Wednesday, May 6, 2015

Early bird hour

Since I must report in to work at 7 am, an early bird attempt to get a chance at yesterdays Kentucky Warbler.So up at 5 am for the catch !

Along the west slope mid dirt track of Lookout Hill,4 EASTERN TOWHEES lined up along that section with WHITE THROATED SPARROWS & CATBIRDS. A bonus BROWN THRASHER appeared as well which gave me good looks despite its furtiveness.But no Kentucky luck this morning even as I listened for it. It does have a loud call. Two mammals to my surprise on the same dirt track, a RACCOON sauntered across and down the slope and a COTTONTAIL popped out , running along the track ( but alas NO Kentucky........)

In the Oak tree atop the Maryland Monument stairs, some warblers and buntings. CHESTNUT SIDED WARBLER was the best warbler& two male INDIGO BUNTINGS made a nice find ; but contrasty heavy overcast skies created difficult seeing.

The heavy cloud cover sometimes brings birds down to earth so good birding today.