Hi all --

Barry and I went to Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens (KAG)this morning and found
the ALDER FLYCATCHER still very vocal and obvious singing in the marsh off
the short boardwalk (left-hand lookout). A singing Willow FC in the gardens
proper made a nice contrast -- the Alder appeared darker and browner but
that could have just been the light.

Not much else at KAG other than the expected (no Least Bittern) -- Orchard
Oriole, Parula, Yellow Warbler and Yellowthroat all singing -- as well as
three vireos, Warbling, Red-eyed and White-eyed.

Over at Kenilworth Park, a walk into the back end past the Jersey barriers
yielded two more singing Willow FC and two Yellow-breasted Chats -- good
looks at one of them, FOY for us (really!). No Blue Grosbeak was heard but
we didn't do the whole area.

We spoke for a while with employees at KAG -- the recent flooding destroyed
the various Tree Swallow nest boxes out in the marsh, and they no longer
have funds to replace these. The number of employees has dropped to 2-3
(from 10) so they have to concentrate on just maintaining the gardens --
they do have some volunteer help with this.  They would like to replace the
nest boxes and perhaps add a Martin house. Certainly great habitat. This
might be a good volunteer project for a bird club, scout troop or for
individuals -- if anyone is interested contact me and I will find out the
correct office to contact.

Gail Mackiernan and Barry Cooper
Colesville, MD