QUICK POST: Every once in a while you go out looking for a specific bird and you find it. That’s what happened to me tonight when I went out to the Black Dirt hoping for Black-bellied Plovers. I had located a collection of plovers – many Killdeer and a good number of American Golden-Plovers. There were 4 plovers that were slightly larger than the AMGPs, with a noticeably more substantial bills. I was feeling pretty sure that they were BBPLs; I waited it out and eventually a couple of them took short flights, exposing the black wing pits diagnostic of BBPLs! I put out the word and Maria Loukeris and Kathy Ashman both ran for them. All three of us enjoyed good scope views of the birds, even if photos were tough. My final count was 23 American Golden-Plovers, 4 Black-bellied Plovers, and approximately 40 Killdeer. Excellent evening of birding!
Nice find on the plovers Matt!
Thanks John!
They were beautiful birds, Matt! Thanks for letting me know they were there. Good seeing you and Maria yesterday.
Yes, good looking birds for sure. Good to see you as well. Matt
Matt,
Thanks for turning me on to Black-Bellied Plovers and the Killdeers.
You should see my bird sculptures someday.
All the best,
Michael
I’m glad you checked out the site, Michael. If you have photos posted, send me a link – I’d love to check out your sculptures. Matt
Congrats on the plovers!
Do either/both species add to this year’s OC list?
Yes, the Black-bellied Plover was #203. I got #204 today with American Pipit! Matt