Monday, April 29, 2013

Milford Mill Warbler Walk

On a day that couldn't be any more beautiful, 14 of us enjoyed walking the loop at Milford Mill during a Chesapeake Audubon field trip. Once again this spring, Milford Mill failed to live up to its reputation as a warbler hangout. In the 3-4 years I've birded MM, this spring, so far, is the slowest in terms of migrants. Perhaps this week will be the big one. 
Great-crested Flycatcher (photo from Wikipedia)
Nevertheless, we managed to find and see some really nice birds. Probably the star of the morning was the Great Crested Flycatcher, which not only came close but did some singing as well. Other favorite birds: Parula, some good close views; Redstart, with nice singing and closeups; Black-and-White Warbler; and Nashville Warbler (2), which sang relentlessly and came close a couple of times.   (Tim Houghton)

Nashville Warber (picture from Wikipedia)

Saturday, April 20, 2013

Marsh Restoration Project at Blackwater NWR

Blackwater has been eradicating the phragmites growing in the marshes, and today about 40 adults and students planted the areas with native Smooth Cordgrass (Spartina alterniflora). 


Here we are listening to instructions from Samantha Pitts, an educator from Pickering Creek Audubon Center.

There were students from Chesapeake College, Salisbury University, and Washington College.


The Tree Swallows appreciated all the bugs we were stirring up and flew within inches of us.

Here's a close up of newly planted Spartina

There were many Great Egrets, Coots, Osprey, and Bald Eagles along Wildlife Drive.

You can observe this Osprey family on the Blackwater web cam!
Pickering Creek will be sponsoring two more Salt Marsh Restoration Days - please join them!  Advanced registration is required - call 410-822-4903.  Future dates are Saturday, May 11th from 930AM-12PM, and Thursday, May 30th from 5-7:30PM.  Pizza provided!