I was at Patterson Park between 7:05 and 9:40 this morning. Migration is definitely picking up! I had a single LEAST FLYCATCHER. Very small with big head, bold eye-ring and short wings. It was flitting very low to the ground between a patch and marsh hibiscus on the boardwalk and the littler islands on the north edge of the park. In the willows also along the boardwalk several warblers were flitting. Most were OVENBIRDS, but there was one MAGNOLIA WARBLER. I saw a photographer on the way out who said he saw a CHESTNUT-SIDED in addition to the others.
There have also been some raptors hanging around for a few days now. There is an OSPREY that has been fishing there in the mornings and early evenings. A RED-TAILED HAWK has also been at that southern end of the Park. I have seen it mostly around the grove of cypress trees. A COOPER'S HAWK was perched low (under ten ft) on the fallen branches of one of the huge trees lining Linwood Ave. where is intersects the park. It allowed exceptionally close observation; I approached to within two yards or so and it didn't seem bothered, as it only moved once or twice. I got some pretty good pictures and then left it be. All the raptors were juveniles.
Additionally, groups of over fifteen blackbirds, kingbirds and robins have been flying over the past few days.
Good Birding!
Mike H.
Baltimore City
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