I saw IT!! FINALLY!! Monday morning I saw the glossy ibis in Seneca Flats as I was surveying before I opened the Visitors’ Center. I’m including a picture and apologize for the poor quality since it was raining, so you won’t think I’m making it up! LOL!
Knox Marsellus and Seneca Flats continue to be our shorebird hot spots! Keep in mind that both units are much easier to see later in the day especially if it is sunny. Pete did an excellent job trying to sort out the species at Knox all the while 2 peregrine falcons and a northern harrier kept up an almost non-stop reshuffling of the shorebirds and teal! On Monday morning from the East Road overlook I found a dark phase snow goose in Knox-Marsellus Marsh hanging out with the Canada geese (pic included). We thoroughly checked today and could not find it. However, there were lots of very noisy sandhill cranes at Knox. I have a video of them that I hope to get up on the website soon. Our pair of trumpeter swans and their cygnet have moved over to Puddler Marsh. I also saw them there yesterday morning.
Early this afternoon from the Seneca Trail tower I saw 5 immature northern harriers foraging over the Main Pool kicking up small flocks of ducks. Harriers are so graceful and amazing to watch. Maybe all or part of this group migrated to Montezuma and will spend the winter here. We can hope.
This week has been breezy and that has helped some to keep the mosquitoes away. We were able to have the windows down along the Wildlife Drive without them streaming into the car!! Such a relief!! The mosquitoes have lessened, but they are still out there. When you come to visit the Refuge bring your binoculars and insect repellent.
ENJOY, be respectful and safe.
Thanks Jackie. I’ll be looking for the Ibis before I open the VC tomorrow. Last Thursday I also saw five Northern Harriers with my scope from the VC deck out over the main pool. Glad to learn that they are still around.