Sunday Morning Bird Walks
Newport News City Park
Join us on the First and Third Sunday of each month at 7:00 AM at Newport News Park.
Meet us in the parking lot behind the Ranger Station!
Thanks to Jane Frigo for providing these reports. For more information, contact Jane (757-873-0721).
2023 Bird Walks Summary
July 7, 2024
July 7, 2024 was a steamy day! Although the temperature remained in the 80’s, the heat index was near 100. Twelve people attended the walk. They were Samantha Denney, Bill Boeh, Dianne Snyder, Sue Tomlin, John Adair, Heidi Young, Beth Watson, Clay Wygant, Louise Ford, Jane Frigo and newcomer Mickey Simone’s. The group was able to identify 50 different species. The Barred Owl was found and gave the group a great photo opportunity. The group got to watch him catch a crayfish and eat it! Another great sighting was of an Acadian Flycatcher. They are often heard but rather difficult to find in the trees. Sadly no gulls or terns were seen and the Eastern Kingbird couldn’t be found. Vireos were singing with White-eyed, Yellow-throated and Red-eyed heard. Bugs must have been out because Northern Rough-winged Swallows, Tree Swallows, Barn Swallows and Purple Martins were flying. The group decided to skip the Arboretum and make it a shorter day. A complete list follows. Remember, an * after a species means it was heard only.
The trip report link is: https: https://ebird.org/tripreport/258542
Canada Goose
Mallard
Mourning Dove
Ruby-throated Hummingbird
Double-crested Cormorant
Great Blue Heron
Great Egret
Turkey Vulture
Osprey
Bald Eagle
Red-shouldered Hawk*
Barred Owl
Belted Kingfisher
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Downy Woodpecker
Northern Flicker*
Eastern Wood-Pewee
Acadian Flycatcher
Great Crested Flycatcher*
White-eyed Vireo*
Yellow-throated Vireo
Red-eyed Vireo*
Blue Jay*
American Crow
Fish Crow
Carolina Chickadee
Tufted Titmouse
Northern Rough-winged Swallow
Purple Martin
Tree Swallow
Barn Swallow
White-breasted Nuthatch*
Blue-gray Gnatcatchers
Carolina Wren
Brown Thrasher
Northern Mockingbird
Eastern Bluebird
American Robin
American Goldfinch
Chipping Sparrow*
Orchard Oriole*
Common Grackle
Prothonotary Warbler
Common Yellowthroat
Northern Parula*
Pine Warbler*
Summer Tanager
Northern Cardia
June 16, 2024
Today, June 16, is Father's Day! A group of 18 decided to spend the morning bird watching. They included Tina White, Marc Nichols, Dianne Snyder, Chris Kruegar, Todd Trousdell, Tom Charlock, Karthik Krishnamurtny, Sue Tomlin, Melissa Freudenberg, Jane Frigo, John and Marilyn Adair, Danny and Piper Smith, Pete and Charm Peterman and William and Rachel McKellar. The group identified 54 species by noon. The weather was pleasant but warm. Eastern Kingbirds were easily seen along with crows and Great Crested Flycatchers. No swallows were spotted and the Bald Eagle was not on his perch but was seen later. Northern Mockingbirds were abundant at the Discovery Center. The most exciting sighting for many was the Barred Owl. William and Rachel found him first and alerted the rest of the group. The owl was most cooperative and sat for a long time. The group finally had to move on. Both male and female Summer Tanagers were seen. Both Red-eyed and Yellow-throated Vireos were seen and the hard-to-spot Acadian Flycatcher. Turtles were everywhere laying eggs and Marc was able to find a worm snake to show the group. Misses for the morning were Osprey and Black Vulture. A complete species list follows.
Canada Goose
Mallard
Mourning Dove
Ruby-throated Hummingbird*
Laughing Gull
Royal Tern
Double-crested Cormorant
Great Blue Heron
Great Egret
Green Heron
Turkey Vulture
Bald Eagle
Red-shouldered Hawk
Red-tailed Hawk
Barred Owl
Belted Kingfisher
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Downy Woodpecker
Hairy Woodpecker*
Pileated Woodpecker
Eastern Wood-Pewee
Acadian Flycatcher
Great Crested Flycatcher
Eastern Kingbird
Yellow-throated Vireo
Red-eyed Vireo
Blue Jay
American Crow
Fish Crow
Carolina Chickadee
Tufted Titmouse
White-breasted Nuthatch
Brown-headed Nuthatch*
Blue-gray Gnatcatchers
Carolina Wren
European Starling
Brown Thrasher
Northern Mockingbird
Eastern Bluebird
American Robin
House Finch
American Goldfinch
Chipping Sparrow
Red-winged Blackbird
Brown-headed Cowbird*
Common Grackle
Prothonotary Warbler
Common Yellowthroat*
Northern Parula
Pine Warbler
Summer Tanager
Northern Cardinal
Blue Grosbeak*
Indigo Bunting
June 2, 2024
June 2, 2024 was a beautiful day for a bird walk. Skies were clear and the temperature remained in the 70's. A large and varied group of people participated in the morning. They included Master Naturalists completing their required walk, first timers who were curious as to what a bird walk was all about, new Merlin users who wanted to learn about the birds they were hearing and old timers. The group numbered 25--Ellen Dudley, Natalie Reid, Sue Tomlin, Heidi Young, Dianne Snyder, Danny Smith, Beth Watson, Donna MeAdams, Alex Lalim, Chris Kruger, Bill Boeh, William and Rachel McKellar, John Adair, Tony and Raj Kapu, Mary Jane Hall, Jayme Drew, Stuart Sweetman, Marc Nichols, Karthik Krishnamurtny, Hannah Montalvo, Beata Whitehead, Tom Charlock and Jane Frigo. It was amazing to see how the group naturally formed smaller groups with experienced people helping with sound identification and bird location. It was evident that the app, Merlin, had spurred an interest in learning more about birds. Since the major push of migration was over, birds remaining were primarily summer residents with 58 species identified. The group hoped for another owl sighting but that wasn't to be. The group did have a very cooperative Prothonotary Warbler at the Swamp Bridge. He was beating a huge grub on the walkway and was totally oblivious of the people. There was a lively discussion about Scarlet and Summer Tanager identification. Light, leaves and position affected photos. Vocalization of only Summer Tanager made the group discount a Scarlet Tanager. Another discussion concerned Raven vs.Crow. A large crow seemed to be soaring which is only typical of Ravens. Not enough observations were made, but more attention will be made in the future. One other note, not a single gull was seen during the morning. A list of birds follows. Remember an * means heard only.
The trip report link is: https://ebird.org/tripreport/243157
Canada Goose
Wood Duck
Mallard
Mourning Dove
Chimney Swift
Ruby-throated Hummingbird
Royal Tern
Double-crested Cormorant
Great Blue Heron
Great Egret
Black Vulture
Turkey Vulture
Osprey
Bald Eagle
Red-tailed Hawk
Belted Kingfisher
Red-bellied Woodpecker*
Downy Woodpecker
Pileated Woodpecker
Eastern Wood-Pewee
Acadian Flycatcher
Eastern Phoebe
Great Crested Flycatcher
Eastern Kingbird
White-eyed Vireo*
Yellow-throated Vireo
Red-eyed Vireo
Blue Jay
American Crow
Fish Crow
Carolina Chickadee
Tufted Titmouse
Tree Swallow
Barn Swallow
White-breasted Nuthatch*
Brown-headed Nuthatch
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher
Carolina Wren
Brown Thrasher
Northern Mockingbird
Eastern Bluebird
American Robin
House Finch
American Goldfinch
Chipping Sparrow
Song Sparrow
Red-winged Blackbird
Brown-headed Cowbird*
Common Grackle
Prothonotary Warbler
Common Yellowthroat
Northern Parula*
Pine Warbler*
Yellow-throated Warbler*
Summer Tanager
Northern Cardinal
Blue Grosbeak
Indigo Bunting
May 19, 2024
The past few days had been rainy but Sunday, May 19 was dry. Clouds slowly cleared somewhat. The temperature stayed in the 60’s. Newcomers Andrew McGavin and Lauren Stroyeck joined the group which included Chris Kruger, Mary Jane Hall, Donna Mc Adams, Stuart Sweetman, Heidi Young, Marc Nichols, Tina White, Beate Whitehead, Tom Charlock, Sue Tomlin, Jane Frigo, William and Rachel McKellar, and Marilyn and John Adair. The group identified 74 species by noon. The large number of experienced bird watchers certainly helped. Most species were seen, but half of the warblers were only heard. Swainson’s and Gray-cheeked Thrushes were seen with pretty confident identification of field marks. A confident ID of the Louisiana or Northern Waterthrush could not be made so the decision was to put just “species”. Mary Jane finally got to see the Barred Owl for the first time at the park! Tree Swallows gave quite a show and looked more blue that green in the light. Pewees and Great Crested Flycatchers were abundant. As the walk was ending, Heidi and Jane saw a Red-shouldered Hawk fly over the Japanese Tea House with prey in his mouth! All in all it was a great day spent outside. A complete species list follows.
The trip report link is: https://ebird.org/tripreport/224788
Canada Goose
Wood Duck
Mallard
Mourning Dove
Yellow-billed Cuckoo*
Chimney Swift
Ruby-throated Hummingbird
Spotted Sandpiper
Laughing Gull
Royal Tern
Double-crested Cormorant
Great Blue Heron
Great Egret
Green Heron
Black Vulture
Turkey Vulture
Osprey
Cooper’s Hawk
Bald Eagle
Red-shouldered Hawk
Barred Owl
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Downy Woodpecker
Pileated Woodpecker
Northern Flicker
Eastern Wood-Pewee
Acadian Flycatcher*
Eastern Phoebe
Great Crested Flycatcher
Eastern Kingbird
White-eyed Vireo
Yellow-throated Vireo
Red-eyed Vireo*
Blue Jay
American Crow
Fish Crow
Carolina Chickadee
Tufted Titmouse
Northern Rough-winged Swallow
Purple Martin
Tree Swallow
Barn Swallow
White-breasted Nuthatch
Brown-headed Nuthatch
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher
House Wren
Carolina Wren
Gray Catbird
Brown Thrasher
Northern Mockingbird
Eastern Bluebird
Gray-cheeked Thrush
Swainson’s Thrush
House Finch
American Goldfinch
Chipping Sparrow
Orchard Oriole
Red-winged Blackbird
Brown-headed Cowbird
Common Grackle
Waterthrush species
Prothonotary Warbler
Common Yellowthroat
American Redstart*
Northern Parula*
Yellow Warbler
Blackpoll Warbler
Black-throated Blue Warbler*
Pine Warbler*
Yellow-throated Warbler
Summer Tanager
Northern Cardinal
Blue Grosbeak
Indigo Bunting
May 5, 2024
Migration was in full swing on May 5, 2024. Eighteen people met at the park at 7 o’clock ready to see and hear what had arrived and possibly to learn something about bird watching. They included newcomers Beth Watson, Jessica Hairston, Philip Sheridan and Raj Kapu. Returning watchers included Cindy Schulz, Dianne Snyder, Stuart Sweetman, Phyllis Roth, Tina White, Pete Peterman, Sarah Ware, Tom Charlock, Sue Tomlin, Jane Frigo, John and Marilyn Adair and Rachel and William McKellar. Low hanging clouds made it difficult to make out colors but there was enough light to show the many birds moving around in the canopy. Sound identification proved to be very important. With the help of Merlin and the experienced birders the group had a hint as to what to look for. Over the course of the morning 74 species were identified. Many identifications were made strictly by sound but many birds did provide opportunities for clear visual identification. An Osprey was seen flying with a fish in his talons and then pursued by a Bald Eagle who stole his catch. A pair of Red-tailed Hawks were soaring on the thermals. Both Summer and Scarlet Tanagers were spotted. An Eastern Kingbird and Ruby-throated Hummingbird were especially cooperative for the photographers. The group did decide to walk the entire White Oak Trail for an opportunity to get more birds. 11 warblers were identified. Cedar Waxwings were in large numbers as were flycatchers and vireos. Just before reaching the Spawning Pond the Barred Owl was heard hooting but wasn’t found. Marc Nichols entertained the group by showing a HUGE black snake at the Discovery Center. A complete species list follows. *indicates just heard
The trip report link is: https://ebird.org/tripreport/224787
Canada Goose
Wood Duck
Mallard
Mourning Dove
Yellow billed Cuckoo*
Chimney Swift
Ruby-throated Hummingbird
Killdeer*
Laughing Gull
Double-crested Cormorant
Great Blue Heron
Great Egret
Glossy Ibis
Turkey Vulture
Osprey
Bald Eagle
Red-tailed Hawk
Barred Owl*
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Downy Woodpecker
Hairy Woodpecker
Pileated Woodpecker*
Northern Flicker*
Eastern Wood-Pewee
Eastern Phoebe*
Great Crested Flycatcher
Eastern Kingbird
White-eyed Vireo
Yellow-throated Vireo*
Red-eyed Vireo
Blue Jay
American Crow
Fish Crow
Carolina Chickadee
Tufted Titmouse
Northern Rough-winged Swallow
Purple Martin
Tree Swallow
Barn Swallow
White-breasted Nuthatch
Brown-headed Nuthatch*
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher
House Wren*
Carolina Wren
Gray Catbird
Brown Thrasher
Northern Mockingbird
Eastern Bluebird
American Robin
Cedar Waxwing
American Goldfinch
Chipping Sparrow*
Swamp Sparrow
Orchard Oriole
Red-winged Blackbird
Brown-headed Cowbird
Common Grackle
Ovenbird
Northern Waterthrush
Black-and-white Warbler
Prothonotary Warbler
Common Yellowthroat
American Redstart
Northern Parula
Blackpoll Warbler
Back-throated Blue Warbler
Pine Warbler
Yellow-rumped Warbler
Yellow-throated Warbler
Summer Tanager
Scarlet Tanager
Northern Cardinal
Blue Grosbeak
Indigo Bunting
April 21, 2024
April showers were the name of the game on April 21, 2024. They were to hold off until 9 or 10 AM but a light drizzle began almost immediately. In addition the temperature remained in the upper 40’s to low 50’s! In spite of that 13 participants braved the elements and identified 48 species before quitting around 9 or 10 AM and covering only the Ranger Station and the Discovery Center. They were Tina White, Zachary and Abby Rausch, William and Rachel McKellar, Chris Blackman, Twyla Blume, Bill Boeh, Sue Tomlin, Chris Krueger, Marc Nichols, John Adair and Jane Frigo. Marc Nichols did continue on to the Swamp bridge and was able to add 10 more species to the total bringing the number for the morning to 58. Poor lighting and wet opticals made hearing identification all the more important. The male Wood Duck was spotted among the grasses he and his mate were seen in the last walk. Hopefully that means they may have a nest nearby. Ducks appeared to be gone with only a lone Pied-billed Grebe seen with the Mallards, Cormorants and geese. White-throated Sparrows and Yellow-rumpled Warblers were still around. Great-crested Flycatchers, Ovenbird and Yellow-throated Warblers had arrived for the summer. One other note, not a single Great Blue Heron was seen. The most interesting sight was all the swallows! They were zipping past the group, perching on wires just overhead and lining up on the pipeline! A complete species list follows.
The trip report link is: https://ebird.org/tripreport/217687
Canada Goose
Wood Duck
Mallard
Pied-billed Grebe
Mourning Dove
Double-crested Cormorant
Great Egret
Black Vulture
Turkey Vulture
Osprey
Bald Eagle
Red-bellied Woodpecker*
Pileated Woodpecker*
Northern Flicker*
Great Crested Flycatcher*
Blue Jay*
American Crow
Fish Crow
Carolina Chickadee
Tufted Titmouse
Northern Rough-winged Swallow
Tree Swallow
Barn Swallow
Ruby-crowned Kinglet
White-breasted Nuthatch*
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher
House Wren*
Carolina Wren
Brown Thrasher
Northern Mockingbird
Eastern Bluebird
American Robin*
Cedar Waxwing
House Finch*
American Goldfinch*
Chipping Sparrow*
Field Sparrow
White-throated Sparrow
Eastern Towhee
Red-winged Blackbird
Brown-headed Cowbird
Common Grackle
Ovenbird*
Pine Warbler*
Yellow-rumpled Warbler
Yellow-throated Warbler
Summer Tanager*
Northern Cardinal
Marc Nichols list to Swamp Bridge
Royal Tern
Barred Owl
Yellow-throated Vireo*
Brown-headed Nuthatch*
Winter Wren
Swamp Sparrow
Prothonotary Warbler*
Common Yellowthroat
Scarlet Tanager*
Eastern Phoebe*
April 7, 2024
April 7, 2024 was a beautiful spring day. Skies were clear, winds were light and the temperature a refreshing 48 degrees. Several regular attendants were missing because of the rare total eclipse to take place April 8, 2024. The cities or states they visited included Ohio, Buffalo, Austin, Indianapolis and San Antonio. Those in Virginia will be able to see a partial eclipse, weather permitting. Stuart Sweetman led the Sunday group which included Cindy Schulz, Dianne Snyder, Lauren Forero, Alexander Laila, Heidi Young, Sue Tomlin, Melissa Freudenberg, Chris and Paula Krueger and Ellis and Wendy Maxey. The group identified 62 species. Most ducks had left with only Gadwall remaining of the migrants. All 7 woodpeckers were identified. Ruby-crowned Kinglets were still seen and Blue-gray Gnatcatchers had made their arrival for the summer. Interestingly, Swamp Sparrows were heard doing their mating song. Also, FOS (first of season) Yellow-throated Warblers were identified as well as Palm and Common-yellowthroats. Dark-eyed Junco, White-throated Sparrow and Yellow-rumpled Warblers were still around but should be leaving soon. A complete list follows.
The trip report link is: https://ebird.org/tripreport/217686
Canada Goose
Wood Duck
Gadwall
Mallard
Pied-billed Grebe
Mourning Dove
Laughing Gull
Ring-billed Gull
Royal Tern
Double-crested Cormorant
Great Blue Heron
Great Egret
Black Vulture
Turkey Vulture
Osprey
Cooper’s Hawk
Bald Eagle
Belted Kingfisher
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker
Red-headed Woodpecker*
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Downy Woodpecker
Hairy Woodpecker*
Pleated Woodpecker
Northern Flicker
Eastern Phoebe
Blue Jay
American Crow
Fish Crow
Carolina Chickadee
Tufted Titmouse
Purple Martin
Tree Swallow
Ruby-crowned Kinglet
White-breasted Nuthatch*
Brown-headed Nuthatch*
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher
Carolina Wren
European Starling
Brown Thrasher
Northern Mockingbird
Eastern Bluebird
Hermit Thrush
American Robin
Cedar Waxwing
American Goldfinch
Chipping Sparrow
Field Sparrow
Dark-eyed Junco
White-throated Sparrow
Song Sparrow
Swamp Sparrow
Eastern Towhee
Red-winged Blackbird
Brown-headed Cowbird
Common Grackle
Common Yellowthroat*
Palm Warbler
Pine Warbler
Yellow-rumpled Warbler
Yellow-throated Warbler
Northern Cardinal
March 17, 2024
It was St. Patrick’s Day, March 17, 2024, and spring was in the air! Weather conditions were great for looking for birds. Skies were clear and the temperature in the 60’s. A VERY large group turned out for the walk and were able to identify 62 species by noon. Those participating were Pete Peterman, Cindy Schulz, Dave Youker, Marc Nichols, Melissa Freudenberg, Mary Jane Hall, Heidi Young, Eva Greene, Stuart Sweetman, Gary Wright, June Hartzler, Chris Krueger, Bill Boeh, Dianne Snyder, Todd Trousdell, Kate Shaller, Donna McAdams, Cathy Bond, Sarah Ware, Jayme Musen, Hannah Montalvo, Tom Charlock, Marilyn and John Adair, Beata Whitehead and grandson Gavin, Jane Frigo and first timers Lisa Pyle and Tina White. Ducks were beginning to move out but a few Ring-necked, Hoodies and a Ruddy Duck were found. A beautiful pair of Wood Ducks were seen. Laughing Gull in breeding plumage were spotted. Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers and both Kinglet species were still around. Blue-gray Gnatcatchers had been reported but none could be located during the morning. The group did locate an active White-breasted Nuthatch cavity. A Hermit Thrush singing his spring song was heard. It provided a wonderful teaching moment by letting the group listen to that seldom heard song and compare it to that of the summer breeding Wood Thrush. Other interesting observations included a coiled Cottonmouth and slithering Black Rat Snake. A complete species list follows.
The trip report link is: https://ebird.org/tripreport/207922
Canada Goose
Wood Duck
Mallard
Ring-necked Duck
Hooded Merganser
Ruddy Duck
Rock Pigeon
Mourning Dove
Virginia Rail*
Laughing Gull
Ring-billed Gull
Royal Tern
Double-crested Cormorant
Great Blue Heron
Great Egret
Black Vulture
Turkey Vulture
Osprey
Bald Eagle
Belted Kingfisher
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Downy Woodpecker
Hairy Woodpecker
Pleated Woodpecker
Northern Flicker
Eastern Phoebe
Blue Jay
American Crow
Fish Crow
Carolina Chickadee
Tufted Titmouse
Northern-Rough-winged Swallow
Tree Swallow
Ruby-crowned Kinglet
Golden-crowned Kinglet
White-breasted Nuthatch
Brown-headed Nuthatch
Brown Creeper
Winter Wren
Carolina Wren
Gray Catbird
Brown Thrasher
Northern Mockingbird
Eastern Bluebird
Hermit Thrush
American Robin
Cedar Waxwing
House Finch
American Goldfinch
Chipping Sparrow
Field Sparrow
Dark-eyed Junco
White-throated Sparrow
Song Sparrow*
Swamp Sparrow
Eastern Towhee
Red-winged Blackbird
Brown-headed Cowbird*
Pine Warbler*
Yellow-rumpled Warbler
Northern Cardinal
March 2, 2024
Because of the scheduled ALL CITY MARATHON, the first walk in March, 2024 was held on Saturday, March 2, instead of Sunday, March 3. Rain blanketed the area but 4 people still showed up to bird from the shelters and hope for a break in the weather. Marc Nichols, Tom Charlock, Cindy Schulz and Jane Frigo birded until 10 AM before calling it a day. In the hour and a half spent in the Ranger parking lot they were able to identify 31 species. The last hour and a half was spent at the Discovery Center and Spawning Pond where an additional 12 species were added. Gadwall were again the dominate waterfowl species seen. Tree Swallows skimmed over the water. The resident Bald Eagle could be seen occupying his favorite tree. Double-crested Cormorants lined the pipe. Kinglets were easy to see and the sound of Red-winged Blackbirds filled the air. Inspite of the weather it was a good morning. By the next walk some Spring migrants and early summer residents should be arriving. A complete species list follows.
The trip report link is: https://ebird.org/tripreport/207921
Canada Goose
Gadwall
Mallard
American Black Duck
Ring-necked Duck
Hooded Merganser
Mourning Dove
Ring-billed Gull
Double-crested Cormorant
Great Blue Heron
Great Egret
Bald Eagle
Red-tailed Hawk
Belted Kingfisher
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker
Red-bellied Woodpecker*
Downy Woodpecker*
Pileated Woodpecker
Northern Flicker
Blue Jay
American Crow
Fish Crow*
Carolina a Chickadee
Tufted Titmouse
Tree Swallow
Ruby-crowned Kinglet
Golden-crowned Kinglet
White-breasted Nuthatch
Brown-headed Nuthatch
Brown Creeper
Carolina Wren
Brown Thrasher
Northern Mockingbird
Eastern Bluebird
American Robin
American Goldfinch
White-throated Sparrow
Song Sparrow
Swamp Sparrow
Red-winged Blackbird
Pine Warbler
Yellow-rumped Warbler
Northern Cardinal
February 18, 2024
The day was cold (28 degrees) but clear and calm. Not bad for birding if one is dressed for the weather and happens to have some hand warmers! Those participating were Samantha Denney, Marc Nichols, Heidi Young, Stuart Sweetman, Todd Trousdell, John Adair, Donna McAdams, Sarah Ware, Tom Charlock, Jane Frigo and first timer Eva Greene. Waterfowl were not as diverse as last walk but still included Canada Goose, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, Mallard, American Black Duck, Ring-necked Duck, Bufflehead, Hooded Merganser and Pied-billed Grebe. Tree Swallows skimmed the water surface as the group searched for an American Wigeon with not luck. Kinglets were busy and American Robins were abundant. The Virginia Rail was heard again at the Swamp Bridge, but as expected, refused to show himself. Bald Eagles, Red-tailed Hawks and Vultures were beautiful soaring in the clear skies. Another special sighting was that of a pair of Rusty Blackbirds. A complete species list follows. *a special note…the first walk for March is canceled because of the All City Marathon to be held on that date. Anyone interested in a bird walk that weekend can meet at the Ranger Station at 7 AM on SATURDAY, March 2, 2024.
The trip report link is: https://ebird.org/tripreport/197221
Canada Goose
Northern Shoveler
Gadwall
Mallard
American Black Duck
Ring-necked Duck
Bufflehead
Hooded Merganser
Pied-billed Grebe
Virginia Rail*
Ring-billed Gull
Double-crested Cormorant
Great Blue Heron
Great Egret
Black Vulture
Turkey Vulture
Bald Eagle
Red-tailed Hawk
Belted Kingfisher
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Downy Woodpecker
Pileated Woodpecker
Blue Jay
American Crow
Fish Crow
Carolina Chickadee
Tufted Titmouse
Ruby-crowned Kinglet
Golden-crowned Kinglet
Tree Swallows
White-breasted Nuthatch
Brown-headed Nuthatch*
Brown Creeper
Winter Wren
Carolina Wren
Brown Thrasher
Northern Mockingbird
Eastern Bluebird
Hermit Thrush
American Robin
American Goldfinch
Dark-eyed Junco
White-throated Sparrow
Song Sparrow
Swamp Sparrow
Eastern Towhee
Red-winged Blackbird
Rusty Blackbird
Common Grackle
Yellow-rumpled Warbler
Northern Cardinal
February 4, 2024
Although February 4th was cold, 29 degrees, it was not nearly as miserable as the last walk. Temperatures warmed over the morning to the 50’s and it was beautiful! Thirteen people came to enjoy the morning. They were Terry and Cathy Bond, Bill Boeh, Cindy Schulz, Stuart Sweetman, Pete Peterman, Chris Krueger, Sandy Graham, Mary Jane Hall, Todd Trousdell, Susan Maples, Marc Nichols and Jane Frigo. The group identified 55 species. Waterfowl were well represented with 12 species seen including multiple Northern Shovelers, American Wigeon, Ring-necked Ducks and Hooded Mergansers. Small numbers of Pied-billed Grebe, Ruddy Duck and Bufflehead were spotted. Two Virginia Rails were heard at the Swamp Bridge. Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers seemed to be everywhere. Some great looks were enjoyed of Red-tailed Hawks and a Cooper’s Hawk. The most abundant species had to be American Robins. Hard to believe several walks ago not a single robin could be found! Sadly , the Barred Owl was not seen. A special note—because of the ALL CITY MARATHON, there will not be a bird walk on the first Sunday of March. Instead, anyone interested can come on Saturday, March 2. A complete species list follows.
The trip report link is: https://ebird.org/tripreport/197220
Canada Goose
Wood Duck*
Northern Shoveler
Gadwall
American Wigeon
Mallard
American Black Duck
Ring-necked Duck
Bufflehead
Hooded Merganser
Ruddy Duck
Pied-billed Grebe
Virginia Rail*
Ring-billed Gull
Double-crested Cormorant
Great Blue Heron
Great Egret
Turkey Vulture
Cooper’s Hawk
Bald Eagle
Red-tailed Hawk
Belted Kingfisher
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Downy Woodpecker
Hairy Woodpecker*
Pileated Woodpecker*
Northern Flicker
Blue Jay
American Crow
Fish Crow
Carolina Chickadee
Tufted Titmouse
Ruby-crowned Kinglet
Golden-crowned Kinglet
White-breasted Nuthatch
Brown-headed Nuthatch*
Winter Wren
Carolina Wren
Brown Thrasher
Northern Mockingbird
Eastern Bluebird
Hermit Thrush
American Robin
American Goldfinch
Dark-eyed Junco
White-throated Sparrow
Song Sparrow
Swamp Sparrow
Eastern Towhee*
Red-winged Blackbird
Common Grackle
Pine Warbler*
Yellow-rumpled Warbler
Northern Cardinal
January 21, 2024
The day was COLD, COLD, COLD!!! The coldest day of the season brought a morning temperature of 19 degrees and only warmed up to just over freezing. 14 crazy people braved the elements to see what had moved in. Those participating were Marc Nichols, Chris Krueger, Donna McAdams, Mary Jane Hall, Stuart Sweetman, Jayme Musen, Melissa Freudenberg, Sue Tomlin, Cindy Schulz, Jane Frigo, Mike and Jen Hendrix and Marilyn and John Adair. Pine Siskins started the morning out and was followed by a number of ducks on the reservoir. An American Black Duck was seen in addition to Hooded Mergansers, Ring-necked Ducks, Mallards, Bufflehead and even a Redhead Duck! The shore line was frozen along with the small inlet by the first bridge. Canada Geese made a comical sight when they tried to land and encountered a frozen surface, skidding to a stop with a puzzled look. A Belted Kingfisher was spotted at the Spawning Pond tenderizing a fish. He repeatedly beat the fish on a branch for several minutes. Was he defrosting it or tenderizing it? One thing was for sure, he wasn’t giving up! The group persisted through the morning with only a few people giving in to the cold and calling it quits. 48 species were identified and everyone looked forward to getting home and getting warmed up. A complete species list follows.
The link to the Trip Report is: https://ebird.org/tripreport/173206
Canada Goose
Gadwall
American Wigeon
Mallard
American Black Duck
Redhead
Ring-necked Duck
Bufflehead
Hooded Merganser
Mourning Dove
Ring-billed Gull
Double-crested Cormorant
Great Blue Heron
Black Vulture
Turkey Vulture
Bald Eagle
Red-tailed Hawk
Belted Kingfisher
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Downy Woodpecker
Pileated Woodpecker
Northern Flicker
Blue Jay
American Crow
Fish Crow
Carolina Chickadee
Tufted Titmouse
Ruby-crowned Kinglet
White-breasted Nuthatch
Carolina Wren
Brown Thrasher
Northern Mockingbird
Eastern Bluebird
Hermit Thrush
American Robin
Pine Siskin
American Goldfinch*
Field Sparrow
Dark-eyed Junco
White-throated Sparrow
Song Sparrow
Swamp Sparrow
Eastern Towhee
Red-winged Blackbird
Brown-headed Cowbird
Yellow-rumpled Warbler
Northern Cardinal
January 7, 2024
The New Year has arrived! The first bird walk of 2024 began with overcast skies and moderate temperatures. At 7 AM it was still dark with sunrise not scheduled until 7:20 AM. Birders trickled in and by sunrise a good group had assembled. By 8 AM the number reached 17! They included Chris Krueger, Donna McAdams, Debra Swinford, Dianne Snyder, Shawn Dash, Pete Peterman, Stuart Sweetman, Marc Nichols, Cindy Schulz, Sarah Ware, Lauren Forero, Tom Charlock, Hannah Montalvo, Jane Frigo, John and Marilyn Adair and newcomer Jayme Musen. The group identified 61 species by afternoon when skies had cleared. The morning began with a flock of Pine Siskins and Cedar Waxwings high in the trees and very difficult to see but easier to hear. 7 duck species were seen and 2 additional species heard The best ducks seen were lone American Wigeon, Northern Shoveler and Lesser Scaup. The Virginia Rail was heard again at the Swamp Bridge and made a brief run through the reeds. Always exciting to see, the Barred Owl was located! A complete species list follows.
The trip report is available through the following link: https://ebird.org/tripreport/173205
Canada Goose
Wood Duck*
Northern Shoveler
Gadwall
American Wigeon
Mallard
American Black Duck*
Ring-necked duck
Lesser Scaup
Hooded Merganser
Pied-billed Grebe
Mourning Dove
Virginia Rail
Ringed-billed Gull
Double-crested Cormorant
Great Blue Heron
Great Egret
Black Vulture
Turkey Vulture
Bald Eagle
Red-tailed Hawk
Coopers hawk
Barred Owl
Belted Kingfisher
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Downy Woodpecker
Hairy Woodpecker*
Pileated Woodpecker
Northern Flicker
Eastern Phoebe
Blue Jay
American Crow
Fish Crow
Carolina Chickadee
Tufted Titmouse
Ruby-crowned Kinglet
Golden-crowned Kinglet
White-breasted Nuthatch
Brown-headed Nuthatch
Brown Creeper
Winter Wren
Carolina Wren
Brown Thrasher
Northern Mockingbird
Eastern Bluebird
Hermit Thrush
American Robin
Cedar Waxwings
Pine Siskin
American Goldfinch
Chipping Sparrow
Dark-eyed Junco
White-throated Sparrow
Song Sparrow
Swamp Sparrow
Eastern Towhee*
Red-winged Blackbird
Common Yellowthroat
Yellow-rumped Warbler
Northern Cardinal
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© 2023 by Hampton Roads Bird Club
Contact: Dave Youker | 757.344.9385 | youkerd@aol.com