VA BIRDers,
Yesterday, Rich Rieger and I observed an adult (prob. male) Mississippi Kite
flying over the ball field next to Waynewood Elem. School near Fort Hunt. The
bird flew and wheedled about over the field and nearby trees hawking insects
at about 1215 Sunday. It then languidly flew south over our heads and out of
sight.
Mississippi Kites have been regularly reported in the Waynewood area since
the beginning of July. The best times appear to be between noon and 1 pm. The
birds are often seen flying over the ball field or eastish over the houses to
the nearby Waynewood Recreation Center (with pool). I am sure it will not be
long before this bird(s) leave the area. (This species has been noted in this
area for the last two years.)
To find this location, drive south on GW Parkway about 2-3 miles starting
from the vicinity of the beltway or Dyke Marsh area. Turn right onto Waynewood
and drive about 2/3 of a mile - you will pass the rec center first and then
come to the school, both locations on your right. This street ends at Fort
Hunt
Rd. (If you see the sign for Fort Hunt Park from the GW Parkway, you have
gone one exit too far.)
This makes me wonder how many other Mississippi Kites are hanging around
Fairfax County neighborhoods (or those of other cities, too). The Waynewood
area
has mature trees around houses that are 30-40 years old with nearby Fort Hunt
and Little Hunting Creek providing a bit more extensive habitat. It appears
that the species has adapted to our suburban habitat.
Kurt Gaskill
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