Hi all,
 I led my first of the season bird-walk for The Backyard Naturalist to  Blue 
Mash nature trail this morning, not expecting a whole lot because of the  cold 
biting wind. I was somewhat surprised at both the number of species and  
number of birders who stuck it out! We ended with 44-45 species, depending on  who 
you ask, highlights being a flock of approx. 200 RUSTY BLACKBIRDs in the wet  
woods along the back. Other nice finds were a Northern Harrier getting in a 
tiff  with a male American Kestrel, both getting feisty with the other in an  
air-battle; very neat to watch. Also we saw lots of Tree Swallows,  bluebirds, 
a couple of Brown Thrashers (one singing), Fox Sparrow, Wilson's  Snipe and 
Killdeer, Red-tailed and Shouldered Hawks, a pair of E. Phoebe's and  
Yellow-rumped Warblers, Pied-billed Grebe and a pair o flyover Common Loons,  Belted 
Kingfisher, Pileated Woodpecker, N. Flicker, etc. 
 
Many common species, but my group of 12 consisted mostly of beginners, so  we 
were all impressed by the variety. I had along 3 young boys (and  dads) all 
of whom were eager to make ID's and learn. I hope they will join  me for more 
walks this season!
 
What a pleasant day, full of surprises!
 
Rick Sussman
Woodbine,MD




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