, in the yard, and later a nice male Blackpoll Warbler, not singing (not that I could hear it anyway), but perched atop a dead tree momentarily, then flitting to other trees and feeding. No sign of the Olive-sided Flycatcher. Had a peweee singing yesterday afternoon when I went to fetch the trash can. And nice looks at Great-crested Flycatcher too. Rick Sussman Woodbine,MD -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Milford Mill
From: Leslie Starr <turnstar AT aol.com>
Date: Tue, 21 May 2013 09:03:05 -0400

On May 21, 2013, at 8:45 AM, Sean Stewart wrote: > For what it's worth, in the Baltimore area I've gotten some of my best actual looks at warblers in Milford Mill Park (also known as Villa Nova Park) in the Lochearn/Pikesville area. Not sure if you've birded there, but the layout of the park encourages good viewing. The trail is only a mile long and it stays close to the stream on one side and winds through very close to trees and other vegetation, often affording good looks at foraging warblers. Milford Mill Park is great for birds, but people going for the first time should be know that it is literally alongside the Baltimore beltway and there is a lot of traffic noise. The noise diminishes as you go around the trail, but it can be overwhelming near the parking area. This is not intended to be a deterrent, just a warning. I go there often and have seen and heard many good birds there. Leslie Starr Baltimore -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Fwd: Poplar Island Sightings for 9 May 2013
From: Les Roslund <lesroslund AT gmail.com>
Date: Tue, 21 May 2013 08:55:47 -0400

---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Les Roslund Date: Thu, 16 May 2013 09:02:46 -0400 Subject: Poplar Island Sightings from May 9, 2013 This report is submitted on behalf of Jan Reese of Talbot County, who continues to periodically survey the flora and fauna of the Paul Sarbanes Ecosystem Restoration Project at Poplar Island. The summary of bird observations that follows was taken by permission from the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers and MD Port Administration, May 2013, Fauna Monitoring Report for the Paul S. Sarbanes Ecosystem Restoration Project at Poplar Island. Strong northeast wind for 18 consecutive days (21 April - 8 May) grounded north transient birds. The wind finally subsided and we came under a south breeze during the morning of 8 May providing the tail wind the birds needed to continue their movement north. This PI bird census reflects the past 24-hours mass movement with over 2,000 shorebirds and a sprinkling of songbirds like swallows, warblers and sparrows. --- Jan Reese Weather: Hazy Overcast Early am, partly sunny thereafter. Temp: 58-66 degrees F SPECIES Number of birds Snow Goose (2) Canada Goose (6) American Wigeon (1) American Black Duck (31) Mallard (348) Green-winged Teal (5) Ruddy Duck (7) Common Loon (4) Double-crested Cormorant (2843) Great Blue Heron (100) Great Egret (5) Snowy Egret (16) Cattle Egret (16) Black-crowned Night Heron (2) Glossy Ibis (4) Osprey (55) Bald Eagle (4) Northern Harrier (1) Peregrine Falcon (1) Virginia Rail (2) Black-bellied Plover (5) Semipalmated Plover (43) Killdeer (29) American Oystercatcher (2) Black-necked Stilt (12) Greater Yellowlegs (9) Lesser Yellowlegs (83) Willet (15) Spotted Sandpiper (2) Sanderling (1) Semipalmated Sandpiper (75) Least Sandpiper (1833) Dunlin (753) Stilt Sandpiper (2) Short-billed Dowitcher (11) Red-necked Phalarope (1) Herring Gull (907) Great Black-backed Gull (93) Caspian Tern (158) Royal Tern (2) Common Tern (12) Forster's Tern (17) Least Tern (20) Eastern Kingbird (2) American Crow (1) Fish Crow (16) Horned Lark (7) Purple Martin (22) Tree Swallow (53) Barn Swallow (12) Carolina Wren (1) European Starling (8) Gray Catbird (1) Yellow Warbler (3) Yellow-throated Warbler (1) Seaside Sparrow (2) Song Sparrow (1) White-throated Sparrow (1) Red-winged Blackbird (439) -- Les Roslund Easton, MD -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Re: RFI: Re: Susquehanna SP
From: Sean Stewart <sean.douglas.stewart AT gmail.com>
Date: Tue, 21 May 2013 05:45:46 -0700 (PDT)

I had 17 warbler species last Saturday at Susquehanna and three-quarters of them were heard-only. An obliging Kentucky Warbler was the most ironic sighting of the day, given their normally skulking nature. In the past I've had better looks at warblers in the park, and of my other trips there this was probably the one when I've actually seen the least. I talked to a few other birders that day and they were also finding it to be a mostly heard-only day. The birds seemed to be largely keeping out of sight, and the poor backlighting due to the weather contributed to difficulty in getting good looks. I think this year has also been different due to the overall lateness of migration. As a result, the trees were more fully leafed out than usual by the time warblers started showing up in good numbers around here. For the birds that stay in the upper story, this makes it virtually impossible to see them. For what it's worth, in the Baltimore area I've gotten some of my best actual looks at warblers in Milford Mill Park (also known as Villa Nova Park) in the Lochearn/Pikesville area. Not sure if you've birded there, but the layout of the park encourages good viewing. The trail is only a mile long and it stays close to the stream on one side and winds through very close to trees and other vegetation, often affording good looks at foraging warblers. Good birding, Sean Stewart Baltimore, MD On Monday, May 20, 2013 7:54:35 PM UTC-4, Benjamin DeHaven wrote: > A question that has been bothering me (and likely others as well) is: on a super impressive warbler list like this, what portion would you say was heard only? I was there this afternoon and got 2 Prothonotary and 1 Red-eyed Vireo. No other warbler or Vireo. Just curious how much is ears over eyes. Thank you! > > > > Benjamin DeHaven > > Timonium, Maryland > > > mhan... AT smcm.edu wrote: > Josh Emm and I went birding at Susquehanna State Park today and met up with a number of other people. We had 21 warbler species. Between the two of us, they were: > > Ovenbird > Worm-eating Warbler > Louisiana Waterthrush > Blue-winged Warbler > Black-and-white Warbler > Prothonotary Warbler (Josh only) > Tennessee Warbler > Kentucky Warbler (Josh only) > Common Yellowthroat (Josh only) > American Redstart > Cerulean Warbler > Northern Parula > Magnolia Warbler (me only) > Bay-breasted Warbler > Blackburnian Warbler > Blackpoll Warbler > Black-throated Blue Warbler > Yellow-rumped Warbler > Prairie Warbler (me only) > Black-throated Green Warbler > Canada Warbler (Josh only) > > Other highlights were 4 late COMMON MERGANSERS and good views of SCARLET TANAGER, BALTIMORE ORIOLE, and YELLOW-THROATED VIREO. > > The SNOWY EGRET was continuing at Swan Harbor around 3:15pm, as well as 18 SEMIPALMATED PLOVERS. > > ---Matt Anthony > Bel Air > > > Benjamin DeHaven > > Timonium, Maryland > > www.dajdesignsphotography.com -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Prince George's County Big Day, 5/19
From: Robert Ostrowski <rjostrowski AT gmail.com>
Date: Tue, 21 May 2013 08:45:47 -0400

Even though hectic schedules postponed our target day to an unreasonably late date for a Big Day, my brothers Mike and Tom joined me for one anyway last Sunday. As expected, migrant warblers were really tough to come by, but we did manage to find a striking Blackburnian Warbler, a Magnolia Warbler, two Yellow-rumped Warblers, and a Canada Warbler, among the plentiful breeders and Blackpolls, so we can't complain. We began in the southwest part of the county, along the Potomac River, and made our way north before crossing to the east side of the county and working our way down to the Charles line. We found 117 species but, due to 5% birds, our official total was docked two to 115. Some of our highlights included: All three merganser species! Hooded Merganser - 1 - seen in a drainage pond in between the beltway and a ramp. This little pond isn't much, but it's not far from my work, so I see it every few days for a couple seconds as I drive by. There had been a straggling Lesser Scaup present into early May, so I decided it'd be worth exiting the beltway and then getting back on, just to take a quick look. No Lesser Scaup, but a female Hooded Merganser popped up from her dive just before the water went out of view. Common Merganser - 1 - female resting on a sandbar at Bladensburg Waterfront Park. I've seen a lone female here a few times in the warmer months, but not since 20 Jun 2010, so this was a great surprise. Red-breasted Merganser - 1 - male feeding on the edge of the mudflats at Oxon Cove. We hadn't planned to stop here because of the amount of walking involved, but we couldn't pass it up once we noticed the extensive mudflats while driving on Rt. 295. This is only my second record of this species in PG for May, and it's easily my new late date for the region. Least Bitten - 1 - calling from the CADT tower at Merkle Wildlife Sanctuary Yellow-crowned Night-Heron - 2 - adults flying over the Anacostia, saving us a time consuming detour later. Least Sandpiper - 11 - Oxon Cove Common Nighthawk - 1 - seen in the late afternoon at Milltown Landing Red-headed Woodpecker - 2 Willow Flycatcher - 1 - Mellwood Rd. Common Raven - 2 - sitting on the Rocky Gorge dam in the rainy weather Cliff Swallow - 1 - bird perched on a snag at National Colonial Farm, again, sitting out the rain. Finally, a personal record in the county away from the breeders at Rocky Gorge. Kentucky Warblers - 2 - singles on both sides of the county Savannah Sparrow - 1 - lingering at Piscataway Park Swamp Sparrow - 2 - one calling from the swamp at Piscataway Park and another seen at the National Colonial Farm. Bobolink - 9 - at three different locations All in all a pretty good day. We essentially cleaned up on all the breeders and added a handful of stragglers and migrants to get our total. As usual, marsh and night birds did not help us out very much. It would not have been too surprising to add a couple owls, a rail or two, and a Whip-poor-whil (we checked Fran Uhler on both ends of the day, but the weather wasn't great for singing), bringing our total over my personal county Big Day record. Who knows what where we would've ended up on a good migrant day. Our worst miss? House Wren. We just barely avoided missing Belted Kingfisher, picking it up at Cedar Haven, our last stop with even a possibility of finding it. Rob Ostrowski Silver Spring, MD -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Re: Fort Smallwood Bird
From: Hugh Vandervoort <hughva AT gmail.com>
Date: Tue, 21 May 2013 07:34:57 -0400

Great Crested Flycatcher? On Tue, May 21, 2013 at 7:20 AM, Dean Mahlstedt wrote: > I was down at Fort Smallwood Park in Pasadena on Sunday morning at 7AM. > During the walk, I encountered a bird that I could not clearly identify. > He was sitting at the top of a tree for the longest time and had a single > note call that reminded me of a loud cricket. I didn't have a > camera...Grrrrrr! It had a forked tail with a solid creamy chest and a > dark head. It was probably 7-8". It flew to a nearby tree, then back to > the other. This went on for 20 minutes. During this time, two other > birders came by and none of us could identify it. Very frustrating. We > think it may have been some type of flycatcher? I had seen lots of Eastern > Kingbirds that day but this wasn't one of them. Any clues as to what we > may have been seeing? > > Dean > Overlea, MD. > > -- > -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google > Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. > To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on > the web at http://www.mdbirding.com > Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to > mdbirding AT googlegroups.com > > > -- My Birding Blog http://hughvandervoort.com/wordpress/ -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Fort Smallwood Bird
From: Dean Mahlstedt <birdingboyy AT gmail.com>
Date: Tue, 21 May 2013 04:20:36 -0700 (PDT)

I was down at Fort Smallwood Park in Pasadena on Sunday morning at 7AM. During the walk, I encountered a bird that I could not clearly identify. He was sitting at the top of a tree for the longest time and had a single note call that reminded me of a loud cricket. I didn't have a camera...Grrrrrr! It had a forked tail with a solid creamy chest and a dark head. It was probably 7-8". It flew to a nearby tree, then back to the other. This went on for 20 minutes. During this time, two other birders came by and none of us could identify it. Very frustrating. We think it may have been some type of flycatcher? I had seen lots of Eastern Kingbirds that day but this wasn't one of them. Any clues as to what we may have been seeing? Dean Overlea, MD. -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Fort Smallwood Park Hawkwatch Monday, May 20, 2013 Two Mississippi Kites
From: susiericc AT comcast.net
Date: Tue, 21 May 2013 02:32:56 +0000 (UTC)

Fort Smallwood Park Pasadena, Maryland, USA Daily Raptor Counts: May 20, 2013 Species Day's Count Month Total Season Total Black Vulture 0 31 532 Turkey Vulture 45 787 7172 Osprey 2 61 507 Bald Eagle 7 58 133 Northern Harrier 0 10 69 Sharp-shinned Hawk 1 75 845 Cooper's Hawk 1 28 268 Northern Goshawk 0 0 0 Red-shouldered Hawk 0 1 256 Broad-winged Hawk 11 279 393 Red-tailed Hawk 0 38 241 Rough-legged Hawk 0 0 0 Golden Eagle 0 0 1 American Kestrel 0 2 273 Merlin 0 5 39 Peregrine Falcon 0 2 4 Unknown Accipiter 0 4 14 Unknown Buteo 0 2 8 Unknown Falcon 0 0 1 Unknown Eagle 0 0 0 Unknown Raptor 2 8 17 Mississippi Kite 2 4 4 Total: 71 1395 10777 Observation start time: 10:00 am Observation end time: 4:30 pm Daylight Savings Time Total observation time: 6.5 hours Official Counter Sue Ricciardi Observers: Ralph Geuder Weather: Mostly cloudy with an abundance of dark clouds but also partly cloudy patches; 68-77 degrees; poor to fair visibility; winds light, mostly from the SW, 0-9 mph Raptor Observations: Birds were flying when the partly cloudy patches appeared. Two Mississippi Kites, traveling together with vultures and a broad-wing, appeared at 1:58 daylight time. They were fairly high and flew directly north without tarrying. With the poor light conditions, aging was difficult, but the one most well seen appeared to be an adult. Non-raptor Observations: The pair of flickers, which had previously yielded the hole they were excavating to a pair of Tree Swallows, were back at the hole today. Unfortunately, starlings challenged the flickers and seemed to be in control at the end of the day. Meanwhile the Tree Swallows were interested in a hole nearby. Stay tuned. Complete ebird report: http://ebird.org/ebird/view/checklist?subID=S14190713 Report submitted by Sue Ricciardi ( susiericc AT comcast.net ) Fort Smallwood Park information may be found at: http://www.mdbirds.org/sites/mdsites/hawks/hawkwatch.html Site Description: Fort Smallwood Park is located on the western shore of Chesapeake Bay at the mouth of the Patapsco River, 11 miles south of Baltimore, MD. Best winds are from the southwest. The Park is closed to visitors on Wednesdays. -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: C&O Canal: Great Falls
From: Donald Sweig <skybirds.d AT gmail.com>
Date: Mon, 20 May 2013 21:57:51 -0400

Stopped by the C&O Canal at Great Falls for about an hour, late this afternoon. Saw one of the young eagles, now as large as an adult, walking around the nest, stretching it's wing. Also several bright Baltimore Orioles on the top of the trees being lit up by the bright afternoon sun. Also Orchard Orioles, Great Crested flycatchers, Scarlet Tanager, Warbling Vireos, Eastern Kingbird, and about 8 or 10 nighthawks. Beautiful place to be on a beautiful afternoon. Donald Sweig Falls Church, Va. Sent from my iPad -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Re: Hart-Miller Island, 05/20/13
From: Kevin Graff <keyweststyle2001 AT gmail.com>
Date: Mon, 20 May 2013 21:27:00 -0400

correction was 43 semipalmated sandpipers, not 33. > Semipalmated Sandpiper – 33 > > Kevin Graff > Jarrettsville, MD > KeyWeststyle2001 AT gmail.com -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Hart-Miller Island, 05/20/13
From: Kevin Graff <keyweststyle2001 AT gmail.com>
Date: Mon, 20 May 2013 21:16:57 -0400

05/20/13 – 715am-3pm Hart-Miller Island, Essex, Baltimore Co., MD WEATHER: Overcast/MC, 66-74 degrees, SSE 2K- SE 4K OBSERVERS: Kevin Graff, John Landers Canada Goose – 24 (18 adults, 6 goslings) Wood Duck – 7 Gadwall – 2 (pair) American Black Duck – 1 (drake) Mallard – 33 Lesser Scaup – 1 (drake) Ruddy Duck – 30 *RED-THROATED LOON – 1 (trailing Common Loon toward NE) Common Loon – 4 Pied-billed Grebe – 3 Double-crested Cormorant – 16 Great Blue Heron – 10 Great Egret – 2 Snowy Egret – 7 Osprey – 11 Bald Eagle – 1 (immature) Northern Harrier – 1 Peregrine Falcon – 1 American Coot – 1 Black-bellied Plover – 132 Semipalmated Plover – 4 Killdeer – 8 *BLACK-NECKED STILT – 1 Spotted Sandpiper – 9 Lesser Yellowlegs – 1 *RUDDY TURNSTONE – 2 *SANDERLING – 1 Semipalmated Sandpiper – 33 Least Sandpiper – 14 Peep sp – 5 *WHITE-RUMPED SANDPIPER – 1 Dunlin – 9 *BONAPARTE'S GULL – 1 (1st summer) Laughing Gull – 3 (1 breeding plumage adult, 2 1st summer) Ring-billed Gull – 39 Herring Gull – 22 Great Black-backed Gull – 62 Least Tern – 1 Caspian Tern – 153 Common Tern – 4 (2 breeding plumage adults, 2 1st summer) Forster’s Tern – 1 (non-breeding adult) Mourning Dove – 5 Yellow-billed Cuckoo – 1 Downy Woodpecker – 1 Willow Flycatcher – 1 Empid fly – 1 Great Crested Flycatcher – 1 Eastern Kingbird – 7 Red-eyed Vireo – 2 Fish Crow – 4 Purple Martin – 1 Tree Swallow – 16 Barn Swallow – 26 Carolina Chickadee – 1 Carolina Wren – 2 Marsh Wren – 2 Wood Thrush – 2 American Robin – 1 Gray Catbird – 8 European Starling – 11 Cedar Waxwing – 10 Black-and-white Warbler – 1 *TENNESSEE WARBLER – 1 Common Yellowthroat – 46 American Redstart – 3 Northern Parula – 3 Magnolia Warbler – 1 Blackpoll Warbler – 4 Yellow Warbler – 13 Chestnut-sided Warbler – 1 Black-throated Blue Warbler – 2 Yellow-rumped Warbler – 2 Savannah Sparrow – 2 Song Sparrow – 3 Swamp Sparrow – 2 White-throated Sparrow – 3 *WHITE-CROWNED SPARROW – 1 (adult) Northern Cardinal – 7 Blue Grosbeak – 4 Indigo Bunting – 2 Red-winged Blackbird – 81 Common Grackle – 8 Brown-headed Cowbird – 9 Orchard Oriole – 12 House Finch – 4 American Goldfinch – 11 SPECIES: 84 INDIVIDUALS: 991 MAMMALS Red Fox (fresh tracks) Raccoon (fresh tracks) White-tailed Deer (fresh tracks) BUTTERFLIES Black Swallowtail – 5 Spicebush Swallowtail – 1 Cabbage White – 2 Orange Sulphur – 3 Cloudless Sulphur – 1 Painted Lady – 1 Pearl Crescent – 3 Silver-spotted Skipper – 1 Common Sootywing – 2 Wild Indigo Duskywing – 1 DRAGONFLIES Common Green Darner – 3 Black Saddlebags – 2 MOTHS Eastern Tent Caterpillar – 50+ BEETLES Clover Stem Borer – 2 Multi-colored Asian Lady Beetle – 1 **next survey will be this Sat for MOS conference all-day 4+-mile trip** Kevin Graff Jarrettsville, MD KeyWeststyle2001 AT gmail.com -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Re: Interesting Loon Encounter near Violette's Lock
From: Tony Heatwole <tony AT ajheatwole.com>
Date: Mon, 20 May 2013 17:59:21 -0700 (PDT)

Could the Common Loon have been stranded? They need a fair amount of water to take off from. Tony Heatwole Rockville, MD -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Ol' 95 (Red Knot).
From: Paul Noell <myconut AT verizon.net>
Date: Mon, 20 May 2013 19:58:27 -0400

A birding trip to Delaware Bay, led by Walter Ellison, in admittedly dim hopes of spotting this doughty bird banded some 20 years ago. It's estimated it has flown over the years the equivalent of the distance to the moon and half way back. By my rough calculations (approx. 240,000 mi. avg. dist.) that comes out to 360,000 miles! Of course, we did see Red Knots and all were highly prized. Who knows? Maybe we DID see ol' 95, but the attached pic at Mispillion Light will have to suffice. At the other end of the spectrum, there were TONS of Osprey, among lots of birds. Well done, Walter. Paul Noell Balto MD -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: RFI: Re: Susquehanna SP
From: Benjamin DeHaven <benjamindehaven AT dajdesignsphotography.com>
Date: Mon, 20 May 2013 19:54:35 -0400

A question that has been bothering me (and likely others as well) is: on a super impressive warbler list like this, what portion would you say was heard only? I was there this afternoon and got 2 Prothonotary and 1 Red-eyed Vireo. No other warbler or Vireo. Just curious how much is ears over eyes. Thank you! Benjamin DeHaven Timonium, Maryland mhanthony AT smcm.edu wrote: >Josh Emm and I went birding at Susquehanna State Park today and met up >with a number of other people. We had 21 warbler species. Between the >two of us, they were: > >Ovenbird >Worm-eating Warbler >Louisiana Waterthrush >Blue-winged Warbler >Black-and-white Warbler >Prothonotary Warbler (Josh only) >Tennessee Warbler >Kentucky Warbler (Josh only) >Common Yellowthroat (Josh only) >American Redstart >Cerulean Warbler >Northern Parula >Magnolia Warbler (me only) >Bay-breasted Warbler >Blackburnian Warbler >Blackpoll Warbler >Black-throated Blue Warbler >Yellow-rumped Warbler >Prairie Warbler (me only) >Black-throated Green Warbler >Canada Warbler (Josh only) > >Other highlights were 4 late COMMON MERGANSERS and good views of >SCARLET TANAGER, BALTIMORE ORIOLE, and YELLOW-THROATED VIREO. > >The SNOWY EGRET was continuing at Swan Harbor around 3:15pm, as well as >18 SEMIPALMATED PLOVERS. > >---Matt Anthony >Bel Air > >-- >-- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google >Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. >To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group >on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com >Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to >mdbirding AT googlegroups.com Benjamin DeHaven Timonium, Maryland www.dajdesignsphotography.com -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Olive-sided Flycatcher
From: Warblerick <ricksussman1955 AT gmail.com>
Date: Mon, 20 May 2013 14:54:01 -0700 (PDT)

It is perched on a snag on the edge of my neighbors woods now, again. I thought I saw it first thing this morning in our yard but when I went back out with my camera it had (once again) disappeared. If anyone wants a distant view, bring a scope (or use mine at 30x)and call my cell at 301-502-0018. The light is good till roughly 7 or so, maybe a bit later. Rick Sussman Woodbine,MD -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Re: Interesting Loon Encounter near Violette's Lock
From: Rick Borchelt <rborchelt AT gmail.com>
Date: Mon, 20 May 2013 15:04:21 -0400

Interestingly enough, there was a loon out on Jug Bay calling regularly all Saturday afternoon until twilight. I watched and listened from the overlook on the Patuxent River Park PG side. Rick Borchelt http://www.leplog.com College Park, MD On May 20, 2013, at 2:11 PM, Hugh Vandervoort wrote: > I've heard this call several times, but the first time was when I was fishing at Liberty Reservoir. The bird surfaced only a short distance behind me on one of those flat calm, quiet days and gave its call Scared the crap out of me. > > > On Mon, May 20, 2013 at 7:36 AM, Steve Long wrote: >> I have not seen this particular loon, but some previous experiences make me question whether it really needs any "help." >> >> For one thing, the Potomac River just across the tow path from this loon's location if a fine take-off area for a loon. The loon must be aware of it and be able to walk to it. >> >> Another point is that while out fishing I once saw a Common Loon in the Chesapeake Bay with a baby on its back, about 2 miles off-shore near the mouth of the Choptank River. So I suspect that a few do actually breed this far south once in a while. (Maybe they are using the same realestate agent as those Canada Geese that stick around?) >> >> As for hearing loons call this far south, I only had it happen once, during late autumn or early winter while canoeing off Deep Water Point in Trippe Creek. A loon surfaced about 50 yards away and started calling with the classic vocalization. There seemed to be a loud echo from the wooded shore on the other side, or perhaps it was another loon. Either way, it seemed that the loon in front of us was responding to the echo or other bird, calling over and over. My wife was thrilled! I have always wondered why the loons in our area are not heard, and why this one was so vocal. I have always suspected that we don't normally hear them here because they normally don't breed here. Even this one that we did hear call did not repeat the performance again for the days that we remained in the area. >> >> Anyway, I hope the loon between Violet's and Riley's Locks gets enough peace to finish whatever it is doing there. I suspect that it has a nest near the tow path. Or, perhaps it was in the process of leading its young to the Potomac when Bill happened by? That area is so frequently traveled by walkers with dogs that I doubt this loon has been putting-on this performance for long at that location. >> >> Steve Long >> ----- Original Message ----- >> From: Christine Huffman >> To: Bill Hubick >> Cc: MDBirds ; Bill Sherman >> Sent: Sunday, May 19, 2013 4:54 PM >> Subject: Re: [MDBirding] Interesting Loon Encounter near Violette's Lock >> >> unfortunately that loon will not survive if it doesn't get to enough water to take off and fly. as a bird rehabber, i have had many times when a loon needed to be moved to the river or a large pond in order for it to continue it's journey. they land by mistake somewhere like a wet black topped parking lot or in a stream to o small for take off by running along. the parking ot birds often have scrapped up feet. >> to attempt the relocation, you need to cover it with a towel and grab the beak to hold it shut and keep it from lunging at you. once you get the beak under control, it is doable. >> you cold also call animal control to help or net it if you can locate the bird again. >> i am posting this in hopes that someone can find it again and manage to move it to a pond or the canal or whatever. they can move around with wings and feet, but not very well . >> >> Christine Huffman >> Great Falls, VA >> >> >> >> >> On May 19, 2013, at 4:20 PM, Bill Hubick wrote: >> >>> Hi Everyone, >>> >>> Bill Sherman shared this interesting encounter with a Common Loon near Violette's Lock: >>> >>> I thought you would enjoy hearing about a strange encounter that I experienced today. Jim MacConnell and I were birding this morning on the C&O canal starting at Pennyfield Lock and ending up at Riley's Lock (Seneca). We reached Violette's lock and were heading toward Riley's and were about 500 yards or so from Violettes. I was walking on the towpath, noticing that the canal on my right was filled with tall grass and just a little bit of water. All of a sudden a large bird came shooting out of the grass in the canal directly toward me on the towpath. I thought at first it might have been a Canada Goose trying to protect its nest, but as I backtracked to get away from whatever it was, I saw that it was a Common Loon in full breeding plumage. I was quickly moving backwards and the bird was coming at me moving using its wings and feet. I must have backed up about 25 feet when it finally stopped. It then began to vocalize while sitting on the towpath, making that Loon sound that I have only heard before in the movie On Golden Pond. The Loon stayed on the path calling and as we got closer to it, it began coming at us again. Because it was standing between us and our final destination, Riley's Lock, we needed to do something to get by and not get poked by its long sharp bill. Jim found a leafy branch and held the Loon at bay while we both passed. It then disappeared back into the canal grass. >>> >>> First, I have never seen a Common Loon in breeding plumage and have never heard it call. Second, I would have thought that all of the Loons would already be on nest much further north than here. The bird did not seem to be injured because it was very good at moving quickly using both its wings and feet. Would you have any thoughts as to why this bird might be behaving this way. It was almost as if it was trying to protect a nest, but I know they don't nest here. >>> >>> I have attached a couple of photos of the Loon. Unfortunately I didn't get any photos of it attacking me because -- it was attacking me!!! >>> >>> Now I know where the phrase CRAZY AS A LOON comes from!! >>> >>> Bill Sherman >>> >>> Photos are posted here: >>> http://www.photostockplus.com/home.php?tmpl=3&action=viewalbum&user_id=31821&album_id=1385854&event=. >>> >>> Regards, >>> >>> Bill >>> >>> Bill Hubick >>> Pasadena, Maryland >>> bill_hubick AT yahoo.com >>> http://www.billhubick.com >>> http://www.marylandbiodiversity.com >>> http://www.facebook.com/MarylandBiodiversity >>> >>> -- >>> -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. >>> To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com >>> Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com >> >> -- >> -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. >> To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com >> Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com >> >> >> -- >> -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. >> To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com >> Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com > > > > -- > My Birding Blog > http://hughvandervoort.com/wordpress/ > -- > -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. > To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com > Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com > > -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Re: Interesting Loon Encounter near Violette's Lock
From: Hugh Vandervoort <hughva AT gmail.com>
Date: Mon, 20 May 2013 14:11:59 -0400

I've heard this call several times, but the first time was when I was fishing at Liberty Reservoir. The bird surfaced only a short distance behind me on one of those flat calm, quiet days and gave its call Scared the crap out of me. On Mon, May 20, 2013 at 7:36 AM, Steve Long wrote: > ** > I have not seen this particular loon, but some previous experiences make > me question whether it really needs any "help." > > For one thing, the Potomac River just across the tow path from this loon's > location if a fine take-off area for a loon. The loon must be aware of it > and be able to walk to it. > > Another point is that while out fishing I once saw a Common Loon in the > Chesapeake Bay with a baby on its back, about 2 miles off-shore near the > mouth of the Choptank River. So I suspect that a few do actually breed > this far south once in a while. (Maybe they are using the same realestate > agent as those Canada Geese that stick around?) > > As for hearing loons call this far south, I only had it happen once, > during late autumn or early winter while canoeing off Deep Water Point in > Trippe Creek. A loon surfaced about 50 yards away and started calling with > the classic vocalization. There seemed to be a loud echo from the wooded > shore on the other side, or perhaps it was another loon. Either way, it > seemed that the loon in front of us was responding to the echo or other > bird, calling over and over. My wife was thrilled! I have always wondered > why the loons in our area are not heard, and why this one was so vocal. I > have always suspected that we don't normally hear them here because they > normally don't breed here. Even this one that we did hear call did not > repeat the performance again for the days that we remained in the area. > > Anyway, I hope the loon between Violet's and Riley's Locks gets enough > peace to finish whatever it is doing there. I suspect that it has a nest > near the tow path. Or, perhaps it was in the process of leading its young > to the Potomac when Bill happened by? That area is so frequently traveled > by walkers with dogs that I doubt this loon has been putting-on this > performance for long at that location. > > Steve Long > > ----- Original Message ----- > *From:* Christine Huffman > *To:* Bill Hubick > *Cc:* MDBirds ; Bill Sherman > *Sent:* Sunday, May 19, 2013 4:54 PM > *Subject:* Re: [MDBirding] Interesting Loon Encounter near Violette's Lock > > unfortunately that loon will not survive if it doesn't get to enough water > to take off and fly. as a bird rehabber, i have had many times when a loon > needed to be moved to the river or a large pond in order for it to continue > it's journey. they land by mistake somewhere like a wet black topped > parking lot or in a stream to o small for take off by running along. the > parking ot birds often have scrapped up feet. > to attempt the relocation, you need to cover it with a towel and grab the > beak to hold it shut and keep it from lunging at you. once you get the > beak under control, it is doable. > you cold also call animal control to help or net it if you can locate the > bird again. > i am posting this in hopes that someone can find it again and manage to > move it to a pond or the canal or whatever. they can move around with wings > and feet, but not very well . > > Christine Huffman > Great Falls, VA > > > > > On May 19, 2013, at 4:20 PM, Bill Hubick wrote: > > Hi Everyone, > > Bill Sherman shared this interesting encounter with a Common Loon near > Violette's Lock: > > I thought you would enjoy hearing about a strange encounter that I > experienced today. Jim MacConnell and I were birding this morning on the > C&O canal starting at Pennyfield Lock and ending up at Riley's Lock > (Seneca). We reached Violette's lock and were heading toward Riley's and > were about 500 yards or so from Violettes. I was walking on the towpath, > noticing that the canal on my right was filled with tall grass and just a > little bit of water. All of a sudden a large bird came shooting out of the > grass in the canal directly toward me on the towpath. I thought at first > it might have been a Canada Goose trying to protect its nest, but as I > backtracked to get away from whatever it was, I saw that it was a Common > Loon in full breeding plumage. I was quickly moving backwards and the bird > was coming at me moving using its wings and feet. I must have backed up > about 25 feet when it finally stopped. It then began to vocalize while > sitting on the towpath, making that Loon sound that I have only heard > before in the movie On Golden Pond. The Loon stayed on the path calling > and as we got closer to it, it began coming at us again. Because it was > standing between us and our final destination, Riley's Lock, we needed to > do something to get by and not get poked by its long sharp bill. Jim found > a leafy branch and held the Loon at bay while we both passed. It then > disappeared back into the canal grass. > > First, I have never seen a Common Loon in breeding plumage and have never > heard it call. Second, I would have thought that all of the Loons would > already be on nest much further north than here. The bird did not seem to > be injured because it was very good at moving quickly using both its wings > and feet. Would you have any thoughts as to why this bird might be > behaving this way. It was almost as if it was trying to protect a nest, > but I know they don't nest here. > > I have attached a couple of photos of the Loon. Unfortunately I didn't > get any photos of it attacking me because -- it was attacking me!!! > > Now I know where the phrase CRAZY AS A LOON comes from!! > > Bill Sherman > > Photos are posted here: > > http://www.photostockplus.com/home.php?tmpl=3&action=viewalbum&user_id=31821&album_id=1385854&event= > . > > Regards, > > Bill > > Bill Hubick > Pasadena, Maryland > bill_hubick AT yahoo.com > http://www.billhubick.com > http://www.marylandbiodiversity.com > http://www.facebook.com/MarylandBiodiversity > > -- > -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google > Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. > To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on > the web at http://www.mdbirding.com > Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to > mdbirding AT googlegroups.com > > > > > -- > -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google > Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. > To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on > the web at http://www.mdbirding.com > Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to > mdbirding AT googlegroups.com > > > > -- > -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google > Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. > To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on > the web at http://www.mdbirding.com > Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to > mdbirding AT googlegroups.com > > > -- My Birding Blog http://hughvandervoort.com/wordpress/ -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. 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Subject: Wheaton Regional Park and a bit of Brookside today
From: "Gail B. Mackiernan %3Ckatahdinss%40comcast.net%3E" <katahdinss AT comcast.net>
Date: Mon, 20 May 2013 14:49:12 +0000 (UTC)

Hi all, A rather gloomy morning didn't promise much, although a Blackpoll foraging in our yard's flowering locust was a hopeful sign. However my initial speciulation was correct -- a very "silent spring" day -- no evidence of migration and even the expected breeders seem very thin on the ground, with the notable exception of Baltimore Orioles. I would estimate that numbers of Ovenbirds, Red-eyed Vireos, Wood-pewees, and Acadian Flycatchers are but 1/2 to 1/3 of expected numbers based on our fairly long-term records. Wood thrushes are down a bit but probably within normal variation. I have barely heard or seen a Scarlet Tanager. Bit disheartening. I hope it is just this spring's lousy weather and unfavorable winds, but a week in St. Louis earlier this month was also virtually migrant-less. Anyway, I did see a few interesting things and also heard a dueting pair of Barred Owls. Didn't spend much time in Brookside as they were mowing. Checked all the snags for Olive-sided FC but no luck. Birds of interest below: Gail Mackiernan Colesville, MD 52 species Wood Duck 2 Red-shouldered Hawk 1 Spotted Sandpiper 1 Barred Owl 2 heard only; dueting early Chimney Swift 4 Eastern Wood-Pewee 1 Acadian Flycatcher 3 Eastern Phoebe 1 Great Crested Flycatcher 2 Warbling Vireo 1 in Brookside, on territory Red-eyed Vireo 3 very low numbers Tree Swallow 8 Barn Swallow 10 House Wren 1 Blue-gray Gnatcatcher 4 Eastern Bluebird 1 Swainson's Thrush 3 Wood Thrush 4 Gray Catbird 12 Cedar Waxwing 6 Ovenbird 2 American Redstart 1 Northern Parula 1 Blackpoll Warbler 1 Eastern Towhee 3 Chipping Sparrow 6 Scarlet Tanager 1 heard only Orchard Oriole 1 Baltimore Oriole 4 -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Rock Creek Park, Monday 5/20/13
From: Wallace Kornack <wallace AT kornack.com>
Date: Mon, 20 May 2013 10:19:40 -0400

This morning (5/20) at Rock Creek Park…. ----Birds seen and/or heard: Mourning Dove 3 Chimney Swift 10 Red-bellied Woodpecker Downy Woodpecker Northern Flicker Eastern Wood-Pewee 2 Acadian Flycatcher Great Crested Flycatcher 2 Yellow-throated Vireo Red-eyed Vireo 3 American Crow 5 Barn Swallow 3 swallow sp. 3 Carolina Chickadee Tufted Titmouse 5 White-breasted Nuthatch Carolina Wren Gray-cheeked Thrush AT nature center (Jim) Swainson's Thrush 3 Wood Thrush 5 American Robin 20+ Gray Catbird 2 Cedar Waxwing 10 Ovenbird American Redstart Blackpoll Warbler 4 Eastern Towhee Chipping Sparrow 3 Scarlet Tanager 2 Northern Cardinal 3 Common Grackle Brown-headed Cowbird 6 Baltimore Oriole 3 American Goldfinch 3 House Sparrow Observers: Bill Butler, Jim Lemert, Sharon Forsyth, David Molton Have Fun Birding! Wallace Kornack Washington DC -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Rohrersville 5.18-19.13
From: Frank Boyle <ravenfrank AT gmail.com>
Date: Mon, 20 May 2013 09:05:53 -0400

The Catbirds are back, and courting. The Brown Thrashers have set up nests, along with the resident Northern mockingbirds. Still have Pine Siskins in dwindling numbers. The Rose-breasted Grosbeak females were here (2) but no males this weekend. The Purple Finches have apparently moved on. Black-and-white Warbler made a nice appearance. I am hearing a Cuckoo out on the edge of our property in the cherry trees right now, I suspect it is a Yellow-billed. American Goldfinches, Chipping Sparrows and even Field Sparrows are consuming bird seed and suet (the Field Sparrows!) faster than we can keep up with. Good Birding, Frank Boyle Rohrersville, MD Sent from my iPhone -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Re: Interesting Loon Encounter near Violette's Lock
From: Paul Noell <myconut AT verizon.net>
Date: Mon, 20 May 2013 08:53:45 -0400

I have birded MD since 1970 and did not find it unusual to hear the occasional loon call when in the area. I kinda liked it. Paul Noell Balto MD Sent from my Verizon Wireless 4G LTE DROID Bob Ringler wrote: >Steve, > > Please pardon my abruptness but I feel that I must take exception and refute everything you said about Common Loons. For starters the loon in question may not know where the river is. If it came down in an unlikely location unintentionally it is likely isolated from seeing the river. Secondly, loons don't walk. They are extremely top-heavy because the legs are placed so far to the rear of the bird. Even more astounding is your alleged sighting of a loon with a baby on its back in Chesapeake Bay two miles offshore! Common Loons nest on large undisturbed lakes not on the shores of the Bay, or in the C&O Canal. I don't know what you saw but I will bet it was not a loon with young. Last it is not unusual though not frequent to hear the wail of a Common Loon in Maryland. > > Please don't consider this an angry diatribe. My concern is that misconceptions may be widely broadcast. If I have made any misstatements I hope someone will correct me. > > > >On Mon, May 20, 2013 at 7:36 AM, Steve Long wrote: > >I have not seen this particular loon, but some previous experiences make me question whether it really needs any "help." > > > >For one thing, the Potomac River just across the tow path from this loon's location if a fine take-off area for a loon. The loon must be aware of it and be able to walk to it. > > > >Another point is that while out fishing I once saw a Common Loon in the Chesapeake Bay with a baby on its back, about 2 miles off-shore near the mouth of the Choptank River. So I suspect that a few do actually breed this far south once in a while. (Maybe they are using the same realestate agent as those Canada Geese that stick around?) > > > >As for hearing loons call this far south, I only had it happen once, during late autumn or early winter while canoeing off Deep Water Point in Trippe Creek. A loon surfaced about 50 yards away and started calling with the classic vocalization. There seemed to be a loud echo from the wooded shore on the other side, or perhaps it was another loon. Either way, it seemed that the loon in front of us was responding to the echo or other bird, calling over and over. My wife was thrilled! I have always wondered why the loons in our area are not heard, and why this one was so vocal. I have always suspected that we don't normally hear them here because they normally don't breed here. Even this one that we did hear call did not repeat the performance again for the days that we remained in the area. > > > >Anyway, I hope the loon between Violet's and Riley's Locks gets enough peace to finish whatever it is doing there. I suspect that it has a nest near the tow path. Or, perhaps it was in the process of leading its young to the Potomac when Bill happened by? That area is so frequently traveled by walkers with dogs that I doubt this loon has been putting-on this performance for long at that location. > > > >Steve Long > >----- Original Message ----- > >From: Christine Huffman > >To: Bill Hubick > >Cc: MDBirds ; Bill Sherman > >Sent: Sunday, May 19, 2013 4:54 PM > >Subject: Re: [MDBirding] Interesting Loon Encounter near Violette's Lock > > >unfortunately that loon will not survive if it doesn't get to enough water to take off and fly. as a bird rehabber, i have had many times when a loon needed to be moved to the river or a large pond in order for it to continue it's journey. they land by mistake somewhere like a wet black topped parking lot or in a stream to o small for take off by running along. the parking ot birds often have scrapped up feet. > >to attempt the relocation, you need to cover it with a towel and grab the beak to hold it shut and keep it from lunging at you. once you get the beak under control, it is doable. > >you cold also call animal control to help or net it if you can locate the bird again. > >i am posting this in hopes that someone can find it again and manage to move it to a pond or the canal or whatever. they can move around with wings and feet, but not very well . > > >Christine Huffman > >Great Falls, VA > > > > > >On May 19, 2013, at 4:20 PM, Bill Hubick wrote: > > >Hi Everyone, > >Bill Sherman shared this interesting encounter with a Common Loon near Violette's Lock: > >I thought you would enjoy hearing about a strange encounter that I experienced today. Jim MacConnell and I were birding this morning on the C&O canal starting at Pennyfield Lock and ending up at Riley's Lock (Seneca). We reached Violette's lock and were heading toward Riley's and were about 500 yards or so from Violettes. I was walking on the towpath, noticing that the canal on my right was filled with tall grass and just a little bit of water. All of a sudden a large bird came shooting out of the grass in the canal directly toward me on the towpath. I thought at first it might have been a Canada Goose trying to protect its nest, but as I backtracked to get away from whatever it was, I saw that it was a Common Loon in full breeding plumage. I was quickly moving backwards and the bird was coming at me moving using its wings and feet. I must have backed up about 25 feet when it finally stopped. It then began to vocalize while sitting on the towpath, making that Loon sound that I have only heard before in the movie On Golden Pond. The Loon stayed on the path calling and as we got closer to it, it began coming at us again. Because it was standing between us and our final destination, Riley's Lock, we needed to do something to get by and not get poked by its long sharp bill. Jim found a leafy branch and held the Loon at bay while we both passed. It then disappeared back into the canal grass. > >First, I have never seen a Common Loon in breeding plumage and have never heard it call. Second, I would have thought that all of the Loons would already be on nest much further north than here. The bird did not seem to be injured because it was very good at moving quickly using both its wings and feet. Would you have any thoughts as to why this bird might be behaving this way. It was almost as if it was trying to protect a nest, but I know they don't nest here. > >I have attached a couple of photos of the Loon. Unfortunately I didn't get any photos of it attacking me because -- it was attacking me!!! > >Now I know where the phrase CRAZY AS A LOON comes from!! > >Bill Sherman > > >Photos are posted here: >http://www.photostockplus.com/home.php?tmpl=3&action=viewalbum&user_id=31821&album_id=1385854&event=. > >Regards, > >Bill > > > >Bill Hubick > >Pasadena, Maryland > >bill_hubick AT yahoo.com > >http://www.billhubick.com >http://www.marylandbiodiversity.com >http://www.facebook.com/MarylandBiodiversity > > >-- >-- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. >To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com >Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com > > > > >-- >-- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. >To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com >Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com > > > >-- >-- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. >To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com >Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com > > > > > > >-- > >Bob Ringler > >Eldersburg MD > >-- >-- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. >To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com >Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com > > -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. 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Subject: Re: Interesting Loon Encounter near Violette's Lock
From: Christine Huffman <crhuff55 AT aol.com>
Date: Mon, 20 May 2013 08:40:30 -0400

i had sent an email to steve about an hour ago stating the exact same thing. i have had a federal bird rehab license for over 20 years . i have had many, many water birds including loons and ruddy ducks who cannot walk and just use their wings to try to propel themselves along. also, every loon that i have had in captivity for overnight or even a few hours, breeding or not, have called out. have had many during fall migration when pavement is wet - about ten years ago right before xmas, we had a major event of juvenile common loons - one was at the vienna metro - anyway the bird will not make it unless someone else finds it, calls someone to get advice - or put a towel over its head, gets control of the beak and gets it to open water - they re heavy but this is very doable - hopefully if it is in the same area , and someone sees it, it will be saved Christine Huffman Great Falls, VA On May 20, 2013, at 8:32 AM, Bob Ringler wrote: > Steve, > Please pardon my abruptness but I feel that I must take exception and refute everything you said about Common Loons. For starters the loon in question may not know where the river is. If it came down in an unlikely location unintentionally it is likely isolated from seeing the river. Secondly, loons don't walk. They are extremely top-heavy because the legs are placed so far to the rear of the bird. Even more astounding is your alleged sighting of a loon with a baby on its back in Chesapeake Bay two miles offshore! Common Loons nest on large undisturbed lakes not on the shores of the Bay, or in the C&O Canal. I don't know what you saw but I will bet it was not a loon with young. Last it is not unusual though not frequent to hear the wail of a Common Loon in Maryland. > Please don't consider this an angry diatribe. My concern is that misconceptions may be widely broadcast. If I have made any misstatements I hope someone will correct me. > > > On Mon, May 20, 2013 at 7:36 AM, Steve Long wrote: > I have not seen this particular loon, but some previous experiences make me question whether it really needs any "help." > > For one thing, the Potomac River just across the tow path from this loon's location if a fine take-off area for a loon. The loon must be aware of it and be able to walk to it. > > Another point is that while out fishing I once saw a Common Loon in the Chesapeake Bay with a baby on its back, about 2 miles off-shore near the mouth of the Choptank River. So I suspect that a few do actually breed this far south once in a while. (Maybe they are using the same realestate agent as those Canada Geese that stick around?) > > As for hearing loons call this far south, I only had it happen once, during late autumn or early winter while canoeing off Deep Water Point in Trippe Creek. A loon surfaced about 50 yards away and started calling with the classic vocalization. There seemed to be a loud echo from the wooded shore on the other side, or perhaps it was another loon. Either way, it seemed that the loon in front of us was responding to the echo or other bird, calling over and over. My wife was thrilled! I have always wondered why the loons in our area are not heard, and why this one was so vocal. I have always suspected that we don't normally hear them here because they normally don't breed here. Even this one that we did hear call did not repeat the performance again for the days that we remained in the area. > > Anyway, I hope the loon between Violet's and Riley's Locks gets enough peace to finish whatever it is doing there. I suspect that it has a nest near the tow path. Or, perhaps it was in the process of leading its young to the Potomac when Bill happened by? That area is so frequently traveled by walkers with dogs that I doubt this loon has been putting-on this performance for long at that location. > > Steve Long > ----- Original Message ----- > From: Christine Huffman > To: Bill Hubick > Cc: MDBirds ; Bill Sherman > Sent: Sunday, May 19, 2013 4:54 PM > Subject: Re: [MDBirding] Interesting Loon Encounter near Violette's Lock > > unfortunately that loon will not survive if it doesn't get to enough water to take off and fly. as a bird rehabber, i have had many times when a loon needed to be moved to the river or a large pond in order for it to continue it's journey. they land by mistake somewhere like a wet black topped parking lot or in a stream to o small for take off by running along. the parking ot birds often have scrapped up feet. > to attempt the relocation, you need to cover it with a towel and grab the beak to hold it shut and keep it from lunging at you. once you get the beak under control, it is doable. > you cold also call animal control to help or net it if you can locate the bird again. > i am posting this in hopes that someone can find it again and manage to move it to a pond or the canal or whatever. they can move around with wings and feet, but not very well . > > Christine Huffman > Great Falls, VA > > > > > On May 19, 2013, at 4:20 PM, Bill Hubick wrote: > >> Hi Everyone, >> >> Bill Sherman shared this interesting encounter with a Common Loon near Violette's Lock: >> >> I thought you would enjoy hearing about a strange encounter that I experienced today. Jim MacConnell and I were birding this morning on the C&O canal starting at Pennyfield Lock and ending up at Riley's Lock (Seneca). We reached Violette's lock and were heading toward Riley's and were about 500 yards or so from Violettes. I was walking on the towpath, noticing that the canal on my right was filled with tall grass and just a little bit of water. All of a sudden a large bird came shooting out of the grass in the canal directly toward me on the towpath. I thought at first it might have been a Canada Goose trying to protect its nest, but as I backtracked to get away from whatever it was, I saw that it was a Common Loon in full breeding plumage. I was quickly moving backwards and the bird was coming at me moving using its wings and feet. I must have backed up about 25 feet when it finally stopped. It then began to vocalize while sitting on the towpath, making that Loon sound that I have only heard before in the movie On Golden Pond. The Loon stayed on the path calling and as we got closer to it, it began coming at us again. Because it was standing between us and our final destination, Riley's Lock, we needed to do something to get by and not get poked by its long sharp bill. Jim found a leafy branch and held the Loon at bay while we both passed. It then disappeared back into the canal grass. >> >> First, I have never seen a Common Loon in breeding plumage and have never heard it call. Second, I would have thought that all of the Loons would already be on nest much further north than here. The bird did not seem to be injured because it was very good at moving quickly using both its wings and feet. Would you have any thoughts as to why this bird might be behaving this way. It was almost as if it was trying to protect a nest, but I know they don't nest here. >> >> I have attached a couple of photos of the Loon. Unfortunately I didn't get any photos of it attacking me because -- it was attacking me!!! >> >> Now I know where the phrase CRAZY AS A LOON comes from!! >> >> Bill Sherman >> >> Photos are posted here: >> http://www.photostockplus.com/home.php?tmpl=3&action=viewalbum&user_id=31821&album_id=1385854&event=. >> >> Regards, >> >> Bill >> >> Bill Hubick >> Pasadena, Maryland >> bill_hubick AT yahoo.com >> http://www.billhubick.com >> http://www.marylandbiodiversity.com >> http://www.facebook.com/MarylandBiodiversity >> >> -- >> -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. >> To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com >> Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com >> >> > > > -- > -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. > To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com > Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com > > > > -- > -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. > To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com > Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com > > > > > > -- > Bob Ringler > Eldersburg MD > > -- > -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. > To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com > Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com > > -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. 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Subject: Re: Re: Best non-avain yard sighting of the day
From: Leslie Starr <turnstar AT aol.com>
Date: Mon, 20 May 2013 08:38:53 -0400

We usually hear the blimp and the Blackpoll in our Mt. Washington yard at the same time, but were away for the weekend. Leslie Starr Baltimore > > -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Re: Interesting Loon Encounter near Violette's Lock
From: Bob Ringler <ringler.bob AT gmail.com>
Date: Mon, 20 May 2013 08:32:40 -0400

Steve, Please pardon my abruptness but I feel that I must take exception and refute everything you said about Common Loons. For starters the loon in question may not know where the river is. If it came down in an unlikely location unintentionally it is likely isolated from seeing the river. Secondly, loons don't walk. They are extremely top-heavy because the legs are placed so far to the rear of the bird. Even more astounding is your alleged sighting of a loon with a baby on its back in Chesapeake Bay two miles offshore! Common Loons nest on large undisturbed lakes not on the shores of the Bay, or in the C&O Canal. I don't know what you saw but I will bet it was not a loon with young. Last it is not unusual though not frequent to hear the wail of a Common Loon in Maryland. Please don't consider this an angry diatribe. My concern is that misconceptions may be widely broadcast. If I have made any misstatements I hope someone will correct me. On Mon, May 20, 2013 at 7:36 AM, Steve Long wrote: > ** > I have not seen this particular loon, but some previous experiences make > me question whether it really needs any "help." > > For one thing, the Potomac River just across the tow path from this loon's > location if a fine take-off area for a loon. The loon must be aware of it > and be able to walk to it. > > Another point is that while out fishing I once saw a Common Loon in the > Chesapeake Bay with a baby on its back, about 2 miles off-shore near the > mouth of the Choptank River. So I suspect that a few do actually breed > this far south once in a while. (Maybe they are using the same realestate > agent as those Canada Geese that stick around?) > > As for hearing loons call this far south, I only had it happen once, > during late autumn or early winter while canoeing off Deep Water Point in > Trippe Creek. A loon surfaced about 50 yards away and started calling with > the classic vocalization. There seemed to be a loud echo from the wooded > shore on the other side, or perhaps it was another loon. Either way, it > seemed that the loon in front of us was responding to the echo or other > bird, calling over and over. My wife was thrilled! I have always wondered > why the loons in our area are not heard, and why this one was so vocal. I > have always suspected that we don't normally hear them here because they > normally don't breed here. Even this one that we did hear call did not > repeat the performance again for the days that we remained in the area. > > Anyway, I hope the loon between Violet's and Riley's Locks gets enough > peace to finish whatever it is doing there. I suspect that it has a nest > near the tow path. Or, perhaps it was in the process of leading its young > to the Potomac when Bill happened by? That area is so frequently traveled > by walkers with dogs that I doubt this loon has been putting-on this > performance for long at that location. > > Steve Long > > ----- Original Message ----- > *From:* Christine Huffman > *To:* Bill Hubick > *Cc:* MDBirds ; Bill Sherman > *Sent:* Sunday, May 19, 2013 4:54 PM > *Subject:* Re: [MDBirding] Interesting Loon Encounter near Violette's Lock > > unfortunately that loon will not survive if it doesn't get to enough water > to take off and fly. as a bird rehabber, i have had many times when a loon > needed to be moved to the river or a large pond in order for it to continue > it's journey. they land by mistake somewhere like a wet black topped > parking lot or in a stream to o small for take off by running along. the > parking ot birds often have scrapped up feet. > to attempt the relocation, you need to cover it with a towel and grab the > beak to hold it shut and keep it from lunging at you. once you get the > beak under control, it is doable. > you cold also call animal control to help or net it if you can locate the > bird again. > i am posting this in hopes that someone can find it again and manage to > move it to a pond or the canal or whatever. they can move around with wings > and feet, but not very well . > > Christine Huffman > Great Falls, VA > > > > > On May 19, 2013, at 4:20 PM, Bill Hubick wrote: > > Hi Everyone, > > Bill Sherman shared this interesting encounter with a Common Loon near > Violette's Lock: > > I thought you would enjoy hearing about a strange encounter that I > experienced today. Jim MacConnell and I were birding this morning on the > C&O canal starting at Pennyfield Lock and ending up at Riley's Lock > (Seneca). We reached Violette's lock and were heading toward Riley's and > were about 500 yards or so from Violettes. I was walking on the towpath, > noticing that the canal on my right was filled with tall grass and just a > little bit of water. All of a sudden a large bird came shooting out of the > grass in the canal directly toward me on the towpath. I thought at first > it might have been a Canada Goose trying to protect its nest, but as I > backtracked to get away from whatever it was, I saw that it was a Common > Loon in full breeding plumage. I was quickly moving backwards and the bird > was coming at me moving using its wings and feet. I must have backed up > about 25 feet when it finally stopped. It then began to vocalize while > sitting on the towpath, making that Loon sound that I have only heard > before in the movie On Golden Pond. The Loon stayed on the path calling > and as we got closer to it, it began coming at us again. Because it was > standing between us and our final destination, Riley's Lock, we needed to > do something to get by and not get poked by its long sharp bill. Jim found > a leafy branch and held the Loon at bay while we both passed. It then > disappeared back into the canal grass. > > First, I have never seen a Common Loon in breeding plumage and have never > heard it call. Second, I would have thought that all of the Loons would > already be on nest much further north than here. The bird did not seem to > be injured because it was very good at moving quickly using both its wings > and feet. Would you have any thoughts as to why this bird might be > behaving this way. It was almost as if it was trying to protect a nest, > but I know they don't nest here. > > I have attached a couple of photos of the Loon. Unfortunately I didn't > get any photos of it attacking me because -- it was attacking me!!! > > Now I know where the phrase CRAZY AS A LOON comes from!! > > Bill Sherman > > Photos are posted here: > > http://www.photostockplus.com/home.php?tmpl=3&action=viewalbum&user_id=31821&album_id=1385854&event= > . > > Regards, > > Bill > > Bill Hubick > Pasadena, Maryland > bill_hubick AT yahoo.com > http://www.billhubick.com > http://www.marylandbiodiversity.com > http://www.facebook.com/MarylandBiodiversity > > -- > -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google > Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. > To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on > the web at http://www.mdbirding.com > Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to > mdbirding AT googlegroups.com > > > > > -- > -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google > Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. > To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on > the web at http://www.mdbirding.com > Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to > mdbirding AT googlegroups.com > > > > -- > -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google > Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. > To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on > the web at http://www.mdbirding.com > Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to > mdbirding AT googlegroups.com > > > -- Bob Ringler Eldersburg MD -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Re: Interesting Loon Encounter near Violette's Lock
From: "Steve Long" <steve.long4 AT verizon.net>
Date: Mon, 20 May 2013 07:36:03 -0400

I have not seen this particular loon, but some previous experiences make me question whether it really needs any "help." For one thing, the Potomac River just across the tow path from this loon's location if a fine take-off area for a loon. The loon must be aware of it and be able to walk to it. Another point is that while out fishing I once saw a Common Loon in the Chesapeake Bay with a baby on its back, about 2 miles off-shore near the mouth of the Choptank River. So I suspect that a few do actually breed this far south once in a while. (Maybe they are using the same realestate agent as those Canada Geese that stick around?) As for hearing loons call this far south, I only had it happen once, during late autumn or early winter while canoeing off Deep Water Point in Trippe Creek. A loon surfaced about 50 yards away and started calling with the classic vocalization. There seemed to be a loud echo from the wooded shore on the other side, or perhaps it was another loon. Either way, it seemed that the loon in front of us was responding to the echo or other bird, calling over and over. My wife was thrilled! I have always wondered why the loons in our area are not heard, and why this one was so vocal. I have always suspected that we don't normally hear them here because they normally don't breed here. Even this one that we did hear call did not repeat the performance again for the days that we remained in the area. Anyway, I hope the loon between Violet's and Riley's Locks gets enough peace to finish whatever it is doing there. I suspect that it has a nest near the tow path. Or, perhaps it was in the process of leading its young to the Potomac when Bill happened by? That area is so frequently traveled by walkers with dogs that I doubt this loon has been putting-on this performance for long at that location. Steve Long ----- Original Message ----- From: Christine Huffman To: Bill Hubick Cc: MDBirds ; Bill Sherman Sent: Sunday, May 19, 2013 4:54 PM Subject: Re: [MDBirding] Interesting Loon Encounter near Violette's Lock unfortunately that loon will not survive if it doesn't get to enough water to take off and fly. as a bird rehabber, i have had many times when a loon needed to be moved to the river or a large pond in order for it to continue it's journey. they land by mistake somewhere like a wet black topped parking lot or in a stream to o small for take off by running along. the parking ot birds often have scrapped up feet. to attempt the relocation, you need to cover it with a towel and grab the beak to hold it shut and keep it from lunging at you. once you get the beak under control, it is doable. you cold also call animal control to help or net it if you can locate the bird again. i am posting this in hopes that someone can find it again and manage to move it to a pond or the canal or whatever. they can move around with wings and feet, but not very well . Christine Huffman Great Falls, VA On May 19, 2013, at 4:20 PM, Bill Hubick wrote: Hi Everyone, Bill Sherman shared this interesting encounter with a Common Loon near Violette's Lock: I thought you would enjoy hearing about a strange encounter that I experienced today. Jim MacConnell and I were birding this morning on the C&O canal starting at Pennyfield Lock and ending up at Riley's Lock (Seneca). We reached Violette's lock and were heading toward Riley's and were about 500 yards or so from Violettes. I was walking on the towpath, noticing that the canal on my right was filled with tall grass and just a little bit of water. All of a sudden a large bird came shooting out of the grass in the canal directly toward me on the towpath. I thought at first it might have been a Canada Goose trying to protect its nest, but as I backtracked to get away from whatever it was, I saw that it was a Common Loon in full breeding plumage. I was quickly moving backwards and the bird was coming at me moving using its wings and feet. I must have backed up about 25 feet when it finally stopped. It then began to vocalize while sitting on the towpath, making that Loon sound that I have only heard before in the movie On Golden Pond. The Loon stayed on the path calling and as we got closer to it, it began coming at us again. Because it was standing between us and our final destination, Riley's Lock, we needed to do something to get by and not get poked by its long sharp bill. Jim found a leafy branch and held the Loon at bay while we both passed. It then disappeared back into the canal grass. First, I have never seen a Common Loon in breeding plumage and have never heard it call. Second, I would have thought that all of the Loons would already be on nest much further north than here. The bird did not seem to be injured because it was very good at moving quickly using both its wings and feet. Would you have any thoughts as to why this bird might be behaving this way. It was almost as if it was trying to protect a nest, but I know they don't nest here. I have attached a couple of photos of the Loon. Unfortunately I didn't get any photos of it attacking me because -- it was attacking me!!! Now I know where the phrase CRAZY AS A LOON comes from!! Bill Sherman Photos are posted here: http://www.photostockplus.com/home.php?tmpl=3&action=viewalbum&user_id=31821&album_id=1385854&event=. Regards, Bill Bill Hubick Pasadena, Maryland bill_hubick AT yahoo.com http://www.billhubick.com http://www.marylandbiodiversity.com http://www.facebook.com/MarylandBiodiversity -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Re: Re: Best non-avain yard sighting of the day
From: Edward Boyd <edboyd59 AT gmail.com>
Date: Mon, 20 May 2013 07:36:22 -0400

For the last couple of years they have been mooring the blimps that come to Baltimore to provide sports coverage at Westminster Airport. They used to use Martin State exclusively but lately they've elected to go into Westminster and even Frederick. Ed Boyd Chestnut Hill Cove, MD On May 19, 2013 4:47 PM, "jflowers" wrote: > Now, That's a "Big Bird"........ Did it respond well to "playback"? > > -- > -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google > Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. > To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on > the web at http://www.mdbirding.com > Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to > mdbirding AT googlegroups.com > > > -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: Re: Sandhill Crane in Harford County
From: jflowers <artsnimages AT gmail.com>
Date: Sun, 19 May 2013 21:52:52 -0700 (PDT)

A friend and Wildlife South member took a picture of the bird in the yard. You can see it here: http://www.wildlifesouth.net/forums/showthread.php?t=4608 Jim -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com
Subject: C&O Riley's Lock to Blockhouse Point - Sunday pm
From: Dave Roberts <droberts50 AT verizon.net>
Date: Sun, 19 May 2013 18:36:59 -0700 (PDT)

At Riley's lock this afternoon a yellow-throated warbler was collecting nesting material on the ground. Good for photography! Also yellow, prothonotary warblers, and N. parula there. Between Rileys and Violettes a mute swan was feeding along the shore. This swan usually stays farther upstream. Below Blockhouse Point I found one of the previously reported summer tanagers. Also several solitary sandpipers and one spotted sandpiper on the canal there. Several common nighthawks were overhead after 6 pm. Dave Roberts Bethesda -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Group 'Maryland & DC Birding'. To view group guidelines or change email preferences, visit this group on the web at http://www.mdbirding.com Posts can be sent to the group by sending an email to mdbirding AT googlegroups.com

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