RFI Red-Headed WP in DC area

GAIL@UMDD.UMD.EDU
Mon, 5 Apr 99 09:22:50 EDT


Hi all --

We have a friend visiting us this weekend who would like to see (among other
species) Red-headed Woodpecker. Does anyone have a site that they know is
currently active? We checked Huntley Meadows this past weekend and it seems
the birds are not there (in the flooded woods beyond the observation tower).
But if we just missed them or if anyone can update us on, for example,
activity at Black Hills or C&O Canal, would be very appreciative.

At Huntley we did see two American Bitterns flying off northwards at dusk,
from the "back ends" observation platform, also heard/saw four KIng Rails and
one Woodcock flying over. The woodcock field (behind the display poster) had
about 10 people in it at dusk, and no Woodcocks put in an appearance. If you
do go there to see them, wear dark clothing, stay back in the trees and stay
off the bare "lekking" areas -- and be quiet -- none of which was the case
last Saturday, unfortunately.

Thanks in advance for help,
Gail Mackiernan
Silver Spring, MD