This morning's very dense fog limited the bird sightings on the Huntley Meadows
Monday Morning Birdwalk. Coupled with the fog, the chilly temperatures
probably played a major role in our reduced participation of only 7 as well.
But even in these sub-optimal conditions, we spotted 39 species, with a dozen
American Pipits flying across the Central Wetlands as being the major highlight
of the morning. Additional notable sightings include the first American Tree
sparrow of the season; both Rail species being easily found; a huge flock of
Common Grackles crossing the wetlands; and 6 of the 7 species of woodpecker
normally seen at Huntley in winter. The fog provided a surreal setting as
birds disappeared into the mist flying only yards from the observer.
Canada Goose 62
Gadwall 1
Mallard 23
Northern Shoveler 8
Green-winged Teal 2
Hooded Merganser 2
Red-shouldered Hawk 2
King Rail 2
Virginia Rail 2
Mourning Dove 3
Red-headed Woodpecker 3
Red-bellied Woodpecker 6
Downy Woodpecker 9
Hairy Woodpecker 2
Northern Flicker 3
Pileated Woodpecker 2
Blue Jay 4
American Crow 37
Carolina Chickadee 9
Tufted Titmouse 7
White-breasted Nuthatch 6
Carolina Wren 5
Eastern Bluebird 3
American Robin 4
Northern Mockingbird 1
European Starling 3
American Pipit 12
Yellow-rumped Warbler 4
American Tree Sparrow 1
Field Sparrow 4
Song Sparrow 12
Swamp Sparrow 10
White-throated Sparrow 19
Northern Cardinal 12
Red-winged Blackbird 6
Common Grackle 600
Purple Finch 1
House Finch 1
American Goldfinch 5
The Monday Morning birdwalk has been a weekly event at Huntley Meadows since
1985. It takes place every week, rain or shine, at 7 AM, is free of charge,
requires no reservation, and is open to all. Birders meet in the parking lot
at the Park's entrance at 3701 Lockheed Blvd, Alexandria, VA.. For questions
call the Park during normal business hours at (703) 768-2525.. With the onset
of winter, be advised that unsafe trail conditions may cause the cancelling of
any of the Monday Morning walks at the last moment.
Harry Glasgow
Friends of Huntley Meadows Park
