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Posted by Jeff Weber on 11:37:05 09/02/07
Nineteen birders joined me for an early migration walk at Bill Baggs State Park yesterday morning. There was little migrant activity so early in the season, unfortunately, but we did see several Eastern Kingbirds passing through and actively feeding on flying insects, along with a number of lingering Gray Kingbirds. Barn Swallows were everywhere, and we also had a Northern Rough-winged Swallow over the water. A Forster's Tern was the most notable seabird, and there was almost no warbler activity.
With bird life so scarce, we turned our attention to arthropods (hey. . . we had to look at something!). A Silver Argiope spider reminded us of how beautiful spiders can be, and many big Golden Orbweavers (Nephila) were actively munching on captured insects. One orbweaver was neatly wrapping up a honeybee, which made us pleased to think that there are still some around to catch. Moving along, we saw a Shamrock Orbweaver, with its pearl-like abdomen. Spider highlight of the day was a very large Banded Argiope silk-wrapping a big Green Darner dragonfly. John Boyd photographed this showdown of predators, and perhaps he'll post a photo.
What started out as a slow day for birding really picked up Saturday afternoon when Larry Manfredi helped me find Baird's Sandpiper and Buff-breasted Sandpiper west of Fla. City in the newly plowed ag. fields - both lifers for me. Brian Rapoza, Toe and Rock Jetty were there, too, and we all got killer looks. Thanks, again, Larry
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