Yesterday there was an Eurasian wigeon and the continuing bufflehead in addition to the usual ducks in the Visitors’ Center Wetland.  There was a good diversity of ducks in the Main Pool plus 4 horned grebes, still in non-breeding plumage. We found a few yellowlegs, both lesser and greater, as well as Wilson’s snipe in Benning Marsh. It appears that we may have lost the tundra swan to a predator. We saw a huge pile of white feathers on the eastern edge of Benning Marsh.

 I have had some inquiries about the carp at the Seneca Spillway.  They are Eurasian or European carp, widely known as common carp.  They are normally 18 – 30 inches long and weigh 10 – 15 pounds, but can be much larger.  They can live 20 years or more! Here’s the deal about the “carp convention” at the spillway: The Main Pool is shallow and heats up quickly in the spring. The warm, nutrient-rich water which drains into the cold waters of the canal is like a “carp magnet.”  It draws the carp to the spillway area for that warm, nutrient-rich water. Think of it as a “carp spa”!! When the canal water temperature gets warmer the carp disperse away from the spillway. However, not only do carp enjoy that warm, nutrient-rich water, bullheads do too!! That’s why you may see people fishing from boats in that area. They have told me they are not fishing for the carp, but for what is under the carp, bullheads!!

I am including pictures of some carp, a sandhill crane and some turtles basking in the sun. Hopefully, you can get out soon to explore and experience all the amazing things at the Montezuma Wetlands Complex trails, towers and the Refuge Wildlife Drive.  Remember, the Refuge Wildlife Drive is currently open to vehicles only. Dogs on a leash are only allowed in and around the Visitors’ Center and on the Seneca Trail.

ENJOY, be respectful and safe.