The warbler migration in the meadow continued on Tuesday and Wednesday but
with some diminution of activity compared to the holiday weekend mornings.
Warbler species totaled 11 on Tuesday and 9 on Wednesday with a gradually
shifting from predominately Magnolia and Chestnut-sided warblers over the
weekend to
predominately Magnolias and Redstarts on Wednesday and this morning. A Canada
Warbler was the only new warbler species not seen on the weekend.
My count today was only 6 warbler species. A heavy fog in the meadow
prevented the sun from warming the trees along Jeffery Rd. until almost 8 AM,
when
foraging action started in earnest. In addition to the warblers, a White-eyed
Vireo (not too often found here) and a Red-breasted Grosbeak were highlights.
I only observed one Y-B Cuckoo this morning. Wood-pewees and some Empidonax
flycatchers and Red-eyed Vireos were also about, but it was obvious that a lot
of birds had left to continue their migration.
With northerly winds predicted the next few nights, hopefully more warblers
are on the way. NOTE: The annual Indian Festival takes place at Riverbend this
coming Saturday 9/10 starting at 10 AM. Usually I am through birding the
meadow by 9:00 AM but did have some trouble retrieving my car from the Nature
Center parking lot two years ago because an attendant insisted that I pay the
fee
they charge to attend the Indian Festival. I assured her I had been there to
bird and was leaving, and would not pay the fee. So be forewarned.
Ralph Wall
Great Falls, VA
PS: A Veery visited my yard on 9/7.
