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Subject:

Blackwater NWR comments 11/8/08

From:

PAUL NOELL

Reply-To:

PAUL NOELL

Date:

Sun, 9 Nov 2008 21:54:09 -0500

A late post for an initially drizzly day at Blackwater, gradually improving
to clearing conditions, highlighting the still-glorious colors of fall. I made
this jaunt with Jeanne Bowman. We had a total of 46 spp. Nothing out of
the ordinary. For anyone planning to see the area, a portion of the begin-
ning wildlife drive is cordoned off for work on that portion crossing Pool
1. When driving out from the Visitors' Center, driving east on Key Wal-
lace Drive, make the first right turn available, which takes one past the
rangers facility to the shortened back drive. One can access the Woods
Trail immediately to one's left; further driving-or walking-to the east is
prohibited.

The  Bald Eagles dominated the scene (at least 15). Additionally, a few
Great Blue Herons were seen, as well as several Pintails amongst the
predominant Mallards and a few Black Duck. No Pelicans were in evi-
dence, replaced by a lone Tundra Swan. In addition to several Red Tails
and a Shoulder, there was one scraggly-looking Broadwing Hawk on a
snag just east of the Center. A fair no. of Tree Swallows hawked the
area. Near the end of the wildlife drive, we had excellent 'scope looks
at a couple of Savannah Sparrows. Exiting the Refuge, we drove a few
miles on Rt. 335 towards Hip Roof Rd. and spotted a couple of Great
egrets.

A final soup con of generosity from this welcoming area: on our drive
back, about 1/2 way before reaching Easton, we pulled over to sample
an offering of $1.99/gal. of petrol. Nice.

Paul Noell
Balto.  MD