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Posted by Robin Diaz on 08:06:12 12/22/09
The birds hunkered but the birders did not! Yesterday's chilly temps, overcast skies and north breeze made birding a challenge but the dedicated and terrific teams pulled out birds one-by-one. Though actual numbers are down, the tentative species total stands at 130, the highest for this count's 10-year history. We accumulated unusual birds that need documentation, including Barn Swallow (2), Song Sparrow, La Sagra's Flycatcher and others. The wet 2009 made the restoration areas uncomfortable for sparrows, wrens and slogging birders, but not for shorebirds, including Dunlin. We are missing wintering birds like American Goldfinch and American Robin, but these are likely to be pushed down soon. However, Pine Wabler numbers increased dramatically since Thursday, probably reflecting the cold snap. Though each warbler required effort, we finished with 16 species.
The La Sagra's Flycatcher is much more shy than last Thursday when Carlos and I found it. It was glimpsed and heard several times yesterday. The best tactics are patience and to remain quiet. It still hangs out with its Great Crested buddy but there are 2 more Great Crested's near Research Road. The call is distinct (described earlier) and Sonny Bass heard it give a double-note call as well as single "wheet." If anyone gets a photo, PLEASE contact me, as our Count Week extends through December 24.
A huge THANK YOU goes to all the dedicated and enthusiastic birders and their team leaders!
The kitty tracks were near Hidden Lake and are presumed to be those of the FL Panther seen Sunday by Maria, Eva and Andy.
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