I paid my first visit to the Potomac Heritage Trail section just north of
Bles Park as part of my duties as block coordinator for Sterling 3 for the
Loudon County Bird Census. Despite intimidating signs everywhere warning
that everything but the path is private property, I saw some neat birds
including a lifer for me. Highlights included a male Black-throated Green
in full breeding plumage and my first Great Crested Flycatcher, whose raspy
call is really awesome the first time you hear it. I also heard and later
flushed a Barred-Owl. The only other warblers appeared to be Yellow Rumps,
although there were lots of Blue-gray Gnatcatchers, as well as the usual
woodland residents.
Lucy Uncu
Falls Church
