[MDOsprey] Eastern Shore Birding 7/23

Joseph J. Halpin (halpinj@juno.com)
Sat, 24 Jul 1999 11:26:51 -0700


Bobby Hughes and I started the day at the Easton STP looking for the
Ruff; after we were there for about 10 minutes we were joined by Chris
from Rockville.  We saw it immediately after positioning ourselves in the
E side of the lower impoundment.  It stood out as a darker bird, was
easily confirmed with binoculars and great views with a scope.  The 3rd
edition of the National Geographic guide was more helpful for this
molting bird than the 2nd ed.  We found nothing of interest on the upper
impoundment.

Farther east in one of the evaporation fields were the flock of
Bobolinks; again great views.

Near the fence line where we saw the Bobolinks there were 2 red fox.

place.  On the access road to the STP, we came across a mother Killdeer
and about 8 young.  The mother put on her distracting display that was
interesting to watch.  The little ones did not know to flee and allowed
Booby a good opportunity to take some photos.  

There is a sign as you enter this area that says you need to call a
particular phone number to get an OK, if no one is around.  Fortunately,
as we climbed the impoundment wall, one of the workers was coming in from
a mowing operation.  He first gave us a stern look, but when we flashed
our binoculars, he gave the OK.
  
Here we found Ruddies, a Tundra Swan, a Snow Goose, Bank Swallows, Least
Terns, Black and Mallard Ducks, Spotted SP, Least SP and several land
species in the SE corner of the impoundments (the corner of the
impoundments that is straight ahead as you climb the impoundment wall). 
Here we found Great Crested FC, Robins, Downy WP, Wood Thrush, sparrow
sp. and possible tanager species (f).  I was a shady, non-buggy place to
watch the birds and snack.

birdy area, although we did spot a Redheaded WP and a Bobwhite a few
miles south of Venice.  On the way back we cut over Henry's Cross Road on
the way to Blackwater NWR and had the opportunity to catch a view of a
yellow-billed Cuckoo and a Meadowlark.  As we approached the Reserve we
spotted a Bald Eagle and Osprey.  We later spotted 3 more Bald Eagles and
several Osprey along Wildlife Drive, but otherwise it was fairly quiet.

Non-bird stuff-On the road to Venice we stopped to buy some corn and
found that it was excellent!

Joe Halpin
Silver Spring, MD
halpinj @juno.com