Posted by Carlos Sanchez on November 22, 2015 at 18:29:02
Elias, one of the Deering naturalists, joined me and several other birders on an early afternoon boat ride out on Biscayne Bay as part of the "Deering Goes with the Birds" event. Although the weather kept threatening to rain us out, we had a very dry and pleasant ride out on the bay with some nice birds. The main highlights were two flocks of Black Scoter flying right off the Charles Deering Estate property. They were very silhouetted due to the lighting, but Brandon Trentler managed to lighten his photographs enough to show the important fieldmarks. We also observed a Great White Heron, a small flock of Black Skimmer, and two adult Bald Eagles among the 30 or so species we observed in all. Thanks to all who participated! As a final note, flocks of Black Scoter and American Robin are already being observed in Palm Beach County and points north along coastal Florida. Redhead have just arrived at West Lake in Everglades National Park. Although the weather might be warm outside, the 'cold weather' birds are on the move. Strong northeasterly winds with this first real cold front may bring in interesting birds along the coast as well as points inland -- Thanksgiving weekend may be a good one for birding!