Kelp Gull, 2/20/99, St. Mary's County, Maryland
Jane Kostenko (jkostenko@somd.lib.md.us)
Sat, 20 Feb 1999 17:06:45 -0500
The kelp gull was seen from dawn until we left at 4:30 p.m. There were
only brief (15 minutes) times twice when it went out of sight on the water
at the Sandgates, before returning to its pilings. Oysters on the half shell
and shrimp were regularly brought out by the staff at the Sea Breeze
crabhouse, and the bird was heard to call around ?9-ish a.m.?, sounding, I'm
told, like a sea lion. (I was there the whole day, but missed the call.
Duh.)
We had 105 birders sign the log book for today, effectively doubling the
number having seen it since Monday, 2/15. We also had a dozen non-birders
who enjoyed the show (though whether they were having more fun watching the
bird or the birders I won't say).
Tyler and I have its flight call on tape from last night, but, to my
knowwledge, no one has the long call (the sea lion bark) on tape. I hope I'm
wrong!
Jane Kostenko
jkostenko@somd.lib.md.us
California, Maryland
301-862-4623 (home)
Yesterday is history; tomorrow is a mystery.
Today is a gift. That's why they call it the PRESENT.