The field trip had been scheduled for Friday which was the first day after duck season was over that driving in was allowed. The inclement weather took precedence. But to not be outdone, four hardy bird folks were treated to a great Saturday morning at Emeralda. The number of species (thirty-seven) could have been higher with calmer winds and more eyes. But some of the species seen were uncommon and a joy to behold.
A Snail Kite in the air was initially mistaken for a male Northern Harrier. Both have a white patch at the base of the tail. A bird photographer at that stop told us that a male and female Snail Kite are there.
A Snail Kite in the air was initially mistaken for a male Northern Harrier. Both have a white patch at the base of the tail. A bird photographer at that stop told us that a male and female Snail Kite are there.
At the same stop we watched a Caspian Tern diving for fish. Not far from the tern, a raft of sixty American White Pelicans entertained us. What a sight with the sun at our backs! Then some of them took to the air in small groups. One rode the thermals and circled over the lake with about eight Ospreys.
Other species of note were Marsh Wren, Northern Parula, and Song Sparrow.
Rey Wells
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