February 2014 sightings in Virginia and North Carolina

The following birds were observed in Virginia or North Carolina during February:

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White-fronted Goose in Charles City County, Virginia

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White-fronted Goose in Charles City County, Virginia

Always an enjoyable trip is McKay Island NWR in far northeastern N.C.  The extensive marshes are home to many species such as King Rails, Virginia Rails and American Bittern year round.

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Virginia Rail at McKay Island NWR, North Carolina

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King Rail at McKay Island NWR, North Carolina

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American Bittern, McKay Island NWR, North Carolina

The winter of 2014 found Red-necked Grebes to be present in numbers and locations not seen in many years.  The observations started in January but continued through mid-April for me.  I observed them in the City of Hopewell, Charles City County, Chesterfield County, Colonial Heights, Goochland County, Virginia Beach and Orange County.

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Red-necked Grebe- Island #1 at CBBT, Virginia