Still eagerly awaiting a diverse flock of warblers, but the Paint Branch
Trail has still been a fun place to bird of late.

The chats are back... two YELLOW-BREASTED CHATs on opposite sides of the
trail along the north tract.  I heard the one across the creek and initially
couldn't place it.  I could then hear the other and was able, at length, to
find it.  Both were easily visible once I knew what I was looking for.  Got
some photos (though probably poor ones as my photos always are) of the first
one spotted.  Not too many other warblers besides numerous YELLOW-RUMPED, a
singing PARULA, and what I think was a B-T GREEN  but only heard once.  I
also heard a trill first thing in the morning (took an audio recording), but
with my little experience, I'd be reluctant to call it a worm-eating
warbler.  Another nice new arrival was an EASTERN KINGBIRD that flew in just
after I walked by, but another birder called me back.  RUSTY BLACKBIRDs are
still present and singing at the top of the swamp (and have been for a few
weeks).

Other birds today included first GRAY CATBIRDs along the trail (seen
elsewhere in College Park on Saturday, Wood Thrush then too).  BALTIMORE
ORIOLE, RED-EYED and WHITE-EYED VIREO at multiple locations, a single
flyover COMMON LOON.  Also RUBY-THROATED HUMMINGBIRD and HOUSE WREN nearby.
 CHIMNEY SWIFTs near campus.  Several RED-SHOULDERED HAWKs too this morning
(plus RED-TAILED and KESTREL on way home yesterday).

A FEW OTHER RECENT ARRIVALS/SIGHTINGS:
Yesterday had a silent (but FOY) INDIGO BUNTING on the trail close to UMD
campus.  Last week (Friday?) there were 4 SOLITARY SANDPIPERS with a single
SNIPE in the field just above the swamp.  GREEN HERONs are back at the SWAMP.
Nesting BLUE-GRAY GNATCATCHERs. etc.

Good Birding,
Ryan Farrell
College Park, MD