The BBWD was still at the lake-side residential garden on Lake
Audubon, Reston, Fairfax County, this morning at 7:30 AM (Tuesday 20
July). Exactly where it was described in previous posts.
I viewed it from a kayak, so I can't add any insight about approaching
it from the land side. The bird was about 15-20 feet up the slope
from the water's edge, hence at a higher elevation than the weeds, so
it was in full view from the water. It was roughly centered behind
the house, not very convenient for anyone on land peeking around from
either side of the house.
Use of the water is restricted to Reston residents. However the lake
is used so little that I doubt anyone will be offended by an
occasional quiet canoer or kayakker. There's a nice put-in with
parking spaces on Twin Branches Road. From there, paddle west,
avoiding the northern branch of the lake. The garden is on the right
about half way to the far west end.
There were also many Green Herons, Wood Ducks, and one Great Blue
Heron, as well as more common species.
Thanks very much to Charles, Bob, Todd, Mark, and Stephen. And anyone
else who alerted us to this wonderful find. I got paddle-away views.
(Like a "walk-away view", but from a kayak?)
- Steve Johnson
Fairfax, VA
