Some interesting findings and omissions on this morning's Huntley Meadows
Monday Morning Birdwalk. Over 30 birders joined us on a cold, overcast
morning, and we spotted 48 species. Of the interesting sightings was a huge
'cast' of Black Vultures. Around 40 were seen circling the central wetlands.
None of the regular old timers on this walk could remember ever seeing that
many of this species in one place before. Perhaps less dramatic was the
spotting of one Gray Catbird. While our area is shown as a possible wintering
site of these birds, they are very unusual for Huntley in winter. By way of
omission, we were unable to spot even one Tufted Titmouse. Again, no one could
recall that ever happening on a Monday Walk.
Canada Goose 143
Wood Duck 4
Gadwall 14
American Black Duck 2
Mallard 75
Northern Shoveler 12
Northern Pintail 15
Green-winged Teal 65
Hooded Merganser 2
Great Blue Heron 2
Black Vulture 40
Turkey Vulture 4
Sharp-shinned Hawk 1
Bald Eagle 4
Red-shouldered Hawk 1
Ring-billed Gull 4
Mourning Dove 5
Barred Owl 1
Red-headed Woodpecker 5
Red-bellied Woodpecker 10
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker 1
Downy Woodpecker 8
Hairy Woodpecker 1
Northern Flicker 2
Pileated Woodpecker 4
Blue Jay 9
American Crow 10
Fish Crow 2
crow sp. 5
Carolina Chickadee 6
White-breasted Nuthatch 8
Brown Creeper 3
Carolina Wren 4
American Robin 4
Gray Catbird 1
European Starling 20
Cedar Waxwing 6
Dark-eyed Junco 15
White-throated Sparrow 31
Song Sparrow 9
Swamp Sparrow 2
Northern Cardinal 3
Red-winged Blackbird 16
Rusty Blackbird 3
Common Grackle 3
House Finch 6
American Goldfinch 24
House Sparrow 1
The Monday Morning Birdwalk has been a weekly event at Huntley Meadows since
1985. It takes place every week, rain or shine (except during electrical
storms, strong winds, or icy trails), at 8AM (7AM from April through October),
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.
Questions should be directed to Park staff during normal business hours at
(703)768-2525.
Harry GlasgowFriends of Huntley Meadows Park
