Greeings,

Before diving into a huge paper I have to write for my English Class, I 
took an hour or so to walk my father-in-law's property on Hances Point 
Road, south of North East, this morning. The birding started rather slow 
but eventually I found a big mixed flock. I was alerted to the flock by 
the distant singing of a Pine Warbler. The chill in the air was lifted as 
I tuned into this perenial melody that (to me) is the trigger for warmer, 
longer days. Eventually I discovered not just one but as many as six Pine 
Warblers. Under the Pines, in the scrubs, I had about 25 Carolina 
Chickadees. In this flock I also had Golden-crowned Kinglet, Brown 
Creeper, and at least two Black-capped Chickadees that I suppose are hold-
overs from this years irruption. The BCCH's ID is based on voice, very 
hoarse and slow tempo, lower pitch, etc...  Next best bird was Yellow-
rumped Warbler (about 15 or so). This bird is not too common here in the 
winter months; therefore, the migration must be on.  

Good Birding
Chris Starling
North East, MD