We also had the Pelicans and our favorite for the day was a MEADOWLARK that
we saw along the drive into the Nature Center. We also had N HARRIER, but no
Short-eared owls. Eagles all over the place. And the Pintails looked nice.
Good day. And the $1.599 gas has spread north into Easton. At this rate it
should be free by about February.

Jerry Tarbell
Carroll County

Subject: Blackwater Refuge 12-6-08


Les,

I had a bird walk at Blackwater yesterday sat. Dec. 6th. for the Christmas
Open House presented by The Friends of Blackwater.   While the total number
of species was low, we did find a couple of goodies.  In a large flock
(1,000+) of incoming geese we picked out 1 Cackling Goose.  The size
difference is noticeable at once.  Upon landing about 400 feet away in the
water, I was able to set my scope on this bird and everyone could see the
short neck, small bill and small body not much larger than a Mallard.  Wish
Jean Crump had been there.  Also seen  were 5  American  White Pelicans on
the water and in flight near end of wildlife drive, 4 Common Mergansers, all
females, one flyby flock of 4 Hooded Mergansers, over 100 Tundra Swan with a
few small migrant flocks overhead, 2 Ruddy ducks, 100s of N. Pintails and
Mallards with a few Black Ducks for good measure.  One small covey of 4
Northern Bobwhite (always a red letter day to see or hear any Bobwhite), and
5 American Kestrels seen on Egypt Rd. on my way home.   Almost 40 Bald
Eagles seen with several paired off.  No Snow Geese.   I  think they were
off refuge feeding.  Nice event by Friends of Blackwater.

Terry Allen