The Cardinals are getting very active now. Three of the birds we captured were recaptured residents. They are increasing their areas of activity but some are still being caught in the usual spot (Nets 9 and 13) like this male.
A little later, this female was observed feeding near Net 7. She even perched 2 feet from the net and stared right through the mesh. Then, she flew right into it!
Our recaptured Kinglet was banded back in November. A few Kinglets are still in the area but not for long.
One recaptured female Cardinal seems to be giving Maria a bit of a problem. They pack quite a bite!
Richard began to check the boxes we set up a while ago. No one has moved in yet but we will keep an eye out. A tree fell since our last visit narrowly missing this particular box near the end of the net lane.
Fingers are crossed that the weather has broken. This was a perfect morning and it certainly seems that Spring is here, finally. Wood Ducks fly up and down the river all morning long.
Many birds are singing Springtime songs like this Carolina Wren.
Since the water is lower now, Andrew jumped the river to see if there could be a verification of a possible Short-tailed Hawk sighting. None were found but there was an observance of this Osprey continuously gathering nesting material.
The most unexpected find of the morning was this American Bittern lurking along the shore by the fishing pier.
A more distressing find was also found nearby. A turtle settles in to a feast of an invasive critter. It appears that the Armored Catfish are spreading all over the Wekiva Basin. Not good.
On a happier note, the Barred Owls are usually found reliably near what is thought to be their nest site.
Next Banding Day: Sunday, March 15th.
We will open nets around 7:00 A.M.
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