Hi Everyone,

During a very brief check of the Eagles Nest Campground (the new operation there is called Castaways), I saw 2 WHIMBRELS fly northeast a little after 11:00 this morning (4/16/2009).  They eventually disappeared on the ocean side of Assateague, perhaps landing there.

Earlier this week, during one of my fruitless searches for the Common Murre at the OC Inlet, I ran into the Coskrens, who had done some diplomacy on behalf of birders at Castaways (at the end of Eagles Nest Rd).  They reported that the folks at Castaways are very birder friendly but request that birders check in at the office to ask permission before birding.

The place to check in is the building on the right as you approach the right angle turn.  The building is marked "Welcome Center."  The people there were indeed welcoming and mentioned that some of their guests have asked about birds of the area.  I'll share some sightings with the office.

This is a great birding location--especially when sandbars are exposed during low tide.  It sounds like we can continue to enjoy this spot as long as we honor the wishes of the new owners.  Works for me!

Have fun,

Ron Gutberlet
Salisbury, MD