Where Did The Ducks Go?

This is a very small sample size from which to draw any conclusions, but on my last three trips into the north and south ends of Mounds #3, duck numbers and diversity have declined considerably. Up until about a week ago, duck numbers and diversity in those locations were steadily increasing; that trend has sharply reversed. Also missing were Plegadis ibis, which had been reliable on the north end. Decent duck numbers and shorebirds, including five Am Avocets on south end, are still present, so it is worth visiting. I have not been to Stony Bayou #2, so perhaps birds have shifted there.

The Am Flamingo was in the north end of Mounds #3. Walk in at the T-dike (gate 130), go left and walk around the north end of the pool and look south; the views are distant and backlit for much of the day. It is possible the bird may be seen by walking right at the T if it positions clear of intervening vegetation. This would be a shorter walk, but I have not tried it and can’t verify the view.

Another birder sent me a photo of the Vermilion Flycatcher that was shortly after bumped from its perch by a Wester Kingbird ( also photo’d). Interesting change of the guard. This was on the yaupon island in SB#1 adjacent to lighthouse road near the water control structure.