This morning, I walked along Accotink Stream, just north of the lake, and
then visited Lake Braddock, all in the Annandale area of Fairfax County (and
in my 'local patch').
Highlights:
- I thought there were a lot of Ruby-crowneds at the weekend, but today
eclipsed that showing. I counted over 50 birds in a very small area along
Accotink Stream. They were all in an expanse of low bushes, which had just
leafed out. Lots of singing Common Yellowthroats and Northern Parulas, and
several Swamp Sparrows.
- Lake Braddock had a Broad-winged Hawk circling above it for a few minutes
before continuing its journey. A Pied-billed Grebe, almost in full breeding
plumage was also there, along with a couple of Eastern Kingbirds and a few
Tree Swallows.
- Returning home, I found a couple of Dark-eyed Juncos over-staying their
welcome, as well as a recently dead Hermit Thrush - NOW IN MY FREEZER - can
anyone make good (and legal!) use of it?
Stephen Eccles
