Hi Everyone, 

I went for a short hike along the Patapsco in the Avalon tract of Patapsco
Valley State Park. The definite highlight was a VESPER SPARROW in the
"meadow" area just over the river in Howard Co. It was feeding in the
"growing, not mowing" area just upriver from the little playground's
swingset. It was present from 5:15 to at least 5:40, and I wouldn't be
surprised if it was refound tomorrow. The Avalon tract is just off Rte. 1
near the intersection of Rte. 1 and 195. Drive to the T-intersection in
the park, take a left, and park in the parking lot ahead and to the right.
The open meadow area is right along the river. Good luck if anyone tries
for it.

Also present on the hike were 5 GOLDEN-CROWNED KINGLETs, at least 10
CHIPPING SPARROWs, and just one WHITE-THROATED SPARROW and one DARK-EYED
JUNCO. At least one EASTERN BLUEBIRD was also hanging around the meadow.

The forest floor has gone from brown to green in just days. Skunk Cabbage
has come up along every damp area, and I noted my first Common Mullein of
the year. Around the vernal pools was the constant trill of American
Toads, accented by many Spring Peepers. I found two small snakes dead on
the road--one Garter, one Brown (Storeria dekayi). I've never seen this
snake alive, though I understand them to be quite common.

Have a great night,

Bill

Bill Hubick
St. Denis, Baltimore Co., Maryland

http://www.billhubick.com