I just got back from a week at Chincoteague. Things had changed
significantly from my trip in early September. Shorebird migration is
winding down. Every year, I forget how early shorebirds start their way
south. I checked the Claudia Wild data for Chincoteague and she noted that
total shorebird numbers peak in early August! Tides were very high early
in my stay (overwashing the beach) and winds were off the ocean.
A good variety of shorebirds remain -- even if numbers are lower. And
there were a few additions: whimbrels -- several around; long-billed
dowitchers; and a plover (I'm calling it an American Golden Plover). Many
of the shorebirds are juveniles.
I spent more time on upland birds than I usually do, and the woodland trail
turned pretty birdy once the winds changed on 9/22. Notable birds
included: philadelphia vireo, a dozen baltimore orioles at once!;
Tennessee, BTG, Blackburnian, Pine, Magnolia, Redstarts, Parula,
Yellowthroats, a Chat, and Rose Breasted Grosbeak.
I was hoping Ned -- or someone could -- take a look at two of the plovers I
have pictures of: the one I think is the Golden Plover. It is a
Juvenile. It was very dark -- with a brownish belly. It had a very
distinctive ear spot, a dark nape, small bill, and rather short wing
projections (hmmm).
The second plover is a juvenile semipalmated plover. It is a bit odd. It
has pale pink legs.
Other birds of note: Juvenile Yellow Crowned Night Herons continue in the
marshes on the south end of Main Street. I have some video of one dancing
while it hunts. Poor fiddler crabs don't have much of a chance.
I also had someone point out three Yellow Billed Cuckoos on the woodland
trail (thanks!). Two were juveniles -- they still had black and pinkish
bills (no yellow -- even in late September). One of the juvies was begging
food from the other juvenile (curious).
I'd appreciate thoughts on some of these birds.
Here is a link:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/73831614@N00/albums/72157716137873927
Bill
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