While I was out working on invasive plants, a large flock of American Robins
moved in and foraged in areas recently cleared of an English Ivy carpet.
Carolina Chickadees were busy in the area as well -- numbers coming back up,
slowly, after West Nile Virus hit. Tufted Titmice etc. also. Noisy Blue Jays
and American Crow flocks in the area. Brief peek at a Red-shouldered Hawk
executing a successful, stealthy getaway from the crows.
Leaving, I heard and saw activity. To my surprise, a group of at least 5 Hermit
Thrushes was operating in the immediate area of the nature center parking lot
and seemed to be hanging out by and possibly bathing in the stream. The light
was dim and I didn't have magnification, but I believe there were some other
birds of possible interest around also. I had conjectured that clearing
non-native invasive plants from the stream banks and surrounding area might
begin to attract more birds, and I am feeling cautiously encouraged so far.
Cheers,?? Steve Young, Glencarlyn/Long Branch Nature Center, Arlington
