December 30, 2017

I visited Jefferson County, WV this morning hoping to stumble upon the large Horned Lark flock, I had observed earlier in the year, with the freshly fallen snow on the ground and roads as a backdrop.  As I approached the location, I immediately saw a large flock get up and fly further away from the road.  I then parked and waited the flock out hoping they would again approach the road.  After 5-10 minutes they were up again and finally settled close enough for viewing.  The flock was estimated to be ~285 in number and within the flock I finally ferreted out both a single Snow Bunting and a single Lapland Longspur.

December 24, 2017

I got out for a couple of hours this morning in the City of Hopewell.  As always it is hit or miss on what it is you can expect on any given morning at this location.  I did enjoy one “hit” as an American Redstart provided unexpected encounter.  More expected were the Orange-crowned Warblers heard and observed.  I did note one chip note this morning from a warbler I did not observe but which was not one of the ones expected but it remained hidden deep in some brush.

December 17, 2017

An male Northern Harrier provided and enjoyable encounter.

December 10, 2017

I ventured out midday due to some previous work commitments.  Some remnant snow was on some vegetated surfaces but it was short lived.  Bird activity appeared to be at a minimum but I still got to enjoy an adult Cooper’s Hawk perched in the open at Blandy Experimental Farm and a little later in the afternoon a single American Tree Sparrow west of Winchester.

December 2, 2017

I visited the City of Hopewell this morning.  Temperatures were close to freezing and a light general fog was initially over some of the area.  Birds of interest were continuing Orange-crowned Warblers (4), Blue-gray Gnatcatcher (1) and Baltimore Oriole (2 possibly 3).

Later in the day both Red-shouldered and Red-tailed Hawks presented good photographic opportunities.

December 1, 2017

I stopped by Colonial Heights, Va. this afternoon and quickly confirmed and photographed the Brant on the pond in front of the Holiday Inn.