Hi Hugh,
I think the best place(s) to park for birding McMillan Reservoir (if coming from the west) is the 600 block of Harvard St. NW.� The 600 Blk of Greshem Place is also good.� Sometimes I park on one of these streets and then drive down the street that hugs the western shore of the Reservoir (5th st. that then changes to 4th st. to the south) and park just south of the traffic light (entrance to Howard� U.)�
It's also important to note this body of water is much larger than it looks.� Good waterfowl often shelter in the extreme SE section of the Reservoir - especially when the wind is blowing.� Therefore I always make sure to walk the sidewalk along the western shore from Harvard St. down to Howard U.
Thanks for the details about the Merganser.� The two times I saw it, it was always on the far east side and swimming away and/or sleeping.� I had one look where I thought I saw a white chin patch leading to my Common Merg ID, but I admit it was way out there.� Sounds like you got a closer look, so while I guess there's a chance what I saw was a RB Merg. probably not... Guess I'll just have to re-find the little bugger!
Good Birding,
Jason Berry
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From: Hugh McGuinness <hdmcguinness...>
To: MDBirds <mdbirding...>
Sent: Tuesday, January 8, 2013 3:04 PM
Subject: [MDBirding] McMillen Res
Just took a short break at McMillen Reservoir. The highlight was a female-plumaged RED-BREASTED MERGANSER, which I checked over very carefully since I was expecting to see Common Merganser. Points in favor of this being a Red-breasted included lack of a distinct white chin patch, a darkish patch in the face around the eye, and drab red color to the head. Other birds at the Res included Pied-billed Grebe, 7 Lesser Scaup and 45 Ring-necked Ducks. Since I'm a newbie in DC, can anyone advise me as to the best parking to view the reservoir?
Thanks,
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Hugh McGuinness
Washington, D.C.
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