Greetings,

I traveled to Cambridge this AM arriving right at dawn and was happily met be two rather well known out-of-staters; and, I am not refering to the ducks! lol - Matt Hafner and Zach Baer (spelling??) were there. It was nice to see them again.

They immidiantly informed me that all three rarities were in attendance. Wanting to see the two rarer of the three, we ventured onto the wooden dock and quickly found the Tufted Duck and the Barrow's Goldeneye!!!!! The TUDU was actually the closest bird to us among the 100 or so waterfowl swimming around the confines of the outer marina thoroughfare. The Barrow's was not as cooperative but did give adequate views as it stayed fartherst from us in the outer western corner down near the yacht club. Still, it was well lit at times and gave stunning views when seen through the scope.  Alas, while we were out on the ducks a large flock of waterfowl passed by and flew down river. The Eurasian Wigeon, which was seen by Zach, must have been in this passing flock, as I was unable to view it; though, I tried from numerous locations along the Cambridge waterfront...

Returning to Cecil County, I had approx. 10,000 Snow Geese at the rt. 309 pond in Queen Annes Co.

Finding the Dorchester ducks so easily was certainly a thrill but my day wasn't done. At the North East Town Park (Cecil County), I was able to locate a very pale first year Iceland Gull.  It was a stunningly different bird compared to the other gulls in attendance. Photos exist for those interested. 

All in all, I was done birding by noon, locating 15 waterfowl sp. Other Dorchester highlights included Surf Scoters, Long-tailed Ducks, and MANY Common Goldeneyes on the Choptank.  Cecil County tidal waters are iced up tight enough to support ten or so ice fishermen in North East!  I may have to break out the ice skates tomorrow...

Stay warm!
Chris Starling
North East, MD