On the morning of March 1st, I made a short visit to Huntley Meadows.
I was especially impressed by the male ducks and mergansers in their
full courting plumage. Pairs seen: Ring-necked Duck (near old dam),
several N. Shovelers, several Hooded Mergansers, numerous Green-winged
Teals, and many Mallards. The other birds seen in the wetlands were
the "regulars." Mystery bird of the day was a large one, with a light colored
rump, flying through the woods near the inland trail.
The wetlands were wetter than I've seen them for a long time! The ice
is almost entirely gone so there is open water in the main pond and around
the downstream lodge. The beavers have been busy, maintaining several
dams downstream from the old dam. As you come onto the boardwalk,
notice the recent beaver cuts to the left. From their height, I would guess
they were done when there was still snow and ice on the ground.
Before the boardwalk, my favorite stump is a lot stumpier! It must have
started falling to pieces and was deemed a public hazard.
At the visitor's center, I retrieved my 3 submssions to the photo contest.
I'll send them to 3 grandchildren (who will thank me politely?). The next
exhibit will feature quilts; the opening reception is 2 to 4 Sunday afternoon.
Dex Hinckley
703-354-1342
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