[MDOsprey] pelican continues (& nighthawks)
SSUTER (ssuter@aaas.org)
Fri, 27 Aug 1999 08:38:38 -0400
When I first checked the snag last evening (Thurs, 26 Aug) at 1840
EDT, the white pelican was not in sight. But it arrived from upriver
within ten minutes. It remained through 15 - 20 minutes of heavier
rain and was still on the stump when I continued south.
After the rain let up c 1915, the skies over the mouth of Hunting
Creek, the adjacent apt comlexes, and along the Potomac towards the
Belle Haven Picnic Grounds had a couple dozen Common Nighthawks, at
least as many Chimney Swifts, and a scattering of swallows (Barn, a
few Tree, and at least a couple of Bank). They seemed to be feeding
rather than passing through, but I did not stay around and watch.
When I passed the foot of the Wilson Bridge this morning (Friday, 27
Aug; c 0720), Ray Kiddy was watching the White Pelican through his
scope. It was perched on the snag at the moment, but he had seen it
further upriver earlier.
Cheers and good birds,
Sherman Suter
Alexandria, VA 22307
ssuter@aaas.org