Posted by Gary C. Hampton on December 15, 2003 at 22:48:44:
On December 15, 2003 at 3:00 pm Two (2) WESTERN GREBES were observed at 36X with Spotting Scope, due East of The Boat Ramps at Lover's Key State Recreation Area in the Channel just on the other side of two small shell bars in Estero Bay (DeLorme p.111, A1). They were observed for nearly One Hour feeding back and forth in the channel, occasionally preening and just floating. Their plumage is pristine, and the Yellow Bill is clearly seen on occasion. At the same site (18) AVOCETS and (65) RED-BREASTED MERGANSERS.
In the Channel by the Osprey Platform at the North end of Lover's Key, One (1) COMMON LOON feeding lazily with One (1) RED-THROATED LOON in Winter (Alternate) Plumage, Close by (175 feet or so) the North end of the Key. Bill clearly thin and upturned, bird was very much smaller than the Common Loon next to it (30 - 40 feet between them), much thinner neck, paler throat, and smaller head. Back Plumage is covered in small whitish spots, though not as prominent as some Field Guides show. The Bird was observed for twenty-five minutes as it moved steadily Northeast into Estero Bay. The Common Loon Flew out toward the Gulf Early on, leaving the Red-Throated to feed on its own. At last sighting the bird looked very similar in size to a largish Scoter, and gave that distinct impression at distance.
Behind the Holiday Inn, The Adult LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL was observed taking food (Bread!) from a Tourist while perched on the beach. We approached the bird to ten feet before we backed off, and it did not flush.
Gary C. Hampton
Sandy H. Hampton
Cape Coral, Florida
country@coconet.com