Trip Report, Heritage River Road 9-19-20

Although the weather was blustery with early rain showers and high winds with coastal flooding, we were able to observe hundreds of birds as the rain ceased upon our arrival. We clearly identified 27 species but saw others that were hidden in mixed groups of birds. The high water forced the birds to pockets of land that were often too far for even our scopes to ID. I have attached a photo of Roseate Spoonbills mixed with Wood Storks and Snowy Egrets as an example. Counting all Spoonbills the number exceeded 100. There were also numerous Short-billed Dowitchers and peeps such as Least Sandpipers. Only one Clapper Rail showed itself by crossing the road in front of our group. We heard several others calling. The Reddish Egrets put on their displays of staggered hunting walks. Little Blue and Tri-colored Herons stood out in their colorful plumage.
Our next trip will be during the week, Thursday October 8th at Katherine Hannah Abbey which has been a good warbler trap during migration. Warblers have been on the move today with northerly winds pushing them along. Seven species were observed today in my neighborhood with highlights being Tennessee, Black-throated Blue and a colorful male Cape May Warbler. Pierre Allaire and I will scout the park Tuesday October 6th and on Thursday we will depart from Harris Teeters at 7:30 am. Please email if you are interested in either trip.