December 2008 through December 2009

Transcription

Dec 30, 2009 –Mills River, Hooper Lane, Lake Julian, Beaver Lake
Chased after Wayne Forsythe & Ron Selveys Common Goldeneye at the water treatment pond on
highway 191 in Mills River, had good looks at 2 Goldeneyes, also present 1 Ring-Billed Gull.
Also checked Hooper Lane and had a Kestrel.
On the way back to Asheville I also stopped by Lake Julian and found 2 M & 5 F Red Breasted
Mergansers,
10 Ruddy Ducks.
Ended up the year, (with one afternoon left), with 175 mountain birds & 121 Beaver Lake birds.
Reported by Vin Stanton
Dec 19 & 20, 2009 –Leicester patch
All the snow over this past weekend brought in some good feeder birds. As
well as the usual sparrows (Field, song, white throated, Chipping) and the
occasional Purple finches, this weekend saw the first of the season Fox
sparrows (2) and the first ever feeder White crowned sparrows. It made up
for the lack of power."
White Crowned Sparrow
Dark Eyed Junco
Reported by Doug Johnston
Dec 13, 2009 – Beaver Lake
Doug Johnston and I scoped out Beaver Lake for ducks. We saw 5 Redheads (3 males), at least 4
Gadwalls, 2 Hooded Mergansers, 1 Ruddy Duck and 1 Ring-necked Duck. The previous day there were
2 Buffleheads and 2 Bonapartes gulls.
Reported by Tom Tribble
Dec 3, 2009 – Beaver Lake
Visited Beaver Lake on the 3rd and the highlight was 11 Bufflehead (3m 8f).
Sad to see one of the large dead trees that the Brown Headed Nuthatches
frequented has been taken down.. The tree was along Merrimon Ave. and not in the
sanctuary.
Nov 19, 2009 – Beaver Lake
Around noon today at Beaver lake, along with several coot, 4 Pied billed grebes, was a single horned
grebe and a couple of Gadwall.
Gadwall
Horned Grebe
I was able to spot a very cooperative Winter Wren and Hermit Thrush
at Beaver Lake on Sun. the 8th.
Nov 7, 2009 - Beaver Lake Bird Walk
A group of 11 birders, led by Len Pardue, participated in the November bird walk at Beaver Lake. The air
was cool early but the sky was bright blue and beautiful. A total of 25 birds were seen or heard. Most
were regular BL birds but we welcomed back several species that returned from either up north or higher
elevations in NC to spend a few days or even the winter with us, including Pied-billed Grebe, American
Coot, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Winter Wren, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Yellow-rumped Warbler and Whitethroated Sparrow. A highlight was a chase involving a pair of Kingfishers. After the group broke up at
10:15, I took another swing around the boardwalk and was rewarded when an angry, scolding Rubycrowned Kinglet alerted me to a Sharp-shinned Hawk perched near the second overlook. He immediately
took off but showed off for me by circling directly above for a couple of minutes.
Nov 7, 2009 – Just North of Asheville
I had a Blue Headed Vireo in my yard just north of Asheville on Sat. the 7th
along with a good number of Yellow Rumped Warblers.
I birded Beaver Lake on Sunday morning Nov 1. The 2 dozen species included the usual late fall birds
except for a single Bonapartes Gull working the lake.
Oct 30, 2009 – Hendersonville
Our Rufous Hummingbird returned to our feeder on Friday, October 30th.
She has her band on and we are having Dwayne Martin come over and
verify that she is in fact our Rufous who has been coming for five years.
Here's her picture.
Reported by Barb Morgan & Tom Morgan
Oct 23, 2009 – Beaver Lake
1 imm. Male Northern Shoveler & 2 Females
M & F Wood Ducks
30 Pied-billed Grebes
American Coot
White Throated Sparrow
Swamp Sparrow
Ruby Crowned Kinglet
Along with the rest of the regulars.
Phoebe
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker
Pied-billed Grebe
American Coot
White throated Sparrow
Grackle
And on an Ode note:
Autumn Meadowhawk
Shadow Darner
Eastern Forktail
I was at the sanctuary today from 11:00 to 12:30. Some highlights: several Chipping Sparrows, Brownheaded Nuthatch, lots of Song Sparrows, Great Blue Heron, Eastern Bluebird, Wood Duck, American
Coot, and a single Chimney Swift. I also saw my FOY Ruby-crowned Kinglets and White-throated
Sparrows.
Reported by Jamie Harrelson
Oct 3, 2009 – West Asheville
There were about a hundred chimney swifts over Vance Elementary (West Asheville) this evening. By
around 7:30, they had all disappeared into one of the school's chimneys. The largest flocks we've seen in
the neighborhood so far this year have numbered around 30, so it was nice to see so many!
Oct 3, 2009 - Beaver Lake Bird Walk
We had a nice, sunny day for the Beaver Lake bird walk on October 3rd; approximately 15 people
attended. It was relatively chilly in the morning but warmed somewhat as the morning progressed. We
saw the usual suspects as well as a few highlights. Perhaps the best birding we had all morning was
directly next to the parking area, where we came upon a flock of several warbler species: Chestnut-sided
(we all got a very good look at a beautiful male), Cape May (at least two), Tennessee, and American
Redstart (at least three). We spotted a Swainsons Thrush at the first overlook (where the vines are so
overgrown). There was a lone Pied-billed Grebe on the lake. About fifty Chimney Swifts were catching
insects over the sanctuary. Other highlights included a Red-shouldered Hawk (heard), Eastern WoodPewee, Red-eyed Vireo, Northern Flicker, Great Blue Heron, and Belted Kingfisher. We did not see any
hummingbirds; it seems most of the Ruby-throats had left this area by the day before (although WNC
reports of R-t sightings were still coming in on the Carolina Bird Club listserv on October 4th).
I went back through the sanctuary again and added Downy and Red-bellied Woodpeckers to the list.
Sep 24, 2009 – Asheville High School
The following migrant raptors were recorded at Asheville High School on Thursday, 24 September.
Broad-winged hawk – 1900
Northern Harrier – 1
Osprey – 2
Peregrine falcon – 2
American Kestrel – 1
Bald Eagle – 3
Sharp-shinned Hawk – 5
Cooper’s Hawk – 1
Red-tailed Hawk – 5
Red-shouldered Hawk – 2
Reported by Bill Sanderson
Sep 23, 2009 – Beaver Lake
Birded Beaver Lake at about 3:30 and had 2 Osprey, 1 Common Yellowthroat, 1 Solitary Sandpiper. 3
Pied-billed Grebes. Along with the regulars.
An Odonate note:
Slaty Skimmer
Blue Dasher
Eastern Amberwing
Highlight was a Shadow Darner cruising down the boardwalk.
Eastern & Fragile Forktails
Sep 22, 2009 – UNCA Campus
Heard a Great Crested Flycatcher on the UNCA campus today.
E. Wood Pewee, Chestnut Sided Warbler, Magnolia Warbler
Photographed and reported by Doug Johnston
Eastern Wood Pewee
Chestnut Sided Warbler
Magnolia Warbler
We saw an immature Bald Eagle at Beaver Lake on September 11. Unfortunately it soared high and
headed north.
Reported by Simon Thompson
Approximately twenty people attended the September 5th bird walk at Beaver Lake (total bird species:
41). Simon Thompson led the walk, which began at 8:00. The morning started out rather chilly but
warmed considerably. In addition to the birds regularly seen at the sanctuary, we had a Red-shouldered
Hawk, Northern Flicker, House Wren, Brown Thrasher, and Red-eyed Vireo. At least one Blue-gray
Gnatcatcher was spotted. A flock of perhaps fifty Chimney Swifts was active over the lake. One of the
highlights was a Great Crested Flycatcher near the beaver pond bridge. Also, we had eight different
warblers – Northern Parula, Yellow, Chestnut-sided (several), Magnolia, Black-and-white, American
Redstart, Worm-eating, and Northern Waterthrush (two or three). Migration is definitely underway!
I went back through the sanctuary after the walk had ended and got a relatively close look at the Great
Crested Flycatcher (see photo). Also, I was fortunate to come across a resting (and rather photogenic)
Ruby-throated Hummingbird.
After the official walk, Tom Tribble reported that he saw a Red-shouldered Hawk (one had been heard
earlier), Eastern Wood-Pewee, Osprey, Eastern Bluebird, and two Brown-headed Nuthatches.
Ruby-throated Hummingbird photographed by Jamie Harrelson
Great Crested Flycatcher photographed by Jamie Harrelson
Sep 2, 2009 – Beaver Lake 0900 - 1000
Apart from the regulars Pied bill grebe
Eastern wood pewee
Brown thrasher
Chestnut sided warbler
Magnolia warbler
Black throated green warbler
American redstart
Northern waterthrush (attached photo)
Summer tanager
Northern Waterthrush photograph by Doug Johnston
Sep 2, 2009 – Beaver Lake Afternoon
Solitary sandpiper at the filter pond
Solitary sandpiper phtotgraphed by Doug Johnston
4 Pied billed grebes close to the south overlook
An hour at Beaver Lake today (Sept 1) produced the following:
Canada Warbler (1)
Am Redstart (3)
Northern Waterthrush (1)
As well as the regular cast of characters.
August 27, 2009 - Beaver Lake
A Pied-billed Grebe was seen the afternoon of the 27th at Beaver Lake.
No other birds of interest spotted before the rains came.
August 25, 2009 - Simon's Yard 8 pm
Here is an update from my yard in North Asheville.
25+ Common Nighthawks flying low and feeding - more than I have ever seen before around here. Also
Black-throated Green Warblers moving through, otherwise quiet here.
I spent a little over an hour at the Beaver Lake bird sanctuary today between classes; I was there from
11:00 to 12:15. There was very little bird activity but the cicadas were going wild! They just about
drowned out all other sounds in the sanctuary. I did get a pretty good look at two warblers -- Hooded and
Black-and-white. The Blue-gray Gnatcatchers are still around. I saw only one heron -- a Green. I heard a
Great Crested Flycatcher from a distance but didn't see it. Also, I spotted a big bullfrog lunching on one of
its smaller cousins.
August 24, 2009 - Riceville Area 7:30 pm
Just before dark we had a flock of about 30 low flying Common Nighthawks feeding on insects on Old
Farm School Road at River Run Subdivision entrance (about 1 mile from Riceville Road on the Warren
Wilson College end of Old Farm School Road). Most we have ever seen at one time.
Reported by Martha Smith
August 22, 2009 - Lake Julian
At least 7 Black terns , 2 Ospreys and a cormorant at the lake this morning.
August 20, 2009 - Leicester Patch
Woke up this morning to a male Great horned owl calling close to the house. It turns out that there were
two more calling down the valley. These are the first GHO's I've had since last December. Also heard a
Screech owl calling at the same time. A fine serenade.
Migrant activity is still slower than last August. The odd Black throated green warbler and Red eyed
vireo, and the bushes had to be beaten for those. the lack of migrants is made up for by the large number
of resident young. Young cardinals are in varying stages of moult, while the parents are looking pretty
ragged also. It is possible to recognize individual birds now, which gives some indication of how many
there really are around.
August 19, 2009 - Lake Julian
Spent an hour at Lake Julian, Asheville, NC this morning and got quite a surprise:
Here are the highlights:
Black Tern (12), Forster's Tern (2)
Osprey (3), Great Blue Heron (3)
Double-crested Cormorant (2)
as well as the normal stuff
Aug 16, 2009 – Sandymush Gamelands - Bear creek access
A couple of hours spent walking down to Sandy Mush creek yielded more butterflies than birds.
Birds.
Turkey Vulture
Kestrel
Bobwhite
Mourning dove
R.T. hummingbird
R B woodpecker
Empid. sp
Blue jay
B G gnatcatcher
cedar waxwing
Prairie warbler
N cardinal
Indigo bunting
E. towhee
Field sparrow
R W blackbird
A. goldfinch
Butterflies
Eastern tiger
Spicebush
Cabbage white
Orange sulphur
Cloudless sulphur
Gray hairstreak
Eastern tailed blue
G S fritillary
Pearl crescent
Question mark
common buckeye
R S purple
Tawny emperor
N Pearly eye
Carolina satyr
Silver spot skipper
Duskywing sp
Least skipper
Zabulon skipper
Dun skipper
Little glassywing
Odontids
Powdered dancer
Dusky dancer (confirmation pending)
Ebony jewelwing
Common whitetail
Reported by: Doug Johnston, Simon Thompson
It was pretty quiet but I did see a Northern Parula and an American Redstart. The Great Egret is still
hanging around and there were at least 6 Green Herons.
On Saturday Aug 15, I birded Beaver Lake for 30 minutes before the BL work day. I saw a Worm-eating
Warbler, my first ever at Beaver Lake. Other highlights were a Black & White Warbler and a Yellowthroated Vireo. That whetted my appetite for more birding so I came back on Sunday morning, August
16th.
Aug 12, 2009 – Beaver Lake
I observed what I believe to be a Common Tern at Beaver Lake the afternoon of the 12th after the rain
had stopped. Grayish below, black cap, red legs, a very shallow fork in tail. It was out in the middle of the
lake and lighting was not the best.
Aug 9, 2009 – Weaverville
3 Canada, chestnut- sided, B&W, 4 BT Green, RE Vireo
Reported by Gail Lankford
Canada warbler
Redstart, worm-eating, Oven bird, Blackburnian, Hooded, RE Vireo, Black and White BT Green
Canada warbler, Chimney Swift, Raven
Red-eyed Vireo, Scarlet Tanagers
Aug 2, 2009 –Sandymush gamelands Cedar Hill access
A walk down to where Sandymush creek enters the French Broad river saw the following. Of note was a
large number of powdered dancers (damselflies) mating in one small area.
Birds.
Black vulture
Turkey vulture
Spotted sandpiper
Mourning dove
Chimney swift
Ruby throated hummingbird
Red bellied woodpecker
Downy woodpecker
Eastern phoebe
Blue headed vireo
Red eyed vireo
Blue jay
American crow
Carolina chickadee
Tufted titmouse
White breasted nuthatch
Carolina wren
Eastern bluebird
American robin
Black and white warbler
Eastern towhee
Field sparrow
Song sparrow
Northern cardinal
Indigo bunting
American goldfinch
Butterflies
Eastern tiger swallowtail
Cabbage white
Orange sulphur
Eastern tailed blue
Great spangled fritillary
Pearl crescent
Eastern comma
Red spotted purple
Hackberry emperor
Carolina satyr
Silver spotted skipper
Common sootywing
Swarthy skipper
Least skipper
Odontids
American rubyspot
Great spreadwing
Powdered dancers (hundreds)
Blue ringed dancer
Allegheny river cruiser
Powdered dancers
Reported by Doug Johnston, Simon Thompson
Aug 1, 2009 – Beaver Lake
Simon Thompson led the August 1st bird walk at Beaver Lake. We had a surprisingly good turnout – of
birds and people! Between 15 and 20 people attended this month’s walk and we had a total of 45 bird
species, including the typical sanctuary birds. We counted six different warblers: Northern Parula, Yellow
Warbler, Black-throated Green Warbler, Yellow-throated Warbler, Black-and-white Warbler, and Hooded
Warbler. We got a good look at the beautiful male Northern Parula, which was active in low brush near
one of the lake overlooks. A Great Blue Heron and a Great Egret flew rather low over the sanctuary within
seconds of each other. An Osprey treated us to a low flyover close to the lake. Just before exiting the
sanctuary on our way to the lake, we heard a Yellow-billed Cuckoo high above us in the trees; however,
we were unable to spot it. We also heard a Great Crested Flycatcher but did not see it. The Blue-gray
Gnatcatchers are still active; we observed a pair taking food to nestlings. Tree Swallows seem to have left
the area. A Brown-headed Nuthatch was heard in the sanctuary but not observed. A female Indigo
Bunting was spotted sitting in the top of one of the trees next to the lake.
A Red-eyed Vireo was observed in the sanctuary after the official walk had ended.
July 31 - Beaverdam Road Area
With the rainy weather, birds breeding at the middle elevations are moving downhill. In my Beaverdam
Road yard this week have been Worm-eating Warbler (daily), Black-and-white, Hooded and Blackthroated Green Warblers and Scarlet Tanager. Barn Swallows are moving south over the ridge into
Beaverdam Valley as well.
July 30 - Weaverville
Black and White BT Green
July 23 - Skyland Arden Area
On Thursday, 7/23/09, I was able to witness a mother (or could it have been father?) eating peanuts from
the feeder while the younger one waited on railing, and then the mother fed the young one with very fast
jabs into the young one's mouth, I assume bringing up food from her gullet into the young one's. It was
quite a show.
Reported by Michele Nichols
Photographed by: Peter Mudge
Pileated Woodpeckers
July 21 - Beaver Lake
Great Egret was fishing along the side of Beaver Lake on July 21- seen from Merrimon Avenue. Also
Eastern Screech-Owls have been calling for the past 3 nights here along Beaverdam Road in North
Asheville.
July 17 - Swannanoa River near Owen Park Lake, Swannanoa, NC
Great Blue Heron fishing in morning light.
Great Blue Heron
Reported and photographed by Sam Pratt
July 11 - Beaverdam Knoll, North Asheville
American Redstart
July 11 Beaver Lake- while doing a Dragonfly workshop
Swallow: Barn, Tree, Northern Rough-winged and an immature Cliff Swallow
Black-and-white Warbler, Green Heron (including 1 imm), Great Blue Heron
Jul 11, 2009 – Davidson River
I spent my Saturday afternoon hiking at the Davidson River (close to the fish hatchery near Brevard); I
thought I'd share a couple of photos I took in the area. There were lots of Barn Swallows active within the
hatchery. One pair of swallows was bringing insects to nestlings under the awning of a building. Chipping
Sparrows were feeding in the grass next to the hatchery. I spotted a Northern Waterthrush teetering at
the edge of the river in an area frequented by fly-fishermen. Several Red-eyed Vireos were singing in the
woods.
Chipping Sparrow by Jamie Harrelson
Barn Swallow on nest by Jamie Harrelson
Barn Swallow by Jamie Harrelson
July 8 - Beaverdam Knoll, North Asheville
Birds that breed locally, but don't nest on our property
Black-and-white Warbler (1), Purple Martin (1), Barn Swallow (4)
Jul 4, 2009 – Beaver Lake
About 15 of us met on a very cool morning in July (amazing!!) for what turned out to be a rather good midsummer walk.
A male Northern Parula was still singing - a somewhat scruffy bird with no tail, Black-and-white, Yellow
and Yellow-throated Warblers, plenty of Chimney Swifts and Tree and Barn Swallows feeding over the
lake as well as an early returning Great Blue Heron. The Eastern Kingbirds have fledged at least 4 chicks
and all are actively flying around calling for food from the parents. The sanctuary is full of Grey Catbirds
but the orioles may have already moved out- hard to know when they have stopped singing vigorously.
See you all in August
The July Beaver Lake walk, led by Simon Thompson, began with an unseasonably cool morning. In
addition to the common species typically found in the sanctuary, we were treated to some sightings and
songs that weren’t expected. A Great-crested Flycatcher was heard from partway around the lake; the
calls came from the forested area next to the sanctuary. We spotted a Northern Parula within the
sanctuary and caught glimpses of a Black-and-white Warbler (likely a juvenile). Chimney Swifts were
busily collecting insects over the sanctuary and swallows were very active over the lake – we spotted
Tree Swallows, Barn Swallows, and at least one Northern Rough-winged Swallow. A Great Blue Heron
flew low over the sanctuary as we watched two Yellow Warblers within a few yards of each other (one of
which was resting and preening, giving us a good rare view of a stationary warbler!). We spent a few
minutes chasing a Yellow-throated Warbler from tree to tree along the lakefront; he was spotted briefly by
some members of the group. Eastern Bluebirds were observed occupying one of the nest boxes near the
lake. We watched several Eastern Kingbirds flitting from their perches to catch insects. Dragonflies were
out en masse later in the morning, pushing their luck with so many hungry adult and juvenile birds
around! A Yellow-throated Vireo and an Orchard Oriole were both heard but not seen. A total of 40
species were heard or observed at the July walk.
Eastern Kingbird by Jamie Harrelson
Dragonfly by Jamie Harrelson
Black-and-White Warbler by Jamie Harrelson
Jun 6, 2009 – Beaver Lake
Nancy Casey and Tom Tribble led a group of 11 birders at the June bird walk at Beaver Lake. We
enjoyed a beautiful morning with temperatures in the 60s and clouds giving way to a beautiful blue sky.
The May rains have turned the sanctuary into a lush jungle, making birds sometimes difficult to see. A
total of 37 species were seen or heard, mostly regular BL breeders. We spotted at least one adult Green
Heron but the nest that produced 4 chicks last year was empty. Regular Beaver Lake visitors are afraid
that the Green Herons may have experienced failure this year. We heard Yellow Warbler, Yellowthroated Warbler and Northern Parula but despite our best efforts we were unable to get a glimpse of a
single warbler. An apparently well-fed White-breasted Nuthatch gave us an unusual view, perching
upright on a branch and preening for us. Two Belted Kingfishers chased each other over the lake and
then posed for us from their perch along the shore. The group unanimously agreed that the highlight bird
of the day – and a lifer for some – was a Yellow-throated Vireo, which gave everyone in the group a
great view.
May 13, 2009 - East Asheville
Heard/saw FOY Swainson's Thrush in my yard (E. Asheville/Beverly Hills). Also, have had a Magnolia
Warbler here 5/11-5/13 in the mornings.
Reported by Nancy Casey
May 11, 2009 - Lake Julian
The two Forster's Terns were still present along with the Fish Crows.
May 11, 2009 - Beaver Lake
Visited Beaver Lake and had two Magnolia Warblers and an imm Black Crowned Nightheron. Also
present at Beaver lake were Louisiana Waterthrush, Solitary and Spotted Sandpipers
May 7, 2009 - Fletcher Park
On an Henderson County Bird Club walk. Beautiful rain-free morning- highlights were
Willow Flycatcher, Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Baltimore and Orchard Orioles, Blue Grosbeak Warblers
include: Blackpoll, N Parula, Redstart, Yellow, Yellow-rump and a female Prothonotary. The best area
was at the back of the park after the large bridge. Continue left along the gravel walking path and over the
second bridge.
May 6, 2009 - Lake Julian
One of 2 Forster's Terns at Lake Julian on May 6- photo by Wayne Forsythe. Also present were 2
Osprey, 1 Ring-billed Gull and Fish Crow- the latter seems to be part of a small incursion this spring as
individuals have been seen at Beaver Lake as well
Forster's Tern
Red Crossbill 3 flying towards the large white pines; also Magnolia Warbler male BRP at Craven Gap and
points north included: all the regularly occuring spring birds, plus Tennessee and Prairie Warblers.
While doing our Buncombe County Migration Count on May 3 we had a flock of 8-10 Red Crossbills in the
very large white pines on the southwest side of the sanctuary. They were easily seen as you walk
towards the first platform and the large willow tree.
Other goodies seen were Chestnut-sided Warbler, Orchard Oriole, Warbling Vireo etc
May 2, 2009 – Beaver Lake
Janie Owens, with support from Len Pardue, led the May bird walk at Beaver Lake. A large group of
about 25 birders participated and enjoyed a cloudy morning, missing the rain that followed in the
afternoon. At least 42 species were seen or heard, including many of the usual permanent residents.
Chimney Swifts and Eastern Kingbirds are back since the April walk. Blue-gray Gnatcatchers are almost
tame. The Green Heron nest on the island in the filter pond is active again this year. They may have
added a couple of new sticks but it appears they just picked up where they left off last year when four
young were fledged. Catbirds returned in April and now seem to be everywhere. Migrating warblers were
in abundance and included Northern Parula, Palm Warbler, Blackpoll Warbler, Black-throated Green
Warbler and an elusive Northern Waterthrush, heard but seen by only one lucky person. Three of the
regular Beaver Lake nesting warblers were observed – Yellow Warbler, American Redstart and Common
Yellowthroat. The Yellow-throated Warblers must be on the nest as we did not see or hear them. A few
Yellow-rumped Warblers are still hanging around before heading north. A Brown-headed Nuthatch
provided an unusual view by perching on the telephone wire along Merrimon Avenue. Perhaps the
highlight of the walk were three Orchard Orioles in the trees along the lake – a mature male, a female,
and a first summer male, yellow with a black throat. The two males engaged in a singing duel to the
enjoyment of all.
I returned to Beaver Lake in the evening and saw a rare visitor – a Black-billed Cuckoo in the Sanctuary.
Reported by Tom Tribble in Jamie Harrelson’s absence.
April 30, 2009 - Beaver Lake 5pm
Only a brief visit, but every bush seemed to have a catbird and every other one a yellow warbler, To liven
things up a little, there was a blackpoll warbler as well, and the green heron is sitting tight on the nest at
the filter pond.
April 30, 2009 - West Asheville
Saw my first Rose-breasted Grosbeak today; he was eating sunflower seeds on our deck. Beautiful bird!
April 28, 2009 - Beaver Lake
This morning with my Ornithology professor and classmates. Highlights included:
Warbling Vireo - singing from the trees on the bank of the lake, just past the canoe rental.
Swainson's Thrush - seen right off the boardwalk in the sanctuary
Orchard Oriole (first spring male)
Blackpoll Warbler
Rose-breasted Grosbeak
Yellow Warblers are everywhere and Palm Warblers have been pretty common lately.
Reported by Aaron Steed
UNC-Asheville Biology Student
Asheville, NC
April 27, 2009 - East Asheville (Beverly Hills neighborhood). 11am
FOY Cape May warbler (singing male) - They were here last spring and fall as well. I think they like the
old Oak trees here.
Reported by Nancy Casey
April 26, 2009 - Sandy Mush Game Lands - Bear Creek access
Singing Prairie warblers, Field sparrows, Yellow breasted chats, Hooded warblers, Blue grey gnatcatcher,
Indigo bunting, White eyed vireos and Northern parula. Also Palm warblers and a pair of Blue headed
vireos building a nest. A great place to visit!
In addition to the usuals, had at least two Yellow Warblers this morning, as well as a Palm Warbler,
several Yellow-rumped Warblers, Pied-billed Grebe, and my first Eastern Kingbird of the year.
Reported and photographed by Jamie Harrelson
Yellow Warbler
Pied-billed Grebe
April 23, 2009 - North West of Asheville
Today I was treated to three Indigo Buntings and eight Chipping Sparrows at my feeder.
I live about 2 miles NW of Asheville.
April 23, 2009 - Beaver Lake 5:00 pm
Hooded , Black & White and Yellow warblers; Song, White Throated and Swamp sparrows, Blue grey
gnatcatchers, Ruby crowned kinglets, Cedar waxwings, Catbirds and some Rusty blackbirds are still there
with the Common grackles and Red winged blackbirds, Solitary sandpiper. The Green herons are back
on the same nest on the filter pond.
April 22, 2009 - Weaverville Nature Park
I lead a group on a birdwalk in the new Weaverville Nature Park in town - best birds were a Prairie
Warbler and 2 fly-over Purple Martins. This may be a good migration trap as the season progresses.
First Ruby-throat of the year in my Beaverdam Road garden
I missed the sandpipers and the waterthrush seen by Aaron Steed since I was there around 5 pm, but
apart from the American redstarts, Blue grey gnatcatchers and Ruby crowned kinglets that seemed to be
everywhere, also saw a Northern parula, Worm eating warbler and a large flock of Cedar waxwings.
April 21, 2009 - Beaver Lake from 2:30 - 4 PM
Osprey
Swamp Sparrow
Spotted Sandpiper (on the bank opposite the Merrimon side)
Solitary Sandpiper (2 on the gravel bed in the pond by the parking lot)
American Redstart
Palm Warbler
Waterthrush - I'm not really sure which, but I lean towards Northern... its breast had relatively dense
streaking and an ever-so-slight (possibly imagined) yellow wash
Reported by Aaron Steed
UNC-Asheville Biology Student
April 20, 2009 - Riceville Forest East Asheville
My FOY Ruby-throated Hummingbird. 3:00 pm
Reported and photopgraphed by John Weakly
Ruby-throated Hummingbird
American Redstart
Spent an hour or so at Beaver Lake today with visiting birding friend from Indiana, Bill Murphy was
collecting snail-killing flies. A beautiful day and these were the highlights as we chatted with Gwenda
Ledbetter and Tom Tribble.
Blue-winged Teal (2); Broad-winged Hawk (1); Eastern Kingbird (1); Fish Crow (1) - flew over us calling
and we then watched it perched along the boardwalk being harassed by Blue Jays. This is odd after
several sightings this past week of Fish Crows at Lake Julian. Are we witnessing an invasion?; Cliff
Swallow (1); Purple Martin (1) male; Ruby-crowned Kinglet (8+); Orange-crowned Warbler (1); Blackthroated Green Warbler (1) heard; Northern Parula (1) male; Rusty Blackbird (5+)
April 17, 2009 - Leicester Patch
3 BLACK VULTURES, 4 TURKEY VULTURES, a BROAD WINGED HAWK and an OSPREY, were
enjoying a late afternoon thermal over the house this afternoon. An interesting mix. More down to earth in
the woods around the house, there is a singing OVENBIRD and a singing BLUE HEADED VIREO. The
vireo will probably move on, but I'm hoping that the ovenbirds will stick around as they did last year.
April 14, 2009 - Fletcher Park
We had our FOTY sora in the wetlands.
Reported by Connie Ward
April 14, 2009 - Mills River
Today, Stan and I decided to try for the "wet" birds we don't get regularly at Lake Junaluska. We were
generously rewarded with lots of breaks in the showers. Added :
Greater yellowlegs; Lesser yellowlegs; Solitary
We walked around Beaver Lake this morning and enjoyed a rare few minutes of sunshine! Birds were
singing and the warblers are moving through.
Highlights included: Prairie Warbler (1), Orange-crowned Warbler (1), Northern Parula (1), Black-throated
Green Warbler (1), Yellow-rumped and Yellow-throated Warblers, Purple Martin (2) feeding over the lake,
Green Heron (1) WInter birds still around include Rusty Blackbirds (25+), Swamp Sparrow and Rubycrowned Kinglets.
April 13, 2009 - Lake Junaluska
Today was a varied day at the lake - cloudy and coolish but productive: green herons; GB herons;
ospreys; 9 ring-billed gulls; spotted sandpipers (2); blue winged teal; gr winged teal; lesser scaup;
woodies; buffleheads; loons; pb grebes (only a few left); y thr warbler; and the piece-de-resistance... a
PROTHONOTARY WARBLER in the wetlands!
Beaver Lake sightings in the rain today included: Great Egret (1); Green Heron (1); Yellow-throated Vireo
(1); Northern Parula (1 male); Yellow-rumped Warbler (10+); Rusty Blackbird (25+)
Vin Stanton saw my FOY Green Heron at Beaver Lake on Saturday April 11. My FOY Green Heron at BL
in 2008 was on Apr 12.
Reported by Vin Stanton by way of Tom Tribble
April 12, 2009 - Owen Lake
Nancy Casey, Tonya Hogan and I (Tom Tribble) saw our FOY Eastern Kingbird at Owen Park on Sunday
Apr 12. My FOY Eastern Kingbird in 2008 was on April 12. We also saw our FOY Black and White
Warbler. Interesting how often FOY birds arrive on the weekends.
April 11, 2009 - Swannanoa River near Riceville
Today was dreary but we were able to pick up a couple of Brown Headed nut hatches hanging out with
the white breasted nut hatches. A full plumage male Black Throated Green Warbler right at the front door
with a black and white warbler and blue gray Gnatcatcher. Two Red Shoulder Hawks this morning.
Swannanoa River - Riceville down stream from Warren Wilson College.
Reported by Martha Smith
April 11, 2009 - Jackson Park
The Jackson Park, Hendersonville walk was Saturday April 11- cold and overcast and not very birdy!
Highlights were: Black-and-white Warbler, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, a pair of Cooper's Hawks
What a glorious morning at Lake Junaluska. The crumby weather knocked down a lot of migraters so we
had fun watching everyone preening, head bobbing, diving, flapping, etc...
osprey, green heron, gr bl heron, bl crnd nightheron, wood ducks, greater scaup, lesser scaup,
bufflehead, blue-winged teal - 100?, shovelers - probably 50, a few remaining ruddies in good plumage,
11 loons (9 in breeding plumage, 2 winter plumed still), spotted sandpiper, yellow-thr warbler.
Reported by Connie and Stan and Bob
Vin Stanton asked me to report that he saw a Caspian Tern at Beaver Lake at about 3:00 PM on Friday
Apr 10. Vin is without access to a computer this week. I arrived as the bird was circling high and flying
north. It was clearly a tern but unfortunately I could not see the field marks at that point. Vin described
the field marks and they fit the description of a Caspian – complete red bill, black cap, tail only slightly
forked. Interestingly, Wayne Forsyth reported on the CBC list serve a Caspian Term at Lake Julian at
around 2:00 PM on April 10. Same bird? Could be.
Reported by Vin Stanton by way of Tom Tribble
I made a quick walk through the bird sanctuary at Beaver Lake this afternoon. I watched an Osprey
chase a Great Egret around the lake a few times in strong winds. The only other birds of note were a
Blue-greay Gnatcatcher and a Swamp Sparrow. There was a flock of Red-winged Blackbirds mixed deep
into the thickets that might have included some Rusty Blackbirds, but I can't tell their call apart well
enough to confirm.
Reported and Photographed by Jeff Lemons
Great Egret
Osprey
Osprey
Osprey
Osprey
April 5, 2009 - Swannanoa River near Warren Wilson College
Had an Osprey circle overhead then land on tree over Swannanoa River down stream from Warren
Wilson College this afternoon at 3:00 pm. Great Views.
Reported by Joe Meyer Riceville, NC
The April bird walk, led by Simon Thompson, began at 8:00 on the 4th; the morning was windy and chilly.
Between twenty and twenty-five people were in attendance. Part of the group started out by walking first
to the lake and then back through the sanctuary. On the lake, we saw the usual Canada Geese and
Mallards and also Blue-winged Teal, Northern Shoveler, Lesser Scaup, Common Loon, and Pied-billed
Grebe. We were treated to a show put on by an Osprey that was fishing in the lake (see photos). The
newly-arrived migrant swallows were also active over the lake; we spotted Tree Swallows, Northern
Rough-winged Swallows, and Barn Swallows. We were pleased to also hear and/or see the following
spring migrants: Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, Brown Thrasher, and Yellow-throated Warbler. In addition to the
spring migrants, we saw and/or heard the usual lake and sanctuary birds, including Great Blue Heron,
Mourning Dove, Belted Kingfisher, Blue Jay, American Crow, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy
Woodpecker, Eastern Phoebe, Carolina Chickadee, Tufted Titmouse, White-breasted Nuthatch, Brownheaded Nuthatch, Carolina Wren, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Eastern Bluebird, American Robin, Northern
Mockingbird, Cedar Waxwing, European Starling, Northern Cardinal, Eastern Towhee, Song Sparrow,
Swamp Sparrow, White-throated Sparrow, Red-winged Blackbird, Rusty Blackbird, Common Grackle,
Brown-headed Cowbird, Pine Siskin, and American Goldfinch. Our morning walk was filled with sightings
of birds of prey; in addition to the Osprey, we had Cooper’s Hawk, Red-shouldered Hawk, and Red-tailed
Hawk.
My mom, Claudia, and I spotted a Great Egret flying over the sanctuary after the official walk had ended.
Osprey
Osprey with fish
This is such a wonderful time of year... to have the surprise of northward bound visitors daily as well as to
have our summer residents returning.
Lake Junaluska today had:
raft of 45 blue-winged teal
raft of 9 shovelers
raft of 7 lesser scaup
2 loons
lingering buffleheads
The winter residents are declining... noticeably less coot and ruddy ducks now.. gulls are all gone as are
the hoodies. We didn't see the green heron, the black-crowned nightheron, or the ospreys today but we
didn't spend much time searching either.
Bob went up Cold Springs Road at Harmon Den yesterday and had bl thr green, yellow-throated
warblers, and LA waterthrush...
April 1, 2009 - Leicester Patch
A nice mixed flock this morning in the drizzle. Yellow rumped warbler, Pine warbler, Golden crowned
kinglet, Blue grey gnatcatcher (FOY) and Blue headed vireo.
March 29, 2009 - Beaver Lake
Just got back into town today after being away for 3 weeks. Walked around BLBS this afternoon and had
the following:
Osprey (1) fishing in the lake
A large flock of swallows including:
Purple Martin (1 male)
Northern Rough-winged (2)
Barn (2)
Tree (30+)
Vin Stanton and I saw a Palm Warbler at Beaver Lake. He was in the grassy area between the lake and
Merrimon Avenue.
March 26, 2009 - Swannanoa River near Walmart
Saw my FOY Rough-winged Swallow today as I came out of Aldi across from Walmart on the Swannanoa
River around 6 PM.
Reported by Janie Owens
I saw my FOY Blue-headed Vireo at BL on Wednesday morning. Also present was a Fox Sparrow.
March 24, 2009 - North of Asheville
Around 4:45 pm this afternoon I spotted an Osprey heading north along the French Broad River. This was
just north of Asheville.
This morning at Beaver Lake a Yellow -Throated Warbler was singing across the lake. I went around to
the trail and finally spotted him high up in the pine trees. I also saw a Wild Turkey land ungracefully in a
nearby pine. A Winter Wren was singing and Yellow-Rumped Warblers were in the willows.
Reported and photographed by Jenny Stanley
Yellow-Throated Warbler
Yellow-Throated Warbler
This afternoon the wetland at Beaver Lake was drained and already a Louisiana Waterthrush (? - correct
me if I'm wrong) had arrived, bobbing his tail up and down constantly. A flock of Rusty Blackbirds and
several Swamp Sparrows were also taking advantage of the mudflats. A Kingfisher was patrolling up and
down along the creek and a muskrat was "hiding" from me along the muddy wetland bank.
Reported and photographed by Jenny Stanley
Louisiana Waterthrush
Muskrat
March 21, 2009 - Leicester patch
The highlight for this past week was 5 Red Crossbills feeding on pine cones this afternoon. They appear
every once in a while through the winter months, but it's still a thrill to see them by the house. FOY Blue
Headed Vireo (20th), FOY Tree Swallows (20th), were the first migrants to appear on the patch. A good
week for sparrows, with Field, Chipping, Song and White throated singing, although the White Throated is
only a partial song. Many are also changing into spring finery, which makes for a change of view. Brown
Thrasher and Eastern Towhee have both started to sing this week, while the Pine Warbler has been
singing for a while now.
Reported and by Doug Johnston
Today at Beaver lake, a flock of 14 Scaup (I think they were Lessers, but someone with a scope might
verify), 4 Tree Swallows over the lake and around the nest boxes, several Brown headed nuthatches,
including one pair showing interest in a stump where the settling pond stream enters the lake. a Swamp
sparrow in his usual wet area between the overlooks
March 19, 2009 - Owen Park near Warren Wilson College
This Great Blue Heron was perched on dead tree limb about 8 feet above the small lake at Owen Park
near Warren Wilson College. I believe it is the same one I saw on the nearby Swannanoa River in
January but there is no way to know for sure. I got within about 60-75 feet from him. The lens I used was
a Nikon 80-400mm set on 400mm. It was about 2:30 pm when I spoted the Heron.
Photograph by John Weakly
March 15, 2009 - Hendersonville
I tried my luck at Hooper lane Sunday 3/15, present were about 100 Killdeer
in the rain filled areas of the fields, good looks at White Crowned and Savannah Sparrows,
Kestrel, and a female Northern Harrier.
The pond at the water treatment plant on hwy191 had about 10 Ring-necked Ducks and two Redhead.
Also stopped at the marshy area next to the Van Wingerden Building on hwy 191.
Among the large numbers of Killdeer were two Greater Yellowlegs.
Also present were a few Rusty Blackbirds among the many Starlings and Red winged Blackbirds.
March 15, 2009 - Leicester patch
A break in the rain today brought out my first singing Field sparrow. The Pine warblers have been in song
now for a couple of weeks. It's good to be reminded of the songs of locals before all the migrants start to
flood in next month. Flocks of Cedar waxwings are enjoying the privet berries, alongside the resident
Brown thrasher that has been around all winter.
Saw four wood ducks (2 males, 2 females) at Beaver Lake
Reported by Jenny Stanley
For the March bird walk, we were fortunate to have beautiful, spring-like weather; approximately 18-20
people attended. On the walk, we saw and/or heard the usual birds including American Crow, Mourning
Dove, Carolina Chickadee, Carolina Wren, Eastern Bluebird, American Robin, Northern Cardinal, Eastern
Towhee, Song Sparrow, White-throated Sparrow, Red-winged Blackbird, Common Grackle, Canada
Goose, Turkey Vulture, Northern Flicker, Northern Mockingbird, and American Goldfinch. We spotted a
few Rusty Blackbirds (in the sanctuary) as well as a Field Sparrow and at least one Eastern Phoebe.
Additionally, we had a Common Snipe close to the walkway on the lake (near the small stand of pines
along Merrimon). There was a Coopers Hawk close to the entrance to the sanctuary (that is, it was a
Coopers as best we could ID it from a quick fly-over and later from a distance). On the lake, we had Ringnecked Ducks and a Pied-billed Grebe. The pair of Brown-headed Nuthatches that were excavating a
cavity at the top of the dead-looking tree near the small stand of pines appeared to have chosen to
excavate instead in one of the pines. We were lucky to catch a glimpse of two Red-shouldered Hawks at
the top of a tree across Merrimon; soon after we spotted them, they engaged in an early morning public
display of affection (i.e. mating). Spring is in the air!
After the "official" walk had concluded, a couple of us Auduboners saw several Yellow-rumped Warblers
and a Ruby-crowned Kinglet close to the sanctuary.
March 5, 2009 - Brittain Cove, Weaverville
Flushed 7 Ruffed Grouse on walk in Brittain Cove, Weaverville. Also had Hairy and Pileated WPs.
The evening of the 4th, had a small group of nervous ducks at the east end. 6 redheads and 3 ring necks,
as well as a couple of pied billed grebes.
March 2, 2009 - Near Arden in South Buncombe County
Taken by Rick Wooten on his property near Arden in south Buncombe County on Monday Mar 2
Blue Birds
Photographed by Rick Wooten
March 1, 2009 - Weaverville
Liz and I had an exceptional Feeder Watch weekend with 25 species coming to our bird feeding area. A
single Red-winged Blackbird at the sunflower seed was a new sight for us. Birds eating Smooth Sumac
berries were Mockingbird, Hermit Thrush, Bluebird, Chickadee and this Phoebe.
Reported by Steve Semanchuk
Weaverville
Phoebe on Sumac
Photographed by Steve Semanchuk
February 26, 2009 - Jackson Park & Four Seasons Marsh
Made a trip down to Jackson Park, Four Seasons Marsh on 2/26 and
besides the usual birds had the following birds of interest;
Four Seasons: Pintail, Northern Shoveler, Ring-Necked duck
Jackson Park: 3 Gadwall on one of the small ponds on the inner loop trail.
Total birds seen 28
Asheville
February 23, 2009 - West Asheville -- Vance Elementary neighborhood
Here in West Asheville, we have had variable numbers of Red-winged blackbirds at our sunflower seed
feeders over the past several days. Today they have numbered between 15 and 20. Haven't ever had
that many at our feeders at one time!
Photographed by Jamie Harrelson
February 22, 2009 - Leicester
Two fox sparrows and a song on the Leicester patch.
Photographed by Doug Johnston
February 22, 2009 - Lake Julian
Made a run down to Lake Julian in Buncombe County yesterday the 22nd.
Tom Joyce of Brevard told me he had a raft of Ring-Necked Ducks with
a few Buffleheads thrown in earlier in the day. I found the raft but due to the suns glare I
was only able to make out one Bufflehead.
The highlight was a Spotted Sandpiper in breading plumage, orange bill
dark tip heavily spotted, teetering walk. It was located on the park side of the lake near the playground.
Report submitted by Vin Stanton
February 21, 2009 - Beaver Lake
Just checked Beaver Lake and the American Wigeon is still there, along with the Greater Scaup and a
pair of Ring-necked Ducks. No Tree Swallows yet!
February 21, 2009 - Deer Lake in Brevard
I discovered two Greater White-fronted Geese at Deer Lake in Brevard today. There was also a Ross's
present. Connie and Stan came down to see the GWFG which has been an elusve species for us. Pretty
exciting!
Reported by Tom Joyce
I was just at Beaver Lake as well and took a few pictures of the ducks Simon mentioned. Greater Scaup,
Ring-necked Duck, and an American Wigeon.
Photographs by Jenny Stanley
Beaver lake, late in the afternoon, still had the Greater Scaup along with a couple of Ring Necked duck, a
drake American Wigeon and over 50 Canada geese. No sign of the Red Head.
February 19, 2009 - Brevard
I had great looks at a single Tree Swallow this morning as he flew around a small pond just outside
Brevard here in the NC mountains.
I also walked around Beaver Lake today, Monday 16 doing the Great Backyard Bird Count. It was very
cold and windy, but the Redhead and Greater Scaup were still there.
A Sunday walk around the lake yielded some interesting birds. A Great Blue Heron was taking a midmorning nap in one of the sanctuary trees close to the boardwalk. There was a Red-Shouldered Hawk in
a tree on the Lake View end of the lake. Also, we spotted a Hermit Thrush in Lake View Park, close to the
sanctuary. The most notable bird, however, was a Brown Creeper that we saw off of Lake View (near the
intersection with Glen Falls). I had never seen this bird at the lake before today.
The weather was cool and cloudy; temps were between 40 and 45 degrees F.
February 15, 2009 - Warren Wilson College and Owen Park
Nancy Casey and I birded Warren Wilson College and Owen Park this morning for the GBBC. At Owen
Park we had 2 Black Ducks. I can’t remember the last time I saw a Black Duck – many years.
February 14, 2009
- Leicester
Back Yard Bird Count in the Leicester patch, yielded 4 Red Crossbills this morning. Three females and a
male. These are my first on patch for this winter, although I saw some every month last winter. Still good
sized flocks of Pine Siskins, while the numbers of Purple Finches are down to just a few. Hermit thrushes
are regular (three today) while the sparrow flocks are strong - mostly White throated, with some Field,
Song and occasional Fox. The Pine Warblers have started to sing!
February 11, 2009
- Beaver Lake
Redhead Duck - Beaver Lake
Photographed by Jeff Lemons
Rusty Blackbird - Beaver Lake
Beaver - Beaver Lake
February 9, 2009
- Leicester
A new local patch bird for me here in Leicester. There was a flock of twenty two snow geese flying NW
quite low (500ft?) this morning at around 0930. There was also a darker goose in with them. Dark wings,
light neck and head, which appeared to be slightly larger than the snows. They were calling continuously
so were hard to miss - just glad I was outside with the binoculars!
February 8, 2009
- Beaver Lake
A small group of birders met at the Beaver Lake sanctuary on Sunday, February 8th, for an outing that
was covered by an Asheville Citizen-Times photographer (an AC-T story on the Great Backyard Bird
Count is expected sometime over the next few days). Many of the same species that were spotted at the
monthly walk the day before were seen on this walk. A couple of species that were heard and/or spotted
on the Feb. 8th walk but not on the Feb. 7th walk included Black Vulture, Belted Kingfisher, Yellow-bellied
Sapsucker, and Northern Mockingbird. The flock of Rusty Blackbirds was seen again; notably, a Redwinged Blackbird was feeding in the group. We again spotted the Redhead and Greater Scaup, and
sightings of at least one Gadwall were reported by sanctuary visitors not participating in the Audubon
walk.
February 7, 2009
- Beaver Lake
The February bird walk began with a cold, sunny morning that warmed into a spring-like day. Few birds
were heard or spotted when we first set out (other than a couple of Song Sparrows and Carolina Wrens).
As the weather warmed up, the usual sanctuary birds started to become active (including American Crow,
Carolina Chickadee, Tufted Titmouse, White-breasted Nuthatch, American Robin, Eastern Towhee,
White-throated Sparrow, Northern Cardinal, Pine Siskin, and American Goldfinch). The first lake overlook
yielded few birds, as most of the water was frozen over. Likewise, the beaver dam area was mostly quiet.
As we proceeded to the lake, we spotted several Eastern Bluebirds. Also, we were able to catch glimpses
of a Hermit Thrush that was feeding along the edge of the stream. We were surprised to see, in one of
the deciduous trees close to the cluster of evergreens on the lake, a pair of Brown-headed Nuthatches
excavating a cavity for a nest. On the lake itself, we spotted the usual Mallards, as well as a Gadwall,
Redhead, and Greater Scaup (all three of which were mixed in with the Mallards). As we walked back to
the parking lot, a large flock of Rusty Blackbirds came to land in a tree close to the lake’s edge. Additional
birds either seen or heard on the walk include Mourning Dove, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy
Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Blue Jay, European Starling, Cedar Waxwing, Yellow-rumped Warbler,
Common Grackle, and many Canada Geese.
One interesting observation from the walk was of the strange behavior exhibited by a Tufted Titmouse; as
it perched in a tree, it flicked its wings and made a continuous, high-pitched noise. This behavior is
commonly exhibited by immature birds begging for food; we weren’t sure why this particular bird was
behaving in this manner on a winter day.
Thank you to Steve for leading this month’s walk, and to the almost 20 participants who braved the frosty
morning weather to do some birding!
~Jamie Harrelson
Drake Gadwall at Beaverdam Lake.
Greater Scaup and Redhead at Beaverdam Lake.
February 6, 2009 - Weaverville Area
Merlin in a dead oak tree. 57 shots through a scope to get this slightly blurry picture. Shot was taken in
the Weaverville area.
February 6, 2009 - Transylvania County near French Broad River
Stan Wulkowicz of Maggie Valley who was birding with me and his friend Connie Ward in Transylvania
County. on Feb. 6th when we discovered the Eagle along a fork of the French Broad River.
Photographed by Stan Wulkowicz
February 2, 2009
- Bear Creek
We had these grouse in the yard this morning, along with the usual purple finches and pine siskins.
Sighting was in the Bear Creek, Leicester area.
February 1, 2009
- Beaver Lake Pond
Sunday morning, I couldn't find a single duck on Beaver Lake from either of the sanctuary overlooks but
there was a medium size flock of Rusty Blackbirds at the pond including this pair of males.
January 29, 2009 - Owen Park
This Great Blue Heron was next to the Swannanoa River adjacent to Owen Park in the vicinity of Warren
Wilson College around 12:15 pm. John Weakly
Photographed by John Weakly
January 29, 2009
- Mills River Area
Pictures of the mixed flock of geese working Rt.#280 and the pond on Bryson Rd. in Mills River area. As
you all know, it is not very often, that we in the mountains are treated to such a diverse flock of geese.
Trying to get all three species in the same year can be very challenging as well. In fact, I believe that it
would be challenging to find such a diverse flock anywhere in the state. To be able to stand there and in
one field of view, see Ross's, Snow and Greater White-fronted Gooses is truly special! Wayne Forsythe
Greater White_Fronted Goose
Photographed by Wayne Forsythe
Ross's Goose
Snow Goose
January 25, 2009
This female Purple Finch sneaked in with a number of Pine Siskins and we almost didn't notice.
January 19, 2009 - Beaver Lake
Beaver Lake is mostly frozen over today except for a small area near the dam. Ducks gathered in the
open water there included the usual Mallards and hybrids, the Canvasback and Greater Scaup that have
been seen there, one Coot, one Ring-necked Duck and five Gadwalls.
Male Gadwall and Ring-necked Duck.
We began our January 3rd, 2009 bird walk at the Beaver Lake bird sanctuary gazebo at 9:00 am; Simon
Thompson led the walk. It was approximately 35°F and very foggy. We had one of the largest groups of
any recent bird walk, with more than 25 participants; several people had never before been to the bird
sanctuary. One of the first birds we spotted was a Great Blue Heron flying over. In the brushy/wooded
areas away from the lake, we saw and/or heard Blue Jays, American Crows, Downy Woodpecker, Rusty
Blackbirds, Carolina Chickadees, Tufted Titmice, Carolina Wrens, American Robins, Northern Cardinals,
Eastern Towhees, American Goldfinches, White-throated Sparrows, and a Yellow-rumped Warbler. At the
dock in the sanctuary, we saw American Coots, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Mallards, Swamp Sparrow,
and Pine Siskins. After we left the sanctuary to begin the walk around the lake, a Cedar Waxwing was
spotted next to the trail only a few feet away. On the lake itself, we saw a Wood Duck, Ruddy Duck, many
Mallards, and a Belted Kingfisher. The fog then began to lift and the weather warmed considerably. A
Red-shouldered Hawk was spotted across Merrimon Avenue. On our second stop at the sanctuary dock,
we were fortunate to see several species of ducks together, including Canvasback, Ring-necked Duck,
Greater Scaup, and Ruddy Duck. Additional species either seen or heard on the walk include Canada
Geese, Mourning Doves, Northern Flicker, Eastern Phoebe, Song Sparrows, and European Starlings.
Thanks to all those who participated in the January bird walk for either lending their expertise or
contributing interesting questions.
-Jamie Harrelson and Claudia Harrelson
Canvasback Duck - Beaver Lake
December 27, 2008
Photographer: Terry Seyden
Ring Neck Duck - Beaver Lake
December 27, 2008
Photographer: Terry Seyden
Greater Scaup - Beaver Lake
December 24, 2008
Photographer: Steve Semanchuk
Cackling Goose - Warren Wilson College
December 27, 2008
Photographer: © Todd G. Arcos
December 27, 2008
December 27, 2008
Savannah Sparrow - Warren Wilson College
December 27, 2008
Savannah Sparrows - Warren Wilson College
December 27, 2008

December 2008 through December 2009

Transcription

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