Gray, Misty, Cold, Windy.

Need more descriptors than that? We were convinced that the fog and clouds were going to be burned off after the sunrise. Not to be. Temps were supposed to be in the mid-60s, but the morning started at 51 degrees and stayed there all morning with gusting winds. No one warmed up. Not even the birds.

Our first American Robins flew over mid-morning (a week late), so there was that.

Not long after dawn, Andrew had a House Wren pop out of the grass a few yards away by Net 19. He managed to direct it around the nets in the area and back into Net 19 for our first bird of the day.



Our only other capture of the day was a Gray Catbird.



In the gloom, Wood Storks were gathering on the neighbors lawn near the marsh. Eventually, 6 juvenile birds had gathered together and trolled the shallow waters from time to time.



Most of us got closer for images as the birds stayed around all morning. This Stork seemed to be more in control of the others. More importantly, do you notice anything different? A band! We do not have a permit to band waterfowl or waders so we have sent info to the FWC to see if they know where this bird was first banded. Stay tuned.



One of the other Wood Storks seemed a bit more refined with its fluffed feathers. Adult Wood Storks have black bills, by the way.



Almost hidden in clear view, a Limpkin was preening next to the storks.



A Great Egret flew in to search the marsh near the storks, too.



As a sign of Fall, a single Maple leaf dropped quietly into the water as we got photos of the birds. Look closely and you can spot a tiny water spider to the left of the leaf.



We closed up and headed home. Mentioning Robins earlier reminded us that typically when they arrive so do the first Hooded Mergansers. Andrew found the first pair just up the road in their Winter hangout in Maitland Center.



In the adjoining pond, a Pied-billed Grebe searched for similar grub. Both birds love crayfish, tadpoles, and small fish.



The next cold front is approaching and the forecast has stayed fairly steady. Could be rain early Sunday. If the rains are present from 5-7 AM then we will not be banding. Please check the blog before deciding to join us. The call will be made by no later than 5 AM.
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Next (planned) Banding Day: Sunday, December 1st.
All nets will be opened by 6:30 A.M.