Tuesday, April 21, 2009

April 18 / 19 - Garret Mountain

A few hours of birding each morning this weekend were highlighted by more new arrivals, and nice views of other early returnees. Raptors included Osprey, Sharp-Shinned and Broad-Winged Hawks along with the falcons of Kestrel, Merlin & Peregrine.

Yellow-Bellied Sapsucker led the charge of woodpeckers, and was followed by Red-Bellied, Downy, Hairy, and numerous Northern Flickers.

Eastern Phoebe and Blue-Headed Vireos were singing. Many Winter Wrens were seen and several Brown Creepers delighted the eyes.

April 12 - Garret Mountain

A quick visit here today resulted in some returning Spring migrants. Notables included Osprey, Ruby-Crowned and Golden Crowned Kinglets, Northern Rough-winged Swallow, Pine Warbler, Palm Warbler, Yellow-Rumped and a Louisiana Waterthrush. Sparrows were represented by Towhee, Song, Swamp, fox, and the Chipping species. A Blue-Gray Gnatcatcher was very nice to see today as well. The Pine Siskins continue here too.

A brief stop at Walker Avenue produced a pair of Blue-Winged Teal, and a Field Sparrow.