Catbirds Getting Restless

Fog settled in as we began to set nets but it burned off fairly early on after sunrise. We haven't been seeing or hearing many Catbirds the past few weeks, but today they were beginning to stir as migration nears.

Our first bird of the morning was the juvenile Carolina Wren that escaped us last week where it was netted next to its sibling.



Another recaptured Carolina Wren soon followed.



Speaking of Gray Catbirds, we finally caught one for the first time in weeks. One escaped down the lanes and many other were seen hopping from branch to branch all over the property.



We then recaptured a male Northern Cardinal which was first banded last Summer.



Just behind the the table, a Web Bow was illuminated by the morning rays.



All of the Holly trees that Richard planted years ago are in bloom.



We got a new Brown Thrasher in the "Thrasher Zone", a specific radius where we always see this species.



What are birds? Dinosaurs! Just look at those feet.



We caught another Gray Catbird as our final banded bird today. None of the Catbirds are showing any signs of fat deposits yet. Better get bulked up before the long trip home, guys.



Northern Parula are getting noisy again as they forage. By the end of the month we should be hearing hungry chicks.



Christine spotted a Monarch down by Net 22. It remained in that area for the rest of the morning. Perhaps it is the same critter that was feeding on our Milk Weed?



We were serenaded by a crying Limpkin as we prepared to fold up nets.



Migration is beginning and we hope to get some interesting birds next week. A Northern Waterthrush came close to the nets but remained along the water of the Little Wekiva. Fingers crossed.
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Next (planned) Banding Day: Sunday, April 14th.
All nets will be opened by 6:30 A.M.