Walked two blocks on Strawberry, 1/3 mi. west on Washington Av., 1/2 mi. N on
Fig St. and along Kings Creek and into Kings Bay Village (N side of Cape
Charles). South (about a mile) along the bay, Bay shore to harbor and west
along N shore of harbor along Railroad tracks. About three hours -- 5 to 8 am.
Very dark and overcast through 630 - 7 am, overcast, warm, SSW breeze (<10
mph), bay flat.
Long-eared Owl called twice at about 6 am from the mature pine woodlands across
Kings Creek. Very calm night, heard clearly giving its song. Called twice, a
prolonged low dove-like 'hoooo' each lasting <1.5 sec., with an interval of
about 2.5 sec. Only called twice although I stayed listening for another 30
minutes. It is the typical song; may have wintered here and been the same one
I spot lighted further south but close by at Marina Villiage East of Fig St. 7
Jan.
Numbers of N. Gannets continue to be abundant just offshore, about 1700
plunging for food; all adults save one Juv. (first Ive seen this year). A B.
Pelican was working among them. Savannah Sparrows are moving now. After non
all winter, 10 - 15/day since early Mar. Adult Bald Eagle flew over carrying
nesting material excorted by two anxious Ospreys. Bufflehead continue to be
the most common waterfowl, about 180 all along the shore and around the
jetties. Many in pairs, but several rafts of 25 - 30 (ratio 65/35 female:
male).
David Abbott
11 Park Row
Cape Charles VA
gadflypetrel@xxxxxxxxx
