Mid-October Report

Cyndi and I spent a few hours in the refuge yesterday. [Tuesday, October 20]

0900-1300. The Am Flamingo was present on Mounds 1 on the way in, but was not visible later. It can be seen from the covered bench but a walk of about one mile, round trip, beginning at gate 129 will give much better views. The light from 129 is much better in the morning. Several Blue-winged Teal, a few Pintails, and both Yellowlegs were seen from the bench area. Although not present here yesterday, both Glossy  and White-faced Ibis have been here recently. Also watch for Pectoral Sandpiper, I had one here a couple of days ago.

Passerine activity was zero behind Mounds restrooms, and with the tide way out in the bay, did not expect anything at Tower Pond. Tower had one Reddish Egret, one Bl-bellied Plover, and two very distant peeps that I would bet a buck – but no more – were White-rumps. 

Continuing north on the outer levee to the south end of Mounds 3 provided the best birding of the day. One Gadwall, 3 Am. Wigeon, a few N. Shoveler, several Green-winged Teal and many more Blue-wings, dozens of S-b Dowitchers, 13 Roseate Spoonbills, and the usual assortment of herons and egrets. There were also 4 White-faced Ibis on Mounds 3; no Glossy with them.

Headquarters Pond had Green and Bl-cr Night Herons, and several Am. Coots among the C. Gallinules.

Nothing of note around the Lighthouse or in the bay, Lighthouse Pool remained utterly devoid of birds, and another Reddish Egret was on the west side of the road between the SW boat ramp and eagle nest.