My son has been asking to visit the banding station at Kiptopeke SP for
several weeks now (he remembers going there years ago and he's not quite 8).
He reminded me Friday that today was a teacher workday at his school and a
perfect day to go to KSP! We got a late start for various reasons and
missed the Bicknell's thrush, but I will be happy to send a few photos of
some very nice birds we did see. They were all ready for their close-ups.
It is always a pleasure to visit this banding station and hawk watch. Not
to be missed if you have been procrastinating, and this is a great chance to
learn more about Coastal Virginia Wildlife Observatory (CVWO) and the
valuable work they do throughout the year. Thanks for the hospitality
Jethro, Katie, Renee and others-sorry I don't know the names of everyone who
was volunteering there!
Other sightings-2 osprey at Island 1 heading south, 3 brown pelicans headed
south between Island 1 and the toll plaza, 1 broadwing at Arlington and
Custis Tomb Rds. as we headed home, a hairy WP near the parking area for the
hawk watch, and a great black backed gull on nearly every light pole for
many miles. Lots of butterflies everywhere-even what looked like
swallowtails all along the CBBT. No dolphins seen today, though I did see
them south of Island 1 on 9/12. Most of the hawks were very high today, and
there were no birds in the sod and potato fields on Arlington Rd. with the
exception of vultures and crows in one field. Some of the home building
seems to have come to a halt on Arlington Rd. Have a great day!
Jan
Richmond
