An extended search for Black Scoters at Point Lookout paid off with the 
appearance of a male HARLEQUIN DUCK on Monday 2/18. It was in a mixed 
flock north of the fishing pier, seen first for just a split second, but then later 
several times, once for up to a few minutes, as we were able to take turns at 
the scope. We were intrigued to see this small duck chasing the larger Surf 
Scoters. 

Others in the flock, in addition to the predominant Surf Scoters, were Greater 
Scaup, a few distant Black Scoters, Long-tailed Ducks, Buffleheads, Common 
Goldeneyes, and Red-breasted Mergansers. There were also Red-throated 
Loons, at least one Common Loon, and Horned Grebes.

We thought we had seen a very distant NORTHERN GANNET flying down the 
St. Mary's side of the Patuxent across from Solomon's and had better looks at 
several individuals over the bay at Point Lookout.

Leslie Starr & Joe Turner
Baltimore & Port Republic