Just after sunrise this morning I was hitting the trail at Black Rock Forest. I was, of course, trying for Ruffed Grouse again; it was a total bust. The rain was relentless, the hike was difficult with slippery rocks, and there were hardly any birds – and no grouse.
Afterwards, I went home, dried off, got changed and went back out. This time to 6 1/2 Station Road Sanctuary to try for Least Bittern. The rain had finally subsided, it was a cool, pleasant walk on level ground, and yes, I got a Least Bittern. It was actually a pretty productive visit; I had nearly 40 species. I got a decent look at the bittern, as well as a low flying Virginia Rail. I was also able to confirm breeding status for (4) species: Song Sparrow, Common Grackle, Wood Duck, and Common Gallinule.
Good for you Matt! Least Bittern has been really difficult this year. I’ve only heard one. Congrats! John
PS I do see it!
Thanks so much John. This time of year to get a county bird is good too. Matt
Wow ! Loved the green heron photo and loved playing “ where’s Waldo” with your least Bittern shot . Congratulations on a productive day with great photos ( to share ) Thanks !
Happy 4th of July !
Thanks so much Liz. Coincidentally, one of my earliest blog posts was called Where’s Waldo? It was about an American Bittern that I photographed at the Bashakill https://orangebirding.com/?p=26). Thanks for checking in. Matt
I see it! I had to zoom but how cool.
Nice! Thanks for checking in Mary. Matt
I see it, I see it! Nice, Matt – so far I have only HEARD a Least Bittern and have only seen one in the distance flying AWAY ha Love your Wood Duck family image.
Thanks Deb. You need to go to the back of the Liberty Loop to get some looks at Least Bitterns. Thanks for checking in. Matt