There was a Black Tern flying over the western side of the south impoundment
at Craney Island today. Not quite sure if it was an immature or a bird in
complete winter plumage -- it never flew close by. I wish I had more time
to spend there.
There were at at least 2 adult White-rumped Sandpipers, in winter plumage,
on the western shoreline of the south impoundment, along with a Pectoral
Sandpiper, Semipalmated Sandpipers, Spotted Sandpipers, Lesser Yellowlegs,
and a few Semipalmated Plovers. There were more shorebirds further back,
but they were too far for ID. There may have been more than 2 White-rumps.
They moved around too much to allow a definite count. It was nice to hear
their call note, reminded me of a thin, quiet whistle. There were a few
Ruddy Ducks in the impoundment too, with a male in nice summer plumage --
quite striking.
Royal and Caspian Terns were present, loafing on a sandbar and flying, on
the west side of Craney. I will certainly miss the terns when the winter
comes.
Due to time limits, I was unable to check the rest of Craney Island.
There were Black-necked Stilts in the sightings log at the Craney Island
Office, but I did not see them and did not have time to look for them.
Elisa Enders
Portsmouth, VA
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