Posted by Scott Baron on March 20, 2003 at 18:44:48:
Hello, birders.
I hope you So. Florida birders don't get tired of questions from out of state birders. My friend and I have some target species that we'd like to see when we visit the Miami area, Everglades NP and the Northern Keys. We will arrive on Wed. the 26th and will leave on the 31st. I'm concerned that we'll be a little early for some breeders but I hope we'll get a mix of breeders and winter visitors. The biggest target species that we have are listed below. Can someone help me with these species?
Burrowing Owl
The ABA Guide lists them as nesting at Miami Int'l Airport, as well as the Tamiami Airport. With the current state of the world, I don't know if it's a good idea to look through airport fences with binoculars. Are the owls still at the Weeks Air Museum? Apparently this museum is at the latter airport but I feel more comfortable looking for the birds from this spot. Are there any other reliable places to look for this bird in the area?
Greater Flamingo
This is probably my most wanted. I understand the Snake Bight Trail is closed but people have been seeing them in Flamingo all winter. I know that the species was seen from the Christian Point Trail recently. Does anyone have any other tips on seeing a wild Flamingo in South Florida? What boat ride or canoe trip would be a good one to take in the Flamingo area? Or should I just check with the park rangers when I get to Flamingo?
Black-whiskered Vireo, Gray Kingbird
These two species seem to be uncommon in late March. Any good places for seeing either one of these early in migration?
Limpkin, Snail Kite
If we have time, we may go to the Shark Valley section of ENP, where I understand these two species are easier to find. Any tips on finding these elsewhere from Miami to Flamingo?
Shiny Cowbird
Are these guys still found in spring in Flamingo? Will we be too early?
Any help with these species is GREATLY appreciated. I look forward to visiting beautiful and birdy South Florida!
Scott Baron
Fairfax, Va.