Hey folks,
I spent a hour or so in the Ashville Park development, this afternoon, looking
for the Loggerhead Shrike that had been seen last year and early this year. It
was a long-shot, but I can't let go of hope that the bird stuck around, found a
mate, and is nesting. However, I could not find the shrike. It is probably long
gone, but you never know. Even now, I hope!
I did hear a Ovenbird, several Northern Bobwhite, and lots of Field Sparrows in
this area.
In the evening, I completed a nightjar survey, along Blackwater Road (starting
at Pungo Ferry Road and ending at Salem Road). This is the 3rd or 4th year that
I have completed this particular survey and have yet to find any nightjars
along the route. Unfortunately, it seemed that every jet from Oceana Naval Air
Station was in the air. I was hoping to only suffer future hearing damage from
a singing Rusty Blackbird, perched on my shoulder, but that is a little
unrealistic anyway. I was able to hear Green and Squirrel Tree-Frogs, but no
birds were heard. Not even a Barred Owl called.
Even with the disappointments, it was nice to be out.
Elisa Enders
Portsmouth, VA
