Trip report

Crane Island

Saturday, April 25, 2026

Crane Island: An American Redstart flaring its tail while foraging in a magnolia tree draped with Spanish moss.
Crane Island: An American Redstart flaring its tail while foraging in a magnolia tree draped with Spanish moss.
Painted Bunting
Painted Bunting A Painted Bunting (Greenie) singing alertly among reddish tree buds against a blue sky.
Western Kingbird
Western Kingbird April migration rarity: A Western Kingbird resting on a thin branch during a stopover in Fernandina Beach.
Hudsonian Whimbrel
Hudsonian Whimbrel A Hudsonian Whimbrel foraging on the dark mudflats, showcasing its long down-curved bill and distinct head stripes.
Black-throated Blue Warbler
Black-throated Blue Warbler A male Black-throated Blue Warbler perched on a thick branch, showing its clean white underparts and signature white wing spot.

The Outing

About a dozen of us enjoyed beautiful weather on Saturday that caused me to think we would not see many migrants. However, we observed at least 59 species and maybe a couple more after viewing photos and comparing notes with those who attended.

The most unusual was a Western Kingbird, which we initially thought was an Eastern Kingbird (expected this time of year). The bird was behind the chain-link fence on the airport grounds, so our binoculars were insufficient to confirm. But Kristin's camera had enough zoom to confirm that it was a rare Western Kingbird. Other unexpected birds included the Hudsonian Whimbrel and a Northern Harrier.

We had at least 9 warbler species and a possible 10th being a Prothonotary Warbler. Unfortunately, we did not get a photo of the 10th. Richard Timm was able to get a photo of a Black-throated Blue Warbler. A female was also present.

Good birding, Bill George

Pro Tip for iNaturalist & our group SHARE project

VIEW 50 + PHOTOS FROM CRANE ISLAND Pro Tip for iNaturalist: To see our specific photos and field notes, make sure you stay on the "Observations" tab and click any of the 29 thumbnails. Avoid the "Species" tab, as that displays photos from all over the world!

Attribution: The Black-throated Blue Warbler photo is © Richard Timm • All Rights Reserved. Other bird photos are shared with some rights reserved; click any of the images to visit iNaturalist for full observation and copyright details.

Layout and posting by Kristin Herring