Yesterday at Freedom Park in Sykesville I saw 12 Gnatcatchers which may be a sign of the birds flocking for migration. At home 2 Ring-billed Gulls flying over were my first fall migrants. 

   Today at Liberty Watershed off Bollinger Mill Road I saw Parula, Black-&-white Warbler, Redstart, and Ovenbird. All of these may be local breeders or early migrants. A Yellowthroat was still singing and I probably heard a Hooded Warbler calling. At least 8 Red-eyed Vireos were still singing on territory. 

   This afternoon at Piney Run Park a drake Ruddy Duck was a surprise, probably the first I have seen here in summer. Also present were a Great Egret, a Spotted Sandpiper, and 6 Ring-billed Gulls. 

Bob Ringler 
Eldersburg MD