We had a really good day, despite clouds, mizzle, and a
cold breeze. Spring birds are beginning to return. Everything is
singing. There are nests to watch. Etc.
The highlight, though, was a very unexpected Toucan, which sat on one of
the dirt piles north of the East Meadow. Nobody had the right field
guides to get it to species, unfortunately.
Other highlights:
Cackling Goose Still 1-2 small flocks overhead
Western Screech-Ow l Calling loudly near windmill, 5:30-6:00ish
Band-tailed Pigeon 4 flew over Rowing Club area
Violet-green Swallow A few mixed in with lots of Tree Swallows
Northern Shrike One in East Meadow
Red-breasted Nuthatch Excavating nest NE of mansion
Common Yellowthroat Several hear, none seen
At the Rowing Club, we scoped the ANNA's x RUFOUS HUMMINGBIRD. Matt got
to see it flare its tail, showing the extensive orange. For the rest of
us, we
could see a hint of orange on the sides, and the gorget which is never
pink - just an inbetween reddish-orange. We did not hear it at all.
For the day, 61 species, plus the toucan. ;)
== Michael
Toucan sp., north of the Compost Piles.
First duckling of the year, but there was no adult in sight.
European Starling
American Robin
American Crow
Red-breasted Nuthatch excavating hole.
Ollie Oliver's photo of same. They nested in this hole last year
Golden-crowned Kinglet
Where did that iPod go? I heard it singing...
Brown Creeper. Photo by Ollie Oliver
Marsh Wren. Photo by Ollie Oliver