On 17 June, while doing field work in the Pocomoke-Nassawango Important Bird
Area near Whiton in Wicomico County, I observed a sub-adult MISSISSIPPI KITE
soaring above the bottomland forests along the Pocomoke River in both
Wicomico and Worcester Counties. This individual was nearly all gray above
on its back and long, slender, pointed wings and mostly gray below with a
whitish head. Its long tail which flared toward the tip had visible dark and
white bands. The property from which I observed this bird is private land,
but the nearest public road is Whiton Crossing Rd. Anyone interested in
searching this area could drive any of the local roads surrounding this
forest block (with much of the forest adjacent to agricultural fields). I
suspect this bird was a wanderer or late migrant, as I have been advised
that it is likely too early in the breeding season for a true juvenile.
However, the nearby habitat is quite excellent, and the forests along the
Pocomoke River boast an abundance of insects including many odonates - so
good breeding potential exists in the nearby environs.

Good birding!

David

-- 
David Yeany II
IBA Program Coordinator
Audubon MD-DC
2437 Eastern Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21224
Phone: 814-221-4361
Email: