The third Merganser species of the Prospect year has arrived but from the looks of it, it appears stressed.
A hen RED-BREASTED MERGANSER was spotted sitting on the west shore wall of Prospect Lake. When I was observing it, I thought it was unusual being out of the water. A closer inspection looks like the the head is slicked down as if oil or grease is affecting the bird. A call to the Prospect Park Natural Resources crew has been made, but it might be tough trying to get it with flight still able.
In the widening lake west side , 4 COMMON MERGANSER continue their long stay. We are missing yesterday's Hooded Merganser for the rare trifecta.
Gus Keri reported to me that he found one AMERICAN WOODCOCK on the north side of the Warrior Path / Mulberry Ave intersection; the woodcock was so well camouflaged under a beech tree that it took a sneeze from Gus to flush the bird right below him.. Amazing the camouflage these shorebird possess.
UPDATE : Martin Woess of the Natural Resources crew came very close to capturing the merganser, a few feet but the duck as expected flew off towards the Rink where it was not relocated. We still dont know whats the issue with its head without closer examination.We'll look again tomorrow.