We began with two, then four, 6 and finally ended with 8 birders. Timing was everything. Traffic was heavy and some were delayed. But with the low tide, we still were able to find some shorebirds before and just after entering the park. Heading off to the Nature Center to check on what had been seen and then to the dog park. Wading through the tidal pools gave us the reward of two very cooperative American Oystercatchers. But continuing on to the area most inhabited by Plovers brought some disappointment. It seems Hurricane Irma has changed the landscape from my recollection of it from last year. Several Semi-palmated Plovers was the extent of our viewing here. The island was extremely busy for a weekday. People everywhere.
Photo by Fred Hileman
Photo by Fred Hileman
We then went to the Nature Trail to see the Great Horned Owls. Tom Gulley took the photos of the two sleepy chicks and mother as she looked on from a nearby tree. For this part of the trip we got 40 species and can be seen at this eBird link.
Off to the Lucky Dill for lunch. And then onto Fred Howard Beach for a great disappointment. People everywhere and the highest tide I have ever seen there. The one saving grace was a single Marbled Godwit. But the lack of birds there did not spoil the rest of what was a bright, sunny day in Florida.
Fred Hileman
President
CCAS
Off to the Lucky Dill for lunch. And then onto Fred Howard Beach for a great disappointment. People everywhere and the highest tide I have ever seen there. The one saving grace was a single Marbled Godwit. But the lack of birds there did not spoil the rest of what was a bright, sunny day in Florida.
Fred Hileman
President
CCAS
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