I have never been much of a lister (I keep a life list, but couldn't tell 
you exactly how many species are on it), but after seeing the Snow 
Goose and female Common Goldeneye at Lake Artemesia yesterday 
afternoon, I took these unexpected visitors as a sign that I should 
probably start a county list.  As if to confirm that this was the right 
decision:   while I was walking on the Cash Lake trail at the National 
Wildlife Visitor Center this morning, a Red-breasted Nuthatch landed 
in a small tree alongside the trail - not more than 15 feet in front of 
me.  A few steps further on, I found a Hermit Thrush perched stock-
still on a low branch, again right beside the trail.

Also of interest:  An adult Bald Eagle flew over the lake and landed in 
a tree on the far side.  Also present:  60+ Ring-necked Ducks, a half 
dozen Ruddies and Mallards, a GBH, and the usual Canadas.

Maybe on Sunday I'll start a year list for 2006.  It's additive, isn't it...?

Happy New Year, everyone.

Elaine Hendricks
Greenbelt, MD  (PG County)
   

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