I went to White's Ferry yesterday evening to take another look at the Great Blue colony on the island c. 250 yds south of the ferry crossing.  Since river levels are low, I could walk 2/3 of the way towards the island on the Maryland side.
   
  There are about 15 Great Blue nests visible most with 1-2 young; they look like they will fledge within the next 2 weeks.  More interestingly there were around 6 or so Great Egrets also there.  One of these - I presume it was the same one - made 4 trips within 20 minutes bringing back a large stick each time to the same perch.  I think its likely that these may be dispersed failed breeders, with the stick-carrying bird perhaps acting on hormonal drive rather than making a serious nesting attempt.  It seems a little late to be starting nesting.  Moreover the Great Blue colony seems to be a roosting spot for what seem to be over-summering non-breeders: there were around 20-25 D/C cormorants present by dusk.  But, who knows?
   
  Also present were a pair of Spotted Sandpiper, a single Black Duck with Mallard, and an overflying B/C Night Heron.
   
  Regards
   
  Clive Harris
  Cabin John, MD