Tables were turned on some Piney Run Am crows this morning: Instead of  
mobbing a hawk they were repeatedly chased by an adult Cooper's hawk.   This took 
place near the boat ramp.  The hawk flew very close behind the  crow for a 
short way before landing in a tree. Several crows were present.   The crows 
repeatedly uttered a strange rattling call which I have never heard  before.  I got 
the impression that this was not life and death stuff as, in  between chases, 
all birds stood around on the lower branches of the white pines  and the crows 
absently pecked at things, with no wild calling.  Was the  hawk practising or 
just playing:?  Would appreciate any comments.
 
On the lake were the usual water fowl, including a male wigeon and 2  females.
 
A hermit thrush appeared briefly on an exposed branch of the Pawlonia tree  
near the entrance to Hugg Thomas WMA, dipped its tail and flew off..
 
At home (near Rt. 99 and Waverley ES) we have several red breasted  
nuthatches regularly at the sunflower feeder, but no siskins (yet).
 
Robin Todd
Ellicott City
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