April 24, 2008 [LINK / comment]
A few more spring arrivals
The temperatures climbed into the upper seventies today, and I took advantage of the improved weather conditions by taking a stroll behind the Staunton-Augusta Rescue Squad this morning. There were a few first-of-season sightings, not as many as I had hoped, but at least I got some video shots. Purple finches are still abundant almost everywhere you go. Today's highlights:
- Purple finches (F, M)
- Goldfinches (M, F)
- Cowbirds (F, M)
- Towhees (M)
- Yellow-rumped warblers (M, F)
- Blue-gray gnatcatchers
- Black vultures
- Blue-headed Vireo (FOS)
- Black & white warbler (FOS)
- Broad-winged hawk (FOS)
ABOVE: Blue-headed vireo, formerly known as a "Solitary vireo." I am dubious of the new name. (video freeze frame)
Upon entering the campus of Sweet Briar College yesterday morning, I took a few minutes to check out the nature sanctuary, and got lucky almost immediately:
- Louisiana waterthrush (FOS)
- Pileated woodpecker
- Wood thrush (FOS)
I also heard but did not see a Scarlet tanager in the tree tops. On Sunday morning, I saw my first Worm-eating warbler of the season, in the same location. Chimney swifts are now seen fairly regularly up in the skies. Based on all the recent "first-of" sightings, I have updated the Annual arrival page.