I took an hour-long walk to the far end of Cash Lake at the National Wildlife Visitor Center this morning (the only open water on the lake is by the fishing pier). On the way, I saw 32 species of birds, a good mix of residents and winter migrants. Highlights: 3 pair of Hooded Mergansers hanging out with the Mallards, Ruddies and Ring-Neckeds and Canada Geese. Also about 25 Am Black Ducks. Saw all of the expected woodpeckers (except the Pileated). Heard the tapping of a YB Sapsucker (Morse Code). Lowlight: Window strike by an adult Yellow-bellied Sapsucker (broken neck)...argh! It was refrigerated so it can go to a taxidermist so it's death will not be in vain....education. Not a single raptor seen!!
   
  Regarding woodpeckers, I saw a Hairy almost alongside a Downy.
  It seems the ratio of H to D sightings for me is ONE Hairy for every 20 or so Downies. Anyone else have thoughts on their relative abundance?
   
  Our feeders have been busy the past few days with the snow/rain events (Juncos, House Finches, Am Goldfinches, Chickadees, Titmice, Mourning Doves, an occasional Song Sparrow and a Red-bellied Woodpecker). Even a Hermit Thrush has been attracted to the bird frenzy.
   
  Lots of Bluebirds active around the VC today.
   
  Wish the weather would stay warm so the ice on the lakes will disappear.
   
  Best of birding...
   
  Steve Noyes
  Volunteer Naturalist
  Patuxent Reseach Refuge
  Laurel MD
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Steve Noyes, Volunteer Naturalist

Patuxent Research Refuge, Laurel MD

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