Jason does a great job capturing the importance of this area for DC birds.
He's also worked very hard to find a bike path solution that achieves the
biking goals and protects the birds. And there's a great solution on the
table: build it along the eastern perimeter of the park rather than right
through the most sensitive habitat. But it's going to take some pressure
to get the DC government to accept it. Attending this event is a great way
to help send the message and build support. I wish I could attend, but
will be out of town on business. The last time I was out of town, DC's 2nd
Brown Pelican showed up. And last year when I was out of town, folks found
a White Ibis in Kenilworth Park (less then 6 records for DC, I believe).
I'd love to read that those participating in this event found a similarly
great bird - like breeding Grasshopper Sparrow. This species used to nest
in Kenilworth Park many years ago. And it could do so again, but not if
they cut a huge swath right through the best areas.
Please consider taking some time on Sunday to attend this field trip.
Good birding,
Paul Pisano
Arlington, VA
On Thursday, July 12, 2012, Jason Berry wrote:
> Hi Everyone,
>
> Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens are the jewels of DC birding.
> According to eBird over 212 species of birds have been recorded using the
> parks' wetlands, forests, and grasslands. To put this in perspective, well
> birded Rock creek Park has only recorded 177. But the crown jewel of DC
> birding is under threat from a poorly conceived bike path that is routed to
> go through the most ecologically sensitive sections of the twin parks. This
> is one of the best places in DC for shorebirds, scrub birds and raptors.
> There are even plans for significant habitat restoration, but a poorly
> routed the bike trail could nullify them.
>
> Join us this Sunday, July 15th at 7:30 am to see first hand what is at
> threat and learn what the birding and local conservation community is doing
> about it. We'll meet at the entrance to the Aquatic Gardens bird the area
> as well as the adjacent Kenilworth Park grasslands.
>
> See you Sunday!
>
> Jason Berry
> Washington, DC
>
>
>
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