I was at the Oxbow Lake in Laurel from about 06:15 to 08:30.  I did not
see or hear the Purple Gallinule.  I managed to get down to the water's
edge, with a pretty commanding view of most of the lake.  But no joy.  I did,
however, see 5 Great Egrets, quite a few Great Blue Herons, a BUNCH of Green
Herons, some Wood Ducks, 2-3 Belted Kingfishers, 1 Red-Shouldered Hawk, and
2-3 Least Bitterns.  Thanks to Mary Gustafson for spotting the first one
(a female), and putting the scope on it.  I had fleeting glimpses of at least
one male.  I got photos of the female.  Fuzzy, but adequate.

Kurt Schwarz
HowCo