Late Afternoon Bird Walk Report by Joe Francis
Location: DuPont Environmental Education Center/Russell W. Peterson Refuge
Date: February 18, 2024
The second monthly Peterson Refuge walk for 2024 was joined by 18 hardy observers plus two accompanying parents and included several newcomers to birding. Sunny and clear and, though the temperature reached 43 F, a steady wind made it feel cooler. Fantastic views of raptors including a dramatic Peregrine pass; luscious waterfowl in the main tidal pool near Coopers Island; and well camouflaged Killdeer resting at the edge of the mudflats. LeConte’s sparrow not seen, though it was quite late in the day when we reached its last known location. A full-sized adult beaver came to the mudflats just as the sun was beginning to set and spent considerable time foraging on the emerging aquatic vegetation and delighting the group.
See the eBird checklist here: https://ebird.org/checklist/S162117895