Todd & all--Speaking of copperheads, my last encounter with one was in early September. It was at Riverbend Park, while walking along the Potomac, south of the visitors' center. As I neared the Wendt St. picnic area (midway to Great Falls NP), I almost stepped one, maybe 30 inches long, on the river side of the path. I studied it closely ( through my binoculars, of course). When I returned a while later, I was relieved to see only its tracks across the path. I understand, though, they are rather docile, unless you do actually pester them, i.e, like stepping on them. My only other encounter was similar. This time at Great Falls Park, maybe 20 years ago, when Swainson's Warbler first made its appearance there. Encouraged by late migrant visitors to my backyard the past few days--Bl. Hd. Vireo, Swainson's Thrush and Scarlet Tanager, I birded the Riverbend Park meadow early this am. to find it very quiet, though at least 4 sparrow species are still there. Ralph J. Wall Great Falls, Va.