I realize that Long-tailed Ducks are not at all rare in Maryland, but it is so astonishing to me to see them all the time and close and fabulous. Today there were 5, two at the end of Sinclair St. (just before the fire station) and 3 out at Black Walnut Point along the fishing pier (one pair and a single guy). The single male was the most exquisitely-plumaged LTDU I have ever seen. Also alongside the pier were 2 adult male Surf Scoters looking darn spiffy. The birds along the pier were all within 30 feet of the rocks.
On a personal note, many thanks to Howard from Howard County and Bob from Lancaster, PA for helping and sharing scopes for my life Barrow's Goldeneye. And a special shout-out to Josh Emm for getting me on my life Tufted Duck under extremely trying cirrcumstances, and after I had spent a really long time standing in cold ankle-deep water without success.
Suzanne Wagner
Wittman
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