We visited Metompkin Island yesterday, in the few hours adjacent to the
afternoon high tide, looking for Wilson's Plovers. One bird was seen (lots of
heat shimmer) at about 0.5 miles south of Gargathy Inlet. Least, Common,
Forster's, and Gull-billed Terns were also seen in the area. Many Semipalmated
and a couple Piping Plovers were seen on the island. Semipalmated Sandpiper was
the only peep species found, and only one Red Knot (unbanded) was observed. One
Whimbrel was seen in the marsh along the creek, during the boat ride out from
Route 680. American Oystercatchers were common throughout the area.
On the way north, we stopped at the first island of the CBBT. We could not
re-find the previously reported Harlequin Duck, but did see at least 8 Purple
Sandpipers on the west side of the island.
Elisa Flanders
Portsmouth, VA
