Tim and I realized that the cold fronts have been pushing birds towards the coast, and the reports (and our experience at Rock Creek Park over the past two weeks) seemed to substantiate that idea. So this morning, we headed to Jug Bay. We arrived about an hour and change before the gate opened, so we parked by the second gate and wandered in. As soon as we got out of the car, we were greeted by masses of Ovenbirds, Northern Parulas, and Wood Thrush. As expected, but nonetheless wonderful. We also managed to find a Red-eyed Vireo despite the din.

At 8, we drove into the park and were surprised to learn that the fee ($5.00 per season for residents of PG and MoCo) had been dropped three years earlier. We hadn't been there in quite a few years. So made a contribution instead.

Tide was high so we headed to the boardwalk and then up the green trail. We were so happy to find at least a White-eyed Vireo, lots of Common Yellow-throats, a dozen Hooded Warblers, three Scarlet Tanagers. Numerous Blue-Gray Gnatcatchers. Eastern Phoebes, of course. 

We had hoped for a Worm-eating Warbler but no luck. We didn't look for the Ruff. 

See, Wallace? I told you all the good birds would show up at RCP if we went somewhere else! But we were quite happy with our basket of birds, too. 

Spring has FINALLY sprung.  

Ellen Paul
Tim Boucher

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