Hi all,
I just returned from atlasing all morning, and the real highlight was a
flyover subadult MISSISSIPPI KITE, seen only briefly but well as it flew just over
the treetops (at 11:30AM), coming from the NEand heading SW, at the corner of
Havilland Mill Rd. right at the big bend in the road. This is east of New
Hampshire Ave. north of Rt. 108 in Brookeville. The bird must've come through
Howard County because the county line is very close to here. Anyone west of here
should be on the lookout, or ay least be aware of its presence. I don't know if
it will hang around; it appeared to be just flying over. I spent some time
afterwards looking for it, as there were numerous other raptors present,
including 2 Red-tails, one Red-shouldered, both vultures, and an American Kestrel at
the powerlines.

As the bird approached in flight, I thought, hmmm looks like a falcon or a
nighthawk, long swept back wings as it glided over, long tapered tail, but a
short outer primary flight feather, Mississippi Kite!! And just a few days ago it
was a state bird for me!

Rick Sussman
Ashton,MD