FYI: masks are still required in the Visitors’ Center due to the high COVID rate in Seneca County.
Most of our survey yesterday was overshadowed by strong winds, therefore, we only surveyed the units around the Wildlife Drive. However, that didn’t seem to greatly affect the shorebirds in the Visitors’ Center Wetland. There were several hundred. They were flighty and extremely difficult to count! They often moved in large groups resembling blackbird murmurations. It was REALLY COOL when the dunlin flew by with their black bellies towards us! There were lots of dunlins, lesser yellowlegs, least sandpipers, and a few dowitchers. We found two Wilson’s phalaropes there too. The other units were very quiet. We did see one glossy ibis in a pool east of the eagle sculpture. It was very close to the vegetation near the Wildlife Drive and I couldn’t get a good picture.
Since yesterday seemed a bust for birds and pictures, I can fill in with things I saw on Monday. I will include a picture of the pickerel weed in Seneca Flats. It is now above the top of the water and is looking lush as it continues to grow. Check it out!! I will also include a picture of the pickerel weed in bloom, from last August 30, to refresh your memories of this beautiful plant! On Monday there were 5 redheads and 1 ring-necked duck in Benning Marsh (picture of a couple of them). Yesterday there was only 1 pied-billed grebe in Benning!
AT LAST, conditions were favorable for me to see 1 eaglet in the Maple Island nest!! It was large and dark brown. YAY!! Previously, I had seen an adult on the edge of the nest tending to young but no kids.
It looks like we have some rain coming tomorrow, but I hope you can get out soon to explore the Montezuma Wetlands Complex trails, towers and Wildlife Drive. I believe that without strong winds there will be much more to view.
ENJOY, be respectful and safe.
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