Trip Leaders: Chris Bennett & Anthony Gonzon
Location: Indian River Inlet
Date: Saturday, November 16, 2024
Trip recap & photos by Carolyn Holland
Sanderlings by Carolyn Holland.
Sheltered from the strong 15-20 mph NW winds near the base of the sand dunes and behind a huge dump truck parked on the beach, we were able to scan the ocean and skies for sea birds while enjoying the warmth of the sun on a clear day with temperatures in the 50s.
Northern Gannets were the most numerous, migrating far offshore with a few coming in closer for better looks or diving for fish while a couple floated on the water, apparently resting after having eaten their fill. A mixed flock of Sanderlings and Dunlin moved about in front of us feeding along shore near the incoming waves and on the rocks along the inlet as the tide went out. We observed several Ruddy Turnstones on the north jetty, but did not find any Purple Sandpipers this time. While we saw Common Loons, a few Red-throated Loons, Black Scoters, and Surf Scoters swimming and diving in the water. Many ducks were flying over the ocean offshore.
Our watch was rewarded mid-morning when Chris called out two first winter male Common Eiders flying south fairly close to shore, the thick white bands on their breasts distinctive. A late Common Tern stood on the beach & posed for photos with Sanderlings & a Great Black-backed Gull for an interesting size comparison. All in all, a most enjoyable morning with two more opportunities remaining to join a sea watch:
Sea Watch II on February 1, 2025 at 8am-12pm
Sea Watch III on March 22, 2025 at 8am-12pm
The eBird checklist for Sea Watch I can be found here: https://ebird.org/checklist/S202664803
Great Black-backed Gull (left background), Sanderlings (group),
Common Tern (front center) by Carolyn Holland.