Maryland Pelagics and the Morning Star had another excellent pelagic trip out of Ocean City this past Saturday, 2/4.  Leaving at 5 am and returning at 4:30 pm, sea conditions were great and a dedicated core of birders kept the numbers coming all day!!  Thanks to all the participants, co-leaders, Matt Hafner and Mikey Lutmerding, and Capt. Monty Hawkins, who continues to put us on the birds!! 

  

The final (offshore) tally was as follows: 

  

White-winged Scoter - 2 

Northern Fulmar - 3 

Red-throated Loon - 2 

Common Loon - 23 

Northern Gannet - 100 

Black-legged Kittiwake - 6 

Bonaparte's Gull - 8 

Herring Gull - 26 
Lesser Black-backed Gull - 1 

Great Black-backed Gull - 20 

Dovekie - 2,334 

Common Murre - 1 

Razorbill - 69 

large alcid (sp.) - 1 

Atlantic Puffin - 3 

  

Needless to say, the highlight was the large number of Dovekies all day.  I believe this may be a record state count.  The single Common Murre was a brief fly-by, but the puffins all cooperated very well and we got killer looks.  Many great views of fly-by Razorbills as well, only a handful on the water.  The fulmars and kittiwakes were nice as well.  A good way to start the winter pelagic season.   All in all, a simply great trip. 

  

If you haven't signed up for the See Life Paulagics trip this coming Saturday http://www.paulagics.com/site/   - what more encouragement do you need??? 

  

Calm seas and good birding, 

Mark Hoffman 

 

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